Replies

1. 
   Lilshaver | Feb 19, 2005 07:02am | #1

   I have successfully used super glue. Use a combination of the thin stuff and some of the thicker/gap filling glue. I get my glue at a hobby shop. The glue will saturate the porous bark and give it a wetted look. You can finish as usual. As always, I'd recommend a trial on some scrap.

2. 
   Dale | Feb 19, 2005 07:35am | #2

   I have always understood a " live edge" is an edge of a piece of wood like it was found on the tree, without the bark???  Been wrong before and will be wrong again........Dale

3. 
   ring | Feb 19, 2005 02:11pm | #3

   Over the years I've done many tabletops with a "live edge" and never had a problem after they left the shop.  But the key is to remove anything that is likely to come off by itself in the future. 

   My experience with European white oak is that you need to peel the bark off and then sand and finish the layer that is left underneath.  On the other hand, teak usually has a very tight bark that will not cause problems.  But if it feels like it might come off, it probably will.

   I think you'll find that even after taking the loose bark off you still have a natural, contrasting outer edge.  And some species like padauk are just crying out to leave that beautiful white layer intact.

   Check that outer layer really carefully for the worms and other insects that really love it.  You've got to be 100% sure that it's not infected before you ship that furniture to the customer.  Good luck.

   DR

    

4. 
   Timberwerks | Feb 19, 2005 04:35pm | #4

   I'm working on my third live edge coffee table. I remove the bark to expose the natural curved edges. I build contemporary furniture and this approach suits the style well. To me leaving the bark on is a more rustic style. It depends on the look your after.

    

   Dale

5. 
   forestgirl | Feb 19, 2005 09:04pm | #5

   If memory serves, the bark is more likely to stay with the tree if the tree is cut in the winter.  I know a couple of people have posted on this in the past.

   forestgirl -- you can take the girl out of the forest, but you can't take the forest out of the girl ;-)
   Another proud member of the  "I Rocked With ToolDoc Club" .... :>)