How to Chose the Right Live Edge Furniture


By Austin Gregory September 28, 2025

Why Live Edge?

Live edge furniture preserves the natural edge of the tree, highlighting its unique grain, shape, and character. Each piece feels organic and handcrafted — no two are alike.


 Key Factors to Consider

  • Furniture Type
  • Dining Tables → centerpiece of the home.
  • Coffee/End Tables → accent pieces that spark conversation.
  • Bar Tops → rustic yet modern look for kitchens or commercial spaces.
  • Bedroom Furniture → headboards, benches, nightstands.
  • Outdoor → durable hardwoods for patios and cabins.
  • Wood Species
  • Walnut → rich and elegant.
  • Maple → bright and versatile.
  • Cherry → warm reddish tones.
  • Oak → rustic and strong grain character.
  • Finish Options
  • Natural oil → highlights grain, softer sheen.
  • Polyurethane → higher gloss and durability.
  • Epoxy accents → blend live edge with modern resin.
  • Base & Hardware
  • Steel bases → sleek, industrial.
  • Solid wood bases → fully rustic look.
  • Custom bases → tailor design to fit home décor.

 Live Edge Furniture: Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • One-of-a-kind statement piece.
  • Works in rustic, modern, or luxury settings.
  • Highly durable when kiln-dried and sealed.
  • Can be designed for any room type.

Cons:

  • More expensive than standard furniture.
  • Requires ongoing care (oils, conditioning).
  • Some natural cracks/knots are part of the design.

 FAQs

Q: How do I care for live edge furniture?
A: Simple care — dust regularly and reapply oil finishes every 6–12 months. In 
Charlotte, Asheville, and Charleston, this helps combat humidity.

Q: Will my live edge table crack or warp?
A: Not if it’s kiln-dried and properly sealed. At Rustic River Designs, every slab is stabilized before use.

Q: Can live edge furniture work in modern homes?
A: Absolutely. Paired with steel or minimalist bases, live edge blends seamlessly with contemporary design.

Q: What’s the price range for live edge dining tables?
A: Most custom builds range from
 $2,500–$8,000+, depending on wood species, size, and base.

 Next Step

Live edge furniture is about bringing nature into your home with elegance and durability. Rustic River Designs can help you select the perfect wood slab and base for your home in Charlotte, Asheville, Greenville, or beyond.

 Request a slab viewing or design consultation today.


Custom Live Edge Furniture & Epoxy Designs in NC 

Handcrafted dining tables, bar tops, and slabs — built to last and designed to stand out. Serving Asheville, Charlotte, and the Southeast.


Follow Rustic River Designs on Instagram

See our latest live edge tables, epoxy creations, and custom wood projects. Get daily design inspiration and behind-the-scenes looks at the shop.

SHARE THIS

Latest Posts

By Austin Gregory September 28, 2025
Why Care Matters Live edge furniture is built from natural slabs of hardwood — each piece is unique and full of character. Proper care keeps the wood strong, prevents cracking, and maintains the natural beauty for generations.
By Austin Gregory September 28, 2025
Why Care Matters Epoxy river tables are built to last for decades — but like any custom furniture, they need simple, consistent care to stay looking their best.
By Austin Gregory September 28, 2025
The Basics Kiln-Dried Slabs : Lumber that’s dried in a controlled chamber (kiln) with heat and airflow. Air-Dried Slabs : Lumber that’s dried naturally over time, typically outdoors or in storage.
By Austin Gregory September 28, 2025
The Basics Epoxy River Tables : Blend live edge slabs with colored or clear resin, creating a “river” effect. Live Edge Tables : Use natural wood slabs with preserved edges, no epoxy filling.
By Austin Gregory September 28, 2025
Why an Epoxy River Table? Epoxy River tables combine natural live edge wood with custom resin designs, giving you a one-of-a-kind piece that's both functional and artistic.