My $55 Live Edge Desk

Submitted by jrbamberg on Tue, 10/21/2014 - 11:22

Built using the plan except for removing the back angle supports and creating a top that resembles a live edge look.  Most of the build is done with pocket hole screws, glue and nails. 

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
I had most of the wood except for the 1x12's which cost around $15. Screws and nails were all under $10. Took a long time to put together but most of that time was spent on the edging rather than the actual building. Sanding took a long time as well.
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
I used a quick dry (1 hr) oil stain and then a quick dry water-based poly.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

JoanneS

Tue, 10/21/2014 - 18:02

What a great build!  That live edge effect on your desktop is super cool!  (looks very real)  I'd love to know how you achieved that look, it's stunning!

jrbamberg

Wed, 10/22/2014 - 06:25

Joanne,

Thank you!  Grab a belt sander and go at it.  I tried using a grinder and that probably would work too, but mine doesn't work very well.  I also found that it burnt the wood.  Since the wood is soft, I used a belt sander to cut through the wood.  Dug in the edge of the sander to make deep gashes.  Its a lot of work but can be acheived with a great results.  Use a low number sandpaper to get rid most of the wood off (50 grit was good).  I practiced drawing out an idea on a spare block of wood off the same board and tried it out.  When the sample went well I got ready for the big board.  Once completed the initial slicing and dicing, I changed grit levels, 80, 120.  Lastly, with my orbital sander I used 120 again and then finished with 220 to get it all nice and smooth.  Hope that helps.  Then just stain and poly.  I hand sanded between layers of stain and poly with 220.  Lots of work sanding.  But it turned out smooth and flat.