FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT SIZE DINING TABLE DO I NEED?
Sizing is the most common question we get. They're are no hard rules here, and a lot can depend on chair size, but in general you should allow for approximately 24" of width for each person at the table and 12" of depth for their knees underneath. If you plan on king and queen seating (people on the ends) add 12" to the length. For example if you'd like to seat 8, 3 people on each side would be 72" plus 12" on each end would equal 96" in total length.
Standard width is approximately 40" - a little narrower for smaller tables and wider for bigger tables. Width can vary significantly for live edge furniture so there are times where a slab may dictate that its a bit narrower in spots. In general, 36" of width is the minimum width to allow 2 people to dine on each side with enough room in the middle to accommodate serving dishes. If the table becomes wide enough (~48") you can seat someone in the king and queen position and have guests seat all the way to the ends of the table, or seat 2 people on each end but provide the 12" of knee space. In other words a 96" x 48" table would then comfortably seat 10.
WHAT TYPES OF WOOD DO YOU HAVE?
We specialize in California Black Walnut - commonly referred to as Claro Walnut. It grows abundantly in Northern California, the trees grow large in a relatively short time, and the wood is perfectly suited for dining tables - both from a work-ability and stability standpoint. Besides...it's absolutely gorgeous.
We also salvage other local hardwoods including Madrone, Bay Laurel, Oak, Mappa Burl, Black Acacia and Elm if you're interested in something a little different or with a different color tone. Please inquire within to see availability.
WHATS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A 2 SLAB BOOKMATCH AND SINGLE SLAB?
The most common table style we sell is a 2 slab bookmatch. A bookmatch is when you take 2 successively cut slabs from the same tree, remove the live edge from one side, flip one open like a book and then join the two pieces together. When you do this the grain and live edge shape is mirrored down the middle. It's a visually pleasing effect and allows us to create a single seamless top from two smaller slabs. A 2 slab bookmatch also allows for greater control over the overall width of a live edge top. By selectively cutting on the inside seam you can more easily keep the width within a certain range.
A single slab is fairly self explanatory - a whole table top made from a single piece of wood from a much larger tree. A single slab table is generally more expensive as the trees are more rare and the equipment to process the slabs is much more expensive and time consuming. A single slab will produce a stunning statement piece with continuous grain running through the whole piece. However it often requires trimming portions of the live edge to fit within width guidelines.
WHAT TYPE OF FINISH DO YOU USE?
We offer two types of finishes on our tables: a film finish and an oil/wax finish. Both have advantages and inherent disadvantages.
A post catalyzed conversion varnish (CV) film finish is a spray finish that is one of the most durable and hard finishes available. Extremely water and heat resistant it still retains the look and feel of natural wood and is an excellent finish for restaurants or homes that will be using the table a lot. However durable, a CV finish can be more difficult to repair should it get dented or scratched and a complete refinishing of the top can only be achieved from a spray professional.
A oil/wax finish is a hand rubbed oil finish that leaves a wonderful silky smooth look and feel while offering protection and durability and will protect against spills and hot/cold plates. Perhaps best of all it is easy to repair and maintain. In the event of damage, the finish can easily be spot repaired at home with no overlap marks. Should the finish begin to dry out over time, it is easy to simply bring it back to life by apply more finish. It is food-safe, no VOC and derived from natural plant oils and waxes so its easier on the crew and the environment.
HOW DO YOU HANDLE CRACKS, KNOTS, ETC?
Cracks and larger knots/voids are a common occurrence in large slabs. Often cracks will occur in the slab as it seasons as the slab is releasing tension in the wood grain. This is why slabs are air dried first - as slow as possible - to minimize future cracks from opening up. Unless otherwise discussed, cracks and voids will be filled with black epoxy which stabilizes it and prevents it from further movement and creates a smooth even surface.
WHAT IS YOUR LEAD TIME?
Running a small custom woodshop means that lead times are often longer than what you may be used to. Lead times are typically 8 weeks from when an order is placed but can sometimes be longer than that. We accept and schedule orders as they come in but unforeseen obstacles can sometimes cause us to run behind. Rest assured that we are diligently working on orders and will keep you abreast of any updates on you project.
HOW DO YOU SHIP TABLES? CAN I GET SOMEONE TO DELIVER AND SETUP IN MY HOME?
We regularly and successfully ship large table tops all over the country. Each table is carefully packaged and secured safely inside a custom built crate. Our standard shipping is LTL Freight which will deliver the crate curbside to your residence. Some larger tables may require additional services to unload from the truck.
White glove delivery is also available for an additional fee. White glove delivery will deliver the crate, open and unpack your table, transfer and set up inside your home, and remove the crate and all packing materials. Easy Peasy.