Mesquite Live Edge Tables - The Rustic Allure of Natural Wood Furniture

Mesquite Live Edge Tables - The Rustic Allure of Natural Wood Furniture

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The Beauty of Mesquite Live Edge Tables

Mesquite live edge tables have become increasingly popular over the past few years. The rugged natural style and unique look of these wood tables make them a gorgeous addition to any home. In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about mesquite live edge tables - from what makes them special, to how to care for them, to where to find these stunning pieces of furniture.

What is a Live Edge Table?

A live edge table is a table made from a solid slab of wood that has been cut so that the natural edge of the tree is left intact in at least one portion of the table. This retains the organic shape and lines of the tree's exterior and creates a beautiful abstract pattern along the table's edge. The live edge showcases the wood's natural grain, knots, holes, and imperfections for a one-of-a-kind look.

Live edge tables are most commonly made from tree species like walnut, maple, pine, eucalyptus, oak, and mesquite. The slab is cut from the tree so that the outermost edge forms a portion of the table's surface or leg. The live edge is sanded and finished but left otherwise untouched to display the raw, natural contour of the tree.

The Unique Properties of Mesquite Wood

Mesquite is an ideal wood for live edge tables. Mesquite trees are abundant in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. The wood has a beautiful reddish-brown hue and an extremely hard density. This makes it very durable and resistant to scratches, dents, and wear and tear. Mesquite has a natural resistance to rot and insects thanks to its high tannin content.

Mesquite has striking grain patterns and coloring. Each slab of mesquite has a completely singular look in terms of knots, whorls, holes, and stripes. When used in a live edge table, these individual characteristics stand out for a one-of-a-kind focal point. The mesquite's colors and grains pair wonderfully with both rustically decorated and contemporary styled homes.

In addition to its resilience and decorative appeal, mesquite wood has a faint aromatic scent reminiscent of cinnamon and cloves. This provides a lovely subtle fragrance to indoor spaces where mesquite furniture is used.

Crafting Mesquite Live Edge Tables

Creating a mesquite live edge table takes skill, time, and care. First, the mesquite slab must be cut from the tree. This is done by experienced sawyers to properly locate and extract a section of trunk or limb that will work well for a table surface. The slab is cut 2-3 inches thick to maintain stability once the table is complete.

Next, the mesquite slab is kiln-dried to remove moisture from the wood. If the live edge slab was not properly dried, it could crack or warp once in use as a table. The live edge is then sanded smooth, but only minimally to maintain its natural shape and texture. The slab may be coated with a clear epoxy resin to fill any holes or cracks and strengthen the piece.

The mesquite live edge cutout is framed with legs typically made from steel or additional mesquite wood. The legs must be able to support the slab's significant weight. The table's base may include further mesquite elements like shelves, side supports, or bottom stretcher bars.

Finishing oils and waxes are rubbed into the sanded live edge to enrich the mesquite grain and protect the surface. A matte or satin polyurethane is added last to seal and maintain the wood’s natural look. With proper drying time between steps, a beautifully unique live edge table emerges!

The Allure of Mesquite Live Edge Tables

Mesquite live edge tables have an inherently eye-catching look. The sweeping contours of the raw wood are accentuated by the mesquite's varied grains and colors. The solid slab conveys a sense of sturdiness and permanence. Each table top has an entirely singular pattern based on the tree it came from.

The natural shape of the live edge gives the table an organic feel that contrasts beautifully with the clean lines of the metal or wood base. The fusion of the refined base and raw tree edge creates an intriguing blend of natural and industrial elements.

No two mesquite slabs are alike, so each table is fully one-of-a-kind. The wood's colors range from warm honey browns to ashy greys marked by black and brown lines and swirls. The sculptural shape of the edge embodies the tree's natural growth patterns in a gracefully imperfect way. Every knot, hole, crack, and contour tells the mesquite's unique story.

In addition to being visually captivating, mesquite live edge tables also appeal through their tactile qualities. The sanded and waxed tree edge begs to be touched and traced while the sleek base provides contrast through its smoothness. The weighty solid slab makes the table seem substantial and permanent.

Incorporating Mesquite Live Edge Tables

Mesquite live edge tables infuse any space with natural warmth and organic texture. They make exceptional dining tables, coffee tables, console tables, work desks, and bar height tables. Their sculptural look serves as an integral part of your interior design rather than merely a utilitarian piece.

The layered colors and sweeping contours of the mesquite edge ensure it will be a standout focal point wherever used. Allow the table to take center stage with minimal accessories and décor items. Select seating, cabinets, and shelves in solid colors to prevent competing with the table top's busy patterns.

Soften the live edge table in cottage style rooms with pastel painted chairs and woven placemats. Play up the organic vibe with flower centerpieces and natural fiber area rugs. In industrial and urban rooms, pair the table with metal bar stools and pendant lighting. The Pop Art style brightly painted walls make an eclectic match for these natural woodstatement pieces.

Outdoor mesquite live edge tables should be shielded from rain and direct sun when not in use to keep the slab from cracking. Use an epoxy resin coating and sealed metal legs suitable for outdoor temperatures and humidity.

Caring for Your Mesquite Table

With proper care and maintenance, a mesquite live edge table can last for many years as a beloved furniture piece. Keep the table out of direct sunlight to prevent bleaching and drying out of the wood. Use coasters under glasses and placemats under dishes to prevent moisture damage.

Wipe up spills immediately to keep the mesquite from staining or warping. Clean the table every few weeks with a soft lint-free cloth and gentle cleaner safe for finished wood. Refresh the finish yearly with polish or wax made for mesquite wood.

Avoid harsh cleaners, abrasive pads, or scrubbing that could mar the surface. Lift objects to move them over the table rather than dragging them across the slab. Rotate large accessories or placemats periodically to prevent uneven color changes from light exposure.

If the table will go unused for an extended period, cover it with a breathable cloth or buy a fitted table cover. Maintain consistent indoor temperatures and humidity levels year-round. Repair any cracks quickly with mesquite-tinted wood filler to prevent moisture getting inside the slab.

Finding the Perfect Mesquite Live Edge Table

Searching for a mesquite live edge dining table or coffee table for your home? You can often find pre-made mesquite furniture from specialty stores focused on natural edge pieces. Custom ordering through a woodworker allows you to customize the slab shape, base style, and dimensions to suit your space.

Be sure to ask about the drying and finishing process when inquiring with furniture makers. A reputable company will carefully kiln-dry the slab to prevent future cracking. They should also use food-safe finishes like wax or polyurethane sealants.

Examine the joint where the mesquite slab connects to the base. High quality tables have a seamless transition that shows skilled craftsmanship. The base should feel sturdy and capable of readily supporting the slab's weight.

For a unique DIY project, you can purchase a raw mesquite edge slab and make your own live edge table. Take care to smooth and properly seal the wood yourself. Be sure to choose legs or a base adequate for the hefty slab size.

With its graceful natural shapes, varied warm hues, and gorgeous grain patterns, it's easy to fall in love with a stunning mesquite live edge table. Let this beautiful woodwork become the anchor piece in your home, whether placed in a casual family dining nook or an upscale executive office. The organic allure of the mesquite slab transforms any room into a chic, inviting space.

FAQs

What are the benefits of a mesquite live edge table?

Mesquite live edge tables offer stunning visual appeal with their naturally shaped wood slabs and unique grain patterns. Mesquite wood is also very durable and resistant to scratches, dents, rot, and insects. The mesquite grain has beautiful warm reddish-brown coloring and a faint aromatic fragrance.

How durable is mesquite furniture?

Mesquite is an extremely durable and resilient wood. Its dense properties and natural oils make it very scratch, dent, and wear-resistant. It also resists rot, cracks, and insect damage well due to its tannins and hardness. With proper care, a mesquite table can last for decades.

What maintenance does a mesquite table need?

Basic maintenance steps will keep a mesquite table looking its best. Use coasters, placemats, and tablecloths to prevent moisture damage. Dust and clean the table every few weeks with a soft cloth and gentle wood cleaner. Wax or polish the table once or twice a year. Avoid harsh cleaners, scrubs, and dragging items across the surface.

Can you use mesquite tables outdoors?

Mesquite is suitable for outdoor use when properly protected. Choose a table with metal legs meant for outdoor temperatures. Make sure the mesquite slab has been sealed with an outdoor-grade epoxy resin. Keep the table covered or under shelter when not in use to prevent damage from moisture and sunlight.

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