From Tree to Treasure: The Elegance of Live Edge Panels

How Live Edge Panels Are Prepared

The journey from tree to panel involves meticulous craftsmanship, ensuring each piece is both functional and visually stunning. Here’s a step-by-step look at how a raw slab transforms into a polished live edge panel:

Cutting and Flattening
First, walnut logs are sawn into horizontal sections to create wide boards while preserving the natural edges. These rough slabs are then carefully planed and flattened, ensuring they retain the tree’s unique contours while being prepared for further work.

Kiln Drying
After cutting, the panels undergo kiln drying. This process is essential for achieving the appropriate moisture content, which ensures the wood’s stability and reduces the likelihood of warping or cracking over time. Additionally, kiln drying eliminates any pests or bugs present in the wood, resulting in a clean and safe material for your home or workspace.

Finishing Touches
Once dried, the panel is sanded, treated, and often sealed with oil or epoxy. These finishing steps enhance the wood’s natural beauty while providing a durable, protective surface. By the end of this process, what begins as a rough slab transforms into a polished panel, ready to shine as a centerpiece in any home or office.

The Unique Features of Live Edge Panels

Live edge panels showcase the raw beauty of nature. Each one tells a story through its distinctive features, which include:

Natural Edges
The live edge captures the organic contours of the tree, introducing a one-of-a-kind design element to each piece.

Heartwood and Sapwood
Panels often highlight the striking contrast between the dark, rich tones of the heartwood and the lighter hues of the sapwood. This interplay adds depth and visual interest to the material.

Character Marks
Knots, grain patterns, cracks, and even occasional bug holes contribute to the personality of each panel. These imperfections make every piece truly unique and full of character.

A Shift in Perspective for Customers

By framing live edge walnut as “panels,” we encourage customers to view these pieces as more than raw materials. Instead, they are:

Functional Art
Panels are not just wood; they form the foundation for creating bespoke furniture and statement pieces.

Aesthetic Features
The term “panel” highlights the craftsmanship involved in preparing the wood for use, encouraging appreciation of its artistic and functional qualities.

Premium Products
Referring to them as panels reinforces their high-quality, polished image. It aligns perfectly with the luxury status we aim to convey.

Why It Matters

Language shapes perception, and perception shapes value. By choosing “panel” over “slab,” we elevate the status of live edge walnut, underscoring its elegance and versatility. This subtle rebranding helps customers see these pieces not merely as raw materials but as refined, ready-to-use components for exceptional furniture and design.

Conclusion

In our workshop, we believe every detail matters—even the words we use to describe our materials. Calling live edge walnut a “panel” reflects our commitment to quality and craftsmanship. It also offers customers a fresh perspective on this beloved material.

If you’re ready to explore our selection of live edge walnut panels, we’d love to help you find the perfect piece for your next project. Experience firsthand the difference a simple change in language can make, and discover the refined beauty of live edge panels today.

Contact Jenkins Artisan Woodshop now, or visit our Facebook page to get started on your journey to exceptional craftsmanship and happiness!