Slabs are quickly becoming a popular form of wood that homeowners are requesting for tables, custom furniture, and even decorative wall art. Woodworkers are also developing techniques to maintain the unique aspects of slabs; even more so if it’s a live-edge slab. As beautiful as slabs are they do present some challenges that require special techniques.
Wood slabs without live-edge are like any wide piece of wood and require virtually the same technique to finish. So, if your project only involves this, then you’re set! On the other hand, if you’re going to be using live-edge slabs, slabs with pecky character, or even ones with deep gouges, then following the simple steps outlined below will help you finalize the amazing piece you’ve been dreaming about.
Step-By-Step Guide For Live-Edge Wood Slabs.
If you want a guide on how to build a slab table from start to finish, take a look at our Wood Slab Table DIY guide.
Step 1: Sanding
If you’re thinking “ok, let’s get these cracks and openings filled up” as the first thing to do, stop. The first thing to do is to begin sanding to a smooth touch using 120-grit paper. This sanding will reveal any checks that should be addressed prior to doing anything else.
Now, if you’re planning on finishing your wood with something other than a clear coat, apply some of that finish to the side that won’t be visible. This will give you an idea of the finished color your slab will have which will come handy in the next step.
Step 2: Fill in the Voids
If there are large voids like in the case of pecky woods, then the best option is to use a two part epoxy such as the West System Epoxy to fill all the voids. If you’re planning on finishing up your slab with a stain, go ahead and find a color additive to the epoxy so it will match the rest of the slab once it’s finished.
It’s important to remember that if the voids go through the entire slab, such as in the case of big root growth, or knots that go through the entire slab, then apply masking tape or putty on the non-visible side of the slab prior to applying the epoxy. Epoxy is a thick liquid that can flow in and through the cracks preventing it from hardening. Don’t worry if you spilled any epoxy or if it over flowed, the final sanding will take it right off.
Step 3: Finishing up
Let the Epoxy sit until it’s hardened. Take your sander and begin working on the slab until reaching a smooth feel. This can be up to a 400 grit paper. This will help make the entire surface even despite the epoxy that you applied.
Once you’ve done this, you’re ready to fully finish your slab with whatever stain or clear coat you desire and add legs for a table, or cable for hanging, or whatever else you want to do with it.