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Drying Timber: An Insight Into The Kilning Process

An Introduction To Drying Timber

Over the years we’ve seen our fair share of kilns: the ‘ovens’ at the heart of every brilliant sawmill for drying timber. There is an art and science to the successful running of these hangar sized ovens to ensure prized timber, and nothing less, is achieved each and every time. Live edge tables, featuring natural and rustic beauty, have become an obsession of ours here at L’Atelier Mata. To create these stunning pieces, hardwood slabs must undergo a meticulous kiln drying process. In this blog post, we will delve into the science behind kiln drying timber, exploring the principles and techniques that ensure their stability, durability, and suitability for live edge table production. By understanding the science behind kiln drying, you can make informed decisions, optimize the quality of your slabs, and deliver exceptional products to your customers.

The Science Of Drying Timber

Once cut timber slabs undergo two to three summers stacked outside to gradually season the timber and bring down moisture levels prior to the kilning process. Kiln drying is a crucial next step in the processing of hardwood slabs, as it eliminates excess moisture, kills off insect activity, stabilizes the wood, and minimizes the risk of warping, splitting, or other defects. By reducing the moisture content, kiln drying enhances the strength, density, and dimensional stability of the wood, allowing it to withstand changes in humidity and temperature more effectively. For this very reason only the most exerienced operative, often with decades of exerience, is chosen by the sawmill to undertake the work – in most situations it is the sawmill owner her/himself!

The Science Behind Kiln Drying: The kiln drying process involves a careful balance of heat, humidity, and airflow to achieve optimal results. Several scientific principles come into play during this process.

Moisture Content and Equilibrium Moisture Content (EMC): Moisture content (MC) refers to the amount of water present in wood, typically expressed as a percentage of the wood’s weight. Kiln drying aims to reduce the moisture content to a desired level. Equilibrium moisture content (EMC) refers to the moisture content at which wood reaches a balance with the surrounding environment. The target moisture content for hardwood slabs used in live edge tables is usually around 6-8%.

Drying Schedule: A drying schedule outlines the specific temperature, humidity, and time parameters required for optimal drying. It is essential to follow a carefully designed drying schedule to ensure uniform drying and minimize the risk of defects. The schedule typically involves three stages: the initial heating phase, the main drying phase, and the conditioning phase.

Heat and Moisture Transfer: Heat and moisture transfer occur simultaneously during kiln drying. The heat energy raises the temperature inside the kiln, increasing the vapor pressure of the moisture in the wood. This pressure gradient drives moisture movement from the wood’s interior towards the surface. Proper airflow and ventilation ensure the removal of evaporated moisture from the kiln, preventing reabsorption and promoting efficient drying.

Wood Structure and Stress Relief: The structure of wood consists of long cellulose fibers embedded in a matrix of lignin. During the kiln drying process, as moisture is removed, the shrinking and rearrangement of wood fibers can create internal stresses. These stresses, if not relieved properly, can lead to warping or cracking. Conditioning, the final phase of kiln drying, allows the wood to rest and equilibrate, minimizing residual stress.

Monitoring and Control Of Drying Timber: To ensure successful kiln drying, precise monitoring and control of temperature, humidity, and airflow are paramount. Modern kilns are equipped with sensors and controllers that continuously measure and adjust these parameters, providing a controlled drying environment. In the careful introduction of heat, moisture and airflow the operator expertly creates premium quality slabs over 4 to 6 weeks of careful work!

What Can Go Wrong When Drying Wood?

There are several things that can go wrong during the kiln drying process, leading to potential issues with the wood. Here are some problems that can occur:

  1. Uneven drying: If the drying process is not carefully controlled, there is a risk of uneven drying within the wood. This can result in stress build-up, warping, or cracking. Proper air circulation and temperature control are crucial to ensure uniform drying.
  2. Overdrying: Excessive heat or prolonged drying can cause the wood to become overly dry, leading to brittleness, increased susceptibility to cracking, and potential damage to its structural integrity. It’s essential to monitor the drying process closely to avoid over-drying.
  3. Case hardening: Case hardening occurs when the outer layer of wood dries too quickly, forming a hard shell while the interior remains moist. This creates tension within the wood, which can lead to warping, splitting, or checking. Proper drying schedules and moisture content monitoring can help prevent case hardening.
  4. Internal stresses: Wood contains internal stresses that can be released or exacerbated during the drying process. Improper drying conditions or rapid moisture removal can cause these stresses to manifest as warping, twisting, or cupping in the wood.
  5. Mould and fungal growth: If the kiln is not properly ventilated or if the drying conditions are not adequately controlled, there is a risk of mould and fungal growth on the wood. This can degrade the quality of the wood, affect its appearance, and potentially lead to health hazards.
  6. Insect infestation: If the drying timber already contains insect larvae or eggs, inadequate temperature control or insufficient drying time can result in the survival of these pests. This can lead to insect infestation and subsequent damage to the wood.

Conclusion

Kiln drying timber is a scientifically driven process that optimizes hardwood slabs for live edge table production. By carefully managing heat, humidity, and airflow, kiln drying eliminates excess moisture, enhances wood properties, and reduces the risk of defects. Understanding the science behind kiln drying enables the sawmill to produce high-quality slabs, achieve dimensional stability, and deliver exceptional products to their customers (us in this case). Embracing the principles of kiln drying ensures that the natural beauty of live edge tables is combined with durability and longevity so that each table truly will last a lifetime..

Different table leg finishes: how do we finish our metal table legs?

RAL colour chart

In this blog, we will discuss the different table leg finishes we use and explain the benefits of each method. There are two popular coating options for metal table legs: polyester powder coating and electroplating brass and copper. Each method has its unique advantages and can produce stunning furniture pieces that are both aesthetically pleasing and practical. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of these coating options and be able to choose the one that best suits your next project.

Black Walnut Live Edge

Polyester Powder Coatings

Polyester powder coating, known for its durability and versatility, is a popular option for metal furniture. This coating process involves applying a fine powder that is cured under heat to create a hard, protective finish. The finish is scratch, chip, fade, and chemical-resistant, making it ideal for pieces exposed to heavy use or outdoor environments.

Polyester powder coating offers complete customization and personalization of furniture with its ability to be applied in a wide range of colors and finishes. This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking to add a touch of individuality to their space, whether it’s a sleek modern look or a more traditional and classic style.

Another advantage of this coating method is its long-lasting and low-maintenance nature. Once a piece is powder-coated, it requires minimal upkeep, making it a cost-effective solution in the long run. Whether you’re looking to create a one-of-a-kind furniture piece or add elegance to your existing decor, polyester powder coating is an excellent choice.

Electro-plating

Electroplating is a process that involves the application of a thin layer of metal to the surface of another metal. In the case of brass and copper table legs, this process results in a bright and shiny finish that is perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any piece of furniture.

One of the biggest benefits of electroplating is its ability to create a range of finishes, including antique, satin, or bright. This allows for even greater customization and personalization of furniture pieces, and can help to further enhance the aesthetic appeal of the piece. Whether you’re looking to create a timeless and classic look or a more modern and contemporary style, electroplating can help you achieve your desired result.

walnut and brass dining table leg
Reclaimed dining table on distressed copper legs

Conclusion

Choosing the right coating for metal table legs involves key considerations. Opt for polyester powder coating for durability, scratch resistance, and protection against fading and chemicals. Choose electroplating for added elegance and various finishes that enhance the furniture’s appeal.

At L’Atelier Mata, we value beauty and functionality in metal table leg coatings. That’s why we offer both polyester powder coating and electroplating options. Upgrade your furniture or add sophistication to your décor with help from our expert team. Contact us now for personalized advice.

For all of our tables, just take a browse around our shop – there are finished pieces to check out, or simply get in touch to ask for a bespoke quotation. If you have any questions at all, take a look at our FAQS, or feel free to contact us.

Why Buy a Bespoke, Live Edge Dining Table?

live edge dining table

For those who appreciate the finer things in life, a bespoke live edge dining table is a stunning addition to your home. At L’Atelier Mata, we specialize in crafting one-of-a-kind pieces that exude luxury and sophistication. In this blog, we will showcase the numerous merits of owning a bespoke live edge dining table. We will also see why it is the perfect choice for your home. Here are a the key points:

1. Creative Spirit

Every live edge dining tables is a work of art, showcasing the grain, texture, and beauty of the hardwoods. With a bespoke design, you can ensure that your dining table is a reflection of your own taste and style. Whether you prefer a contemporary or rustic aesthetic, our live edge tables will make a statement in your dining room.

2. Natural Beauty

Our design process aims to highlight the natural beauty of the wood, bringing the essence of the outdoors into your home. From the knots and grains to the imperfections, each piece is a celebration of nature’s artistry. The organic quality of the wood creates an ambiance of warmth and elegance in your dining room, making it the ideal setting for intimate gatherings or grand entertaining.

3. Built to Endure

Crafted from premium hardwoods such as maple, oak, and walnut, our live edge dining tables are renowned for their durability and resistance to wear and tear. This makes them a valuable investment for your home, providing years of enjoyment and use. Whether you have young children or regularly entertain guests, these dining tables are built to stand the test of time.

4. Functionality + Opulence

At L’Atelier Mata, we believe in creating furniture that combines functionality with opulence. Our bespoke pieces offer both, with their natural curves providing a comfortable and ergonomic seating experience, and the ability to tailor the size and shape to your requirements. Whether you need a table to seat 6 or 14, our live edge dining tables are the perfect choice for the discerning entertainer.

5. An Eco-Conscious Choice

In addition to their exceptional design and quality, our live edge dining tables are also an eco-conscious choice. Made from sustainably sourced wood, they reduce the carbon footprint associated with production and transportation. Furthermore, we use only the finest eco-friendly finishing products, further reducing our impact on the environment. By working with us on your dining table project, you can indulge in luxury while also making a positive impact on the planet.

At L’Atelier Mata, our heart and soul is invested in making furniture that is sustainable, luxurious and sophisticated. This style of furniture is here to stay and we hope this blog has highlighted a few of the reasons why. Feel free to browse our collection and drop us a line if you have any questions.

Dining Table Styling Ideas for the Holidays

Dining Table Styling Ideas

Dining table styling ideas are an important aspect of creating a memorable and stylish event. The dinner table is truly the star of the holiday season, and it’s easy to see why. With its central location in the home, it’s a focal point for guests and a gathering place for family and friends. The holiday season is a perfect time to put your creativity to the test and style your dinner table in a way that is both festive and functional.

One great way to transform your dinner table is to experiment with different textures. Adding some interest to your table with soft velvet runners, linen napkins, and a metallic tablecloth can create a warm and inviting ambiance. You can also add some greenery to the table to create a natural and vibrant feel. Fresh flowers, garlands, and green foliage can bring a touch of nature to the table, and succulents, herbs, and other potted plants can also be incorporated for a unique and eye-catching look.

Another way to transform your dinner table is to play with color. Don’t be afraid to incorporate bold and vibrant colors into your table setting, as this can create a fun and energetic atmosphere. You can also choose to stick with a neutral color scheme, such as white or cream, for a more sophisticated and timeless look.

Read on to find some great examples from our team.

Dining Table Styling Ideas

Dining Table Styling Ideas 2. Large Otto Plate Black – Crafted by Frama

Handmade dinnerware is sure to make any meal that bit more special, and what could be better than eating off these beautiful Scandinavian ceramic plates. Not only are they gorgeous, this stonewear is refuted for its high strength and durability and makes for a sophisticated addition to any kitchen & dining room. The distinctive lip of the Otto series is an enduring and rustic design but combined with a stackable function and subtle glaze, it also celebrates a meeting between luxe and play in the most perfect way.

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Metallic candle holders

Dining Table Styling Ideas 4. Silver Candle holder – Crafted by Skultuna

Create an elegant setting with the Nattlight candleholder in silver from Skultuna. The Nattlight was designed by Richard Hutten, one of Holland’s most known designers. The candleholder is made of silver-plated brass with a clean, timeless design that is perfect for both festive occasions and every day. The candleholder is available in different sizes and works well displayed by itself or in a cluster. We recommend choosing silver for its versatility, so that these can be used to dress the table for any occasion throughout the new year.

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Dining Table Styling Ideas 5. Napkins with a fascinating ombre effect

The design on these napkins features an intriguing ombre effect. The fascinating patterns are more intense along one edge of the napkin and become progressively lighter as they disappear across the other side. Their generous size also means that they can roll up inside a napkin ring without looking thin. The natural style of this table linen will elevate your dining aesthetic by introducing characterful patterns and textures into the space.

Dining Table Styling Ideas

Dining Table Styling Ideas 6. Flow Napkin Rings in Brass – Ferm Living

Moulded into curving, organic shapes, this set of napkin rings help you set your table with the attractive lines found in nature, introducing more warmth into your space without offsetting the feel of luxury. Each set features four individually shaped rings of solid brass and presents a napkin casually, yet gracefully – now, we’re getting stylish.

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What about your dining table style ideas for the holidays? Head over to our Instagram and let us know!

What reclaimed wood do we use in our furniture?

Rustic reclaimed wood dining table with metal legs. Sustainable dining table made from reclaimed wood

Reclaimed wood has hit the big time in the furniture world, and for good reason. As Ikea continues to take the world by storm, a certain section of the market is reacting by demanding more character, more individuality in their furniture, which reclaimed is guaranteed to provide. But what does it all mean? How do you know you’re still getting a quality piece of wood?

reclaimed cargo train boards

What is reclaimed wood?

‘Reclaimed’ simply means that the wood has been repurposed or salvaged from another use. Typically this includes floorboards, old beams, barn cladding, railway sleepers, or pallets.

In our case, we stumbled right on a pile of wood just crying out to be rescued, at the foot of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. We’d been contacted by a bunch of architectural salvage guys, who had stripped the flooring from a group of decommissioned boxcar freight trains and were hunting for a buyer. We, quite gladly, snapped it up.

Boxcar Timber

Boxcar trains became popular in the early 1900s (you’ll recognise them from Western movies – or the opening sequence of Toy Story 3, if you’re a little younger!), when the iconic design became instrumental in shipping all kinds of large items up and down the American railroads. The wildly everchanging weather across the state lines meant that the previous flatbed style of transportation swiftly needed to grow a few more walls to keep everything safely protected! Enter: The Box Car.

To us, the floorboards taken from these trains are simply majestic. Each board is at least 50mm thick, with rich scarring, indentations and bolt holes that secured the flooring to the chassis. When raw and untouched, you’d never know the beauty underneath; they’re so utterly covered in a thick layer of grime, but a quick sand will reveal all of their secrets.

reclaimed tabletop on chrome legs

Quality Still Matters

In the boom of reclaimed, it’s important to consider the quality of the wood – just as you would with anything new. Unlike railway sleepers, or some external timber cladding that you often see used for reclaimed furniture – boxcar wood is as dry as any other furniture grade timber. This means that there’s less risk of the wood twisting and cracking over time once it’s in your home – so it’ll last as long as you want it to.

Discover the Character

The second thing that we like to keep in mind is the character ingrained in the wood. Not all reclaimed timber is created equal – and although old oak beams may be aged by time, they’re a little lacking in their ability to tell a good story. We fell in love with Boxcar wood because it’s been through decades of hard work – and it shows it. It’s as if it’s speaking a language that you’re desperate to understand, and yet unable to translate – which we believe is a non-negotiable feature for reclaimed wood.

reclaimed tabletop

For all of our Boxcar tables, just take a browse around our shop – there are finished pieces to check out, or simply get in touch to ask for a bespoke quotation.

If you have any questions at all, take a look at our FAQS, or feel free to contact us.

How to choose the right dining table for your home

live edge dining table

If you’re freaking out about how to choose the right dining table, we understand. This is, after all, the place your family will gather every evening to go over their days or do their homework. It’s the spot you’ll choose to complete an epic crafting project with your kids; or simply sit with a cup of coffee and a magazine when the house is empty. It’ll be privy to gossip with your friends, or discussions with your other half.

The dining table, whether we realise it or not, so often tends to be the anchor point of the home, and following this easy guide will make sure you get it just perfect.

Step 1: Measure the dimensions of your room

Before you even start thinking about the design of your dining table, you’re going to need to know how much space you have to play with. Measure the available floor space (make sure you don’t include sideboards or any other furniture), and minus 90cm from each side to enable people to push their chairs back comfortably – now you have your maximum table size. Each person will need about 60cm of space down the sides, plus an extra 30cm if you’re planning on seating someone at each end, so you can also figure out how many people you’re able to host.

Step 2: Decide on the tones and colours you want to see

It’s not your job to know exactly what wood variety you want; that’s down to us. However, you will need to give us a little guiding light in terms of colour. Would you prefer something more golden (Oak / Ash), or milk chocolatey (English Walnut)? How about a deep, rich, purple-brown (American Black Walnut)? Do you have other wooden furniture you’d like it to complement? The more information you can provide, the quicker we can find the timber that’s right for you.

internal opening in live edge table
Unique burl hornbeam live edge dining table Handmade live edge dining table with hornbeam burl top

Step 3: Pinpoint the shape and style you prefer

If you think straight cut edges would work better for your young family; no problem! If you like a gentle, undulating live edge then we’ll find a slab that fits the mould – or we can source a piece of wood with a more exaggerated shape. If beaten up, reclaimed wood is your jam, we’ll build you something with real character – or we can find an almost-perfect piece of wood to work on. The finer details are often strongly led by the wood itself, but we can make sure you get the style of table you want.

Step 4: Consider your leg options

It may seem like an impossible task, but choosing the right legs is just as important as choosing the right table top. We offer a wide range of individual legs and table frame styles to choose from, in a multitude of different finishes, but we also have the ability to fabricate something bespoke. As before, it’s best to consider all of the functional aspect first, like how many chairs you’ll need to fit around the table – and even access into your house – before you move on to colours and shapes. The fun part comes later!

Bespoke Ten Seater Table legs
Walnut Bench | Stainless Steel

Step 5: Choose the right chairs for your dining table

Thanks to Step 1, you know exactly how many people are going to be seated at your new dining table, and how much space you can allocate per person – so you know the maximum width of chairs you can buy. We craft all of our tables – unless instructed otherwise – to the standard height of 75cm. You want a 30cm difference between the seat height and the table height, so your dining chairs should be about 45cm from floor to seat. Consider the table legs you’ve chosen: do you want to match the finish, or do you need to be aware of bars running vertically, or across the floor?

Once we’ve nailed down all of that – you just have to sit back and wait for delivery day. Or, even better, take a look at our finished pieces and check if one of them fits your criteria. Remember – leg design is step 4 for a reason, and we can always swap the base out for something different. And, just like that, the question of how to choose the right dining table becomes a little easier to deal with!

If you have any questions at all, take a look at our FAQS, or feel free to contact us.

What is the best shape for a dining table?

oval oak dining table

So you’ve decided your dining area is particularly special (it is), and it needs an extra special dining table to boot. But how do you know which dining table shape is right for you and your space?

As the dining table itself is the focal feature of a dining room, it’s important to select one that not only suits the space, but also your lifestyle. At Wicked we can create all sorts of sizes, styles and shapes. All you have to do is decide which is best for you…

Shape No. 1

Rectangle

This is the most celebrated dining table shape – and for good reason. Its lengthy, tight structure is perfect for entertaining on a large scale, famously with hosts positioned at each end.

The linear shape of a rectangular dining table readily fits into most dining areas and is easily the most accommodating shape for most living areas. In smaller dining rooms, when not in use, a rectangular table can be pushed against the wall, but if you have a really narrow dining area, choose long dining benches instead of dining chairs to free up space. These can be tucked under the table when not in use.

A rectangular table is usually between 90cm to 107cm wide. Narrower tables can work well in a tight space, but if the table is any narrower than 90cm, you may find it tough to fit place settings as well as food onto the table.

Though the most popular of shapes, the humble rectangle can be beautified with unique features. When we create our bespoke tables we ask customers how they envision their one-of-a-kind table. A rectangular table can be brought to life with an exciting external or internal live edge, which harks back to the beauty of the tree itself.

Shape No. 2

Square

Square dining tables are the perfect shape for smaller spaces where the table serves many purposes. If there are two to four people in your household, a square table is a great choice.

This shape helps to create a sense of balance and symmetry in a dining area. Celebrating contemporary style, this look can be enhanced further by using chrome and copper pedestals, and by pairing the table with matching hardwood benches. A square table creates an intimate atmosphere, making it perfect for small scale dinner parties and romantic nights in. It can be jarring to have a large rectangular table when there are only two or three people present for most of your meals whereas a square table is warm and inviting.

Shape No. 3

Oval

If you’re mulling over whether a rectangular or a square dining table is best for your space, perhaps the oval is your answer. An oval table combines the linear design of a rectangular table with the closeness and flexibility of a round table. If your area is made up of many straight lines and edges, the curves of an oval table will help soften your interior to make it more intimate and inviting. The curved edges make it great in small spaces too and can be incorporated into smaller dining areas with ease.

If you’re looking to highlight the soft nature of an oval table, it is always a good choice to combine chairs that feature similar characteristics.

Rather than table legs, a central pedestal base is a fantastic choice if you’re aiming for a sculptural and sophisticated décor. This draws attention to the decorative qualities of the oval shape as well as freeing up space for all of your guests to get tucked under that table and ready to eat.

Shape No. 4

Round

A round dining table is perfect for the hosts among us – by keeping everyone at the same distance from each other, this shape is great for creating an energetic and social atmosphere . A table with no corners is great for 2 reasons (3 if we count the kids not being able to run into them) – firstly, you can seat the maximum number of guests possible and secondly, from a style perspective, the curvature adds some shape variety to a room that is big and rectangular which livens a living space.

Opt for a pedestal base – these offer the most leg room, so your guests won’t need to compete with uncomfortably placed table legs.

A round table equals a more casual dining experience. An added benefit is that there is no need to fret when you have an uneven number of guests. If you’re used to people turning up unannounced when your signature dish is in the oven, then a round table is perfect for you.

So what shape dining table is best for you? Which shape is best for your space?

If you’re still scratching your head, why not give us a ring on 020 8432 3266 or email us at info@lateliermata.com

Have a good idea of what you’re looking for? Head on over to our Get a Quote page or mosey on over to our Shop for some inspiration.