Between The Grain - Blog
From Slab to Statement: The Journey of Handcrafted Wood
A raw slab of wood holds endless possibilities. With skill, patience, and vision, artisans transform it into furniture that lasts generations. Here’s how a simple slab becomes a refined masterpiece at The Wood Reserve.
The Story in Every Grain: Appreciating Wood’s Natural Beauty
Every piece of wood is unique. From subtle swirls to bold streaks, wood grain carries character, history, and personality. At The Wood Reserve, we celebrate these natural details that make each piece of furniture one-of-a-kind.
The Pros and Cons of Live Edge Furniture
Live edge furniture blends nature with design — but it’s not for everyone. Here’s the honest breakdown.
Pros
✔ One-of-a-kind character
✔ Natural curves and movement
✔ Works beautifully in modern or rustic homes
✔ Showcases the raw beauty of real hardwood
Cons
✘ Higher cost
✘ More variation (which some love, others don’t)
✘ Slightly harder to pair with very minimalistic spaces
If you want a statement piece that feels organic and artistic, live edge is unbeatable.
How to Design a Custom Dining Table
If you’re designing a custom dining table, here are the decisions that matter most:
1. Size & Seating Capacity
Rule of thumb:
– 22–24” per person
– 36–42” table width for comfortable dining
2. Shape
Rectangle, round, or oval — each changes how people gather.
3. Wood Species
Walnut for luxury, oak for durability, cherry for warmth.
4. Base Style
Trestle, pedestal, four-leg — your room layout determines what works best.
5. Finish
Matte, satin, natural, stained — finishes set the tone of your space.
A dining table is where life happens. Make it right.
The Difference Between Solid Wood, Veneer, and MDF
Furniture shoppers often see “wood” used loosely — so here’s what each term really means.
Solid Wood
– Made of real hardwood
– Longest lifespan
– Can be refinished
– Strong and durable
Wood Veneer
– Thin layer of real wood over a core
– Quality varies widely
– Can look like solid wood but isn't refinishable
MDF / Particle Board
– Made from wood fibers or chips
– Affordable
– Not moisture-resistant
– Shorter lifespan
In short: solid wood is an heirloom investment; veneer is an aesthetic compromise; MDF is a budget option. Know what you’re paying for.