Walnut Coffee Tables
For the first step, I removed the bark from the wood. Next, I left the wood to dry under the sun during the summer. Although slow, this natural process was essential for preparing the wood for its next transformation phase.
Once the wood dried, I started planning, sanding, and smoothing out the surface of the walnut slices. It was a crucial stage of the process, as it determined the final appearance of the tables, ensuring that the surface was even and smooth while showcasing the natural beauty of the walnut.
The next step was to fill the voids of the rotten cores using epoxy resin. I created a makeshift mold and poured the resin into the affected areas, allowing it to dry and solidify. Lastly, I applied two layers of hard wax oil as a topcoat to protect the wood.
This project has taught me about the high potential a piece of seemingly rotten wood has. I counted the annual rings on the larger slice, and it turned out that they were over sixty years old. This was an eye-opening moment as I started reflecting on how easily we regard raw materials as trash and forget to respect natural resources. Upcycled hardwood tables like these could last for generations, unlike mass-produced furniture, which often prioritizes convenience and cost over longevity and environmental impact.