A few of the key steps

All of our tables are crafted in the Smoky Mountains of North Carolina where  hardwood trees thrive.  Using a blend of traditional and modern tools, we work with Oak, Maple, Black Walnut, and other native species.  Each one of our tables  follow the same process to produce furnishings of exceptional quality.

 It begins with extracting stumps that may weigh 2,000 lbs. - laden with soil and stone. The heaviest debris is removed on site before transporting to our work shop for pressure washing.  They are then organized to fill a custom designed wood kiln that is  20 feet long x 8 feet wide.  Kiln drying runs continuously and can take up to 14 months for larger pieces, ensuring stability deep within the wood.

 Once properly dried, each stump is inspected for soundness and any compromised wood is removed. It is then transferred to an 8' x 8' custom designed planing table to flatten the top and base parallel to each other.  Flatness is verified using a glass plate.

 After knot holes and crevices are sandblasted, the table will go through 8 sandings of progressively finer grits until the beautiful grain patterns manifest themselves.  All cracks and splits are detail sanded by hand in preparation for finishing.

 We prefer Tung oil for a finish, as it brings out the warmth, luster, and natural tones of the wood.  The finish involves three saturations of Tung oil, with the last two being wet sanded.  Wet sanding creates a slurry of sawdust and oil to seal up the smallest pores and leaves a polished finish.  This process is slower than other finishes, but produces a magnificent and enduring finish. 

Tree stumps and root structures are sourced locally from naturally fallen trees,storm damage, and residential clearing projects throughout the Smoky Mountains.

Proper drying is fundamental to the long-term stability of any hardwood piece.

If a stump is not fully dried,  it will continue to shift as it acclimates - often leading to cracking, movement, or instability over time.  A stump with a glass top that sits flush at first, may in a matter of months begin to wobble as the stump continues to dry and twist.

 Our process is designed to prevent this.  Smaller pieces require a minimum or 3 months continuous kiln drying, while larger bases may take up to 14 months.  This extended drying cycle ensures the wood is stable throughout, not just on the surface.

In over 15 years, we have not had a single report of cracking, warping, or mildew in properly cared for pieces.  This consistency is the direct result of thorough kiln drying.

Tung oil offers a distinct alternative to surface finishes such as lacquer, polyurethane, or varnish.  It is environmentally friendly, food safe, and the premium of natural oils that preserves and protects your elegant piece.

 Rather than forming a layer on top, Tung oil penetrates the wood, enhancing its natural texture and depth. It has been used for centuries as a protective, water-resistant sealant.

 The result is a finish that is both durable and easy to maintain. It preserves the organic feel of the wood, resists moisture and mold, and can be repaired or refreshed with ease.

 When your table arrives, you can have confidence that it was prepared to be elegant, stable, and refined.  Every piece reflects years of experience with a process designed to bring out the full character of the wood.