 When it comes to custom dining tables, desks, or conference tables, one of the first design decisions I help clients make is choosing between a rectangular edge or a live edge style. Both designs have a place in high-end interiors — it just depends on what story you want your table to tell. At Robert Russell Designs, every table starts as a slab of premium hardwood. The edge style determines whether we preserve the tree’s natural beauty or refine it into a crisp, modern silhouette. Here’s how to decide which one fits your home best. What Is a Rectangular-Edged Table? A rectangular-edged table has straight, clean sides that are squared off during the milling process. It’s timeless, versatile, and easy to integrate into just about any interior. I often use this style when a client wants:
Why people love it: It’s sleek, refined, and makes the wood grain the star of the show without visual distraction. What Is a Live Edge Table? A live edge table keeps the original contour of the tree, showcasing its natural character — bark lines, curves, and organic movement. When you choose a live edge, you’re choosing to celebrate nature’s irregularities instead of hiding them. Each piece is literally one-of-a-kind. I often pair live edge slabs with epoxy resin rivers, accentuating the organic shapes with color, depth, and light reflection. It’s a stunning balance between wild and refined — a statement piece that sparks conversation. Why people love it: It connects you to nature, tells a story, and guarantees that no one else will ever have the same table. Rectangular Edge vs. Live Edge: A Quick Comparison
Which One Is Right for You? Here’s the truth: both edge styles are beautiful — it just depends on your personality and your space.
My Perspective as a Craftsman Each edge style reflects a different design philosophy. A rectangular edge table celebrates precision and balance — the craft of shaping wood into something perfectly refined. A live edge table honors the raw beauty of nature — preserving what time and growth created over decades. Both require skill, patience, and a deep respect for the wood itself — and both can become the heart of your home when thoughtfully designed. Ready to Design Your Custom Table?
Whether you’re drawn to clean modern lines or the organic flow of a live edge, I can help you design a piece that fits your lifestyle and aesthetic perfectly. Explore examples on my Custom Table Gallery or contact me to start your custom build. Every table is hand-built here in the USA — one project, one client, one story at a time.
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 Your custom table from Robert Russell Designs is a handcrafted heirloom — built with locally sourced hardwoods and finished to highlight its natural beauty and durability. Whether your table features a hard wax oil, oil-based urethane, or catalyzed varnish, proper care ensures it remains stunning for generations. Here’s how to care for your table based on its finish, with recommended brand-name products to make maintenance easy and effective. Hard Wax Oils Brands Used: Rubio Monocoat, Woodaddy Hard wax oils penetrate the wood, enhancing its grain and texture while providing a matte, water-resistant finish. Care & Maintenance:
Oil-Based Urethane Wipe-On Brand Used: General Finishes Arm-R-Seal Arm-R-Seal offers a warm, hand-rubbed appearance with excellent durability and resistance to moisture and wear. Care & Maintenance:
Catalyzed / 2K Conversion Varnish Brand Used: General Finishes Enduro Conversion Varnish This industrial-grade finish offers superior resistance to moisture, chemicals, and wear — ideal for high-use surfaces. Care & Maintenance:
General Tips for All Finishes
 When creating a custom epoxy table, the epoxy resin you choose determines everything—from clarity and finish to strength and longevity. At Robert Russell Designs, we use EcoPoxy, the best epoxy resin for woodworking and river tables, because quality matters. Why Epoxy Quality MattersNot all epoxy is created equal. Cheap epoxy brands often lead to:
Why We Choose EcoPoxyEcoPoxy stands out because:
Heirloom Quality You Can TrustEvery table from Robert Russell Designs is crafted with precision and care, using only the finest materials. When you choose EcoPoxy, you’re investing in a piece that will remain beautiful and structurally sound for decades. Explore our blog for more design insights and see why our tables are designed to be passed down from generation to generation. Ready to create your heirloom-quality epoxy table?Schedule your design consultation today. Let’s bring your vision to life with craftsmanship that lasts a lifetime.
 When you commission a custom epoxy table, the resin, wood, and design capture attention—but the finish is what protects it and brings it to life. Choosing the right finish isn’t just about appearance. It determines how durable your table is, how it feels to the touch, and how easy it will be to maintain over time. At Robert Russell Designs, I use several finishing methods depending on the needs of each client. Below, I’ll walk you through today’s most popular finishes for epoxy tables and explain when I recommend options like Rubio Monocoat, Woodaddy Furniture Oil, and General Finishes’ Arm-R-Seal or 2K Conversion Varnish. Why the Finish Matters on an Epoxy Table A proper finish does four things:
Because epoxy is naturally strong, the choice of finish is especially important on the wood surfaces to ensure consistent beauty and durability. Finish Options for Epoxy TablesHard Wax Oils (Rubio Monocoat & Woodaddy)
Oil-Based Urethane Wipe-On |
 Residential DiningWoodaddy Furniture Oil Natural look, repairable |  Offices or showroomsGeneral Finishes Arm-R-Seal Balanced durability & aesthetics |  Restaurants or bar topsGeneral Finishes 2K Conversion Varnish Industrial-grade durability |  Glossy “glass” effectEcoPoxy Epoxy Topcoat Seamless resin continuity |
Final Thoughts
The right finish ensures your epoxy table not only looks incredible on day one but also stands the test of time. Whether you prefer the warm, natural feel of a hard wax oil, the durable glossy film of Arm-R-Seal, or the industrial strength of a 2K conversion varnish, I’ll help you choose the best option for your lifestyle and space.
👉 Ready to design your custom epoxy table? Contact me today and let’s create a piece that’s finished beautifully inside and out.
👉 Ready to design your custom epoxy table? Contact me today and let’s create a piece that’s finished beautifully inside and out.
Live edge tables are more than just functional furniture—they are a celebration of nature's beauty and craftsmanship. At Robert Russell Designs, we specialize in creating custom live edge and epoxy resin tables that serve as the centerpiece of any space. This guide delves into the artistry, materials, and techniques behind these unique pieces.
What Is a Live Edge Table?
A live edge table incorporates the natural edge of the wood slab into its design, preserving the organic contours and imperfections of the tree. This approach highlights the wood's character, making each table one-of-a-kind.
Choosing the Right Wood Slab
Selecting the perfect wood slab is crucial. Popular choices include:
- Walnut: Known for its rich color and grain patterns.
- Maple: Offers a lighter tone with subtle grain.
- Elm: Features unique knots and a golden brown hue.
The Role of Epoxy Resin
Epoxy resin is often used to fill natural voids, cracks, or to create vibrant river-like effects. It not only enhances the table's appearance but also adds strength and stability. Techniques range from clear pours to colored and even glowing resins, allowing for endless creative possibilities.
Crafting the Perfect Live Edge Table
Creating a live edge table involves several meticulous steps:
- Selecting and Preparing the Slab: Choose a slab that fits your desired dimensions and aesthetic. Ensure it's properly dried to prevent future warping.
- Sanding and Shaping: Smooth the surface while preserving the natural edge. This step requires patience to achieve a flawless finish.
- Applying Epoxy Resin: Mix and pour the resin into voids or along edges, ensuring even distribution and curing.
- Finishing Touches: Sand between coats, apply a protective finish, and attach the base securely.
Design Inspirations
Live edge tables can complement various interior styles:
- Rustic: Embrace the natural imperfections of the wood for a cozy, cabin-like feel.
- Modern: Pair with sleek metal bases for a contemporary look.
- Industrial: Combine reclaimed wood with raw steel elements.
Maintenance and Care
To preserve the beauty of your live edge table:
A live edge table is more than just a piece of furniture; it's a testament to nature's artistry and human craftsmanship. At Robert Russell Designs, we are dedicated to bringing these masterpieces to life, tailored to your unique style and space.
- Regular Cleaning: Dust with a microfiber cloth to avoid scratches.
- Avoid Moisture: Use coasters and placemats to protect the surface.
- Periodic Oiling: Apply food-safe oils to nourish the wood and maintain its luster.
A live edge table is more than just a piece of furniture; it's a testament to nature's artistry and human craftsmanship. At Robert Russell Designs, we are dedicated to bringing these masterpieces to life, tailored to your unique style and space.
Ready to Create Your Custom Live Edge Table?
If you're inspired and ready to embark on the journey of crafting a bespoke live edge table, reach out to Robert Russell Designs. Let's transform your vision into a timeless piece of art.
Author
Founder of Robert Russell Designs, Robert crafts one-of-a-kind live edge and epoxy resin tables. He shares insights on custom furniture, woodworking techniques, and design inspiration to help homeowners create unique, high-end pieces.
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