Best Polyurethane For Live Edge Wood (2024 Updated)

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When it comes to adding a protective layer to your live edge wood furniture, choosing the right polyurethane is crucial. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to figure out which one is the best fit for your project. In this article, we'll go over the key points you should consider when looking for the best polyurethane for live edge wood.

Firstly, it's important to understand the different types of polyurethane finishes available, including oil-based, water-based, and solvent-based. Each type has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it's important to choose the right one for your specific project.

Secondly, you should consider the level of gloss or sheen you want for your finished piece. Glossy finishes tend to be more durable, but they may not be the best fit for every project. Satin and matte finishes offer a more natural look but may not provide as much protection.

Thirdly, you should consider the level of UV protection the polyurethane offers. If your live edge wood furniture will be exposed to direct sunlight, it's important to choose a polyurethane that offers UV protection to prevent fading and discoloration.

Fourthly, you should consider the drying time and ease of application. Some polyurethanes require multiple coats and longer drying times, while others can be applied in a single coat and dry quickly.

Lastly, you should consider the overall quality and durability of the polyurethane. Look for products that offer long-lasting protection and are resistant to scratches, stains, and other types of damage.

By considering these key points, you can find the best polyurethane for your live edge wood project and ensure that your finished piece looks beautiful and lasts for years to come.

10 Best Polyurethane For Live Edge Wood

1. Alaterre Furniture Ryegate Natural Solid Wood With Metal Cube Coffee Table, Live Edge

Introducing the Alaterre Furniture Ryegate Natural Solid Wood with Metal Cube Coffee Table, Live Edge, a stunning addition to any living space. Measuring 28 inches in length, 28 inches in width, and 19 inches in height, this coffee table boasts a unique and eye-catching design that is sure to impress.

Crafted from solid natural acacia wood, this coffee table features a live edge that adds to its rustic charm. No two pieces are exactly alike, with subtle imperfections such as knots and cracks adding to the wood's character. The clear natural finish enhances the natural beauty of the wood, giving it a sleek and modern look.

The metal straps and frame are raised on the table top, creating a striking contrast with the natural wood. The cube design of the frame adds to the contemporary feel of the piece, making it a versatile addition to any decor. Assembly is required, but the included nylon floor protectors and levelers make it easy to set up and maintain.

In addition to its visual appeal, the Alaterre Furniture Ryegate Natural Solid Wood with Metal Cube Coffee Table, Live Edge is also durable and functional. The solid wood construction ensures that it will withstand the test of time, while the metal frame adds strength and stability. The raised design of the frame also provides ample storage space underneath the table top, making it a practical choice for any living room.

Whether you are looking for a statement piece to anchor your living room or a functional coffee table that will stand up to daily use, the Alaterre Furniture Ryegate Natural Solid Wood with Metal Cube Coffee Table, Live Edge is the perfect choice. With its unique design, durable construction, and versatile style, it is sure to become a favorite piece in your home for years to come.

2. Alaterre Furniture Alpine Natural Live Edge Wood 36" Mantel Shelf

The Alaterre Furniture Alpine Natural Live Edge Wood 36" Mantel Shelf is a unique and beautiful addition to any home. Made from natural wood, each piece is one-of-a-kind, with its own unique shape and character. The live edge shape of the shelf provides a rustic and natural look that is perfect for the modern home.

The shelf is designed to offer ample space to display your favorite accessories, whether it's books, picture frames, or other decorative items. The clear natural finish of the wood highlights its natural beauty, while also providing protection against wear and tear.

The shelf is easy to install, thanks to the flush, key holder metal bracket that comes with it. This bracket allows the shelf to hang securely on any wall, without any visible screws or brackets. This creates a clean and seamless look that adds to the shelf's overall aesthetic appeal.

One of the most appealing aspects of this shelf is the fact that no two pieces are exactly alike. The unique features of the natural wood, such as knots and cracks, are part of the wood's character and add to its overall charm. This means that each shelf is truly one-of-a-kind, and adds a touch of individuality to any home.

Overall, the Alaterre Furniture Alpine Natural Live Edge Wood 36" Mantel Shelf is a stunning and functional addition to any home. With its unique live edge shape, ample display space, and easy installation, it is a great choice for anyone who wants to add a touch of rustic charm to their home decor.

3. Crystal Clear Epoxy Resin Kit For Art, Jewelry, Tables, And More. 1 Gallon Size With Fast Curing, Perfect For Coating And Casting. Two-Part Formula For Easy Use.

PUDUO Epoxy Resin Crystal Clear Art 1 Gallon Kit is the perfect solution for any artist's resin art projects. This kit comes with 64 ounces of resin and 64 ounces of hardener, providing a crystal-clear finish with long-lasting results for wood finishes and many more applications.

The unique fast-curing resin allows for the finished casting to be removed within 8 hours and fully cured within 24 hours. This feature makes it perfect for artists who want to complete their projects quickly without sacrificing quality.

The PUDUO Epoxy Resin Crystal Clear Art Kit is easy to use, with straightforward instructions and no confusion. Just mix one part resin to one part hardener, and you'll have 45 minutes of work time at room temperature to produce your finest work.

This kit is perfect for all kinds of art projects, including casting and doming Resin Art, Resin Jewelry, and more! The possibilities are only limited by your imagination.

The PUDUO Epoxy Resin Crystal Clear Art 1 Gallon Kit is backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, ensuring your satisfaction. If our kit does not meet your expectations, you can return it for a full refund, no questions asked.

Overall, the PUDUO Epoxy Resin Crystal Clear Art 1 Gallon Kit is a high-quality, fast-curing, and easy-to-use solution for all your resin art projects. With its crystal-clear finish and long-lasting results, it's the perfect choice for any artist looking to take their work to the next level.

4. 13 Inch Acacia Wood Cheese Board Set With 4 Knives And 4 Bowls – Ideal For Entertaining And Serving – Us Patented.

The Cheese Board Set – Charcuterie Board Set and Cheese Serving Platter is a must-have for those who love to entertain and serve food in style. This product is made from high-quality Acacia wood and is designed and quality-checked in Germany, ensuring its durability and elegance. The set comes with four bowls and four knives, making it perfect for holding and slicing all kinds of cheese and charcuterie.

One of the unique features of this product is its original German design, which is patented in the US. The US patent number for this product is US D906,067 S. The set is meticulously crafted for upscale parties and lavish dinners, making it the perfect addition to any event. Your guests will marvel at the beautiful table setting and mouth-watering food you prepared.

The cheese board set is more spacious than most thanks to its wide 13-inch diameter, providing ample room for crackers, serving utensils, and cutlery for cheese and meat. The four ceramic bowls in our slate charcuterie board set help you sort various kinds of side dishes, fruits, crackers, nuts, and meats while keeping them neatly arranged. This makes it easy to organize your cheese and meats, ensuring that your guests can easily find what they are looking for.

The cheese knives included in this set are made of heavy-duty stainless steel, enabling them to seamlessly slice hard, soft, and semi-hard cheeses while preserving their original shape. This means that you can serve your guests perfectly sliced cheese without any hassle. The knives are also easy to store and clean, making them perfect for everyday use.

In conclusion, the Cheese Board Set – Charcuterie Board Set and Cheese Serving Platter is a luxurious addition to any entertaining occasion. Its elegant design, spacious size, and high-quality materials make it a must-have for any host who wants to impress their guests. So, if you are looking for a product that is both functional and stylish, look no further than this cheese board set.

5. Srlwerks Pine & Cedar Rustic Coffee Table And 2 End Tables Set With Live Edge, Handcrafted Living Room Furniture.

SRLWerks offers a unique and handcrafted wood coffee table and end table set that will add a rustic touch to any living room. This set includes a pine and cedar wood coffee table and two live edge end tables, all crafted in the USA for a one-of-a-kind style.

The wooden coffee table and end tables are made with white pine slab tops and white cedar log legs, ensuring a sturdy and durable construction that will last through the years. The live edge design of the tables ensures that no two pieces are the same, showcasing the natural beauty and unique character of the wood grain. The Honey Pine finish on the live edge table further enhances the natural beauty of the wood.

These rustic coffee and end table sets are perfect for various styles of decor, from farmhouse to minimalist. They can be placed together in one room as a cohesive unit or spread throughout the house to add a touch of the outdoors inside.

SRLWerks is a family-owned business that takes great pride in bringing genuine one-of-a-kind style to each of their customers. The handcrafted furniture is made with wood from trees that grow naturally in the northern part of the USA, ensuring that each piece is unique and shows the character of the wood.

In summary, SRLWerks' wood coffee table and end table set is a beautiful and unique addition to any living room. The handcrafted construction and use of natural wood ensure that each piece is one-of-a-kind, and the live edge design adds a rustic touch to any decor style.

6. 0.75 Gallon Deep Pour Epoxy Resin Kit – Crystal Clear, Food Grade Safe, Ideal For Live Edge, River Tables And Wood Filler – 2:1 Ratio, Single Pour.

The Deep Pour Epoxy Resin Kit is a crystal-clear, food-grade safe, and expertly formulated liquid glass 2 to 4 inches resin kit. It is perfect for creating live edge river tables and wood filler. The kit is a single pour, making it incredibly convenient and easy to use.

The epoxy resin kit is a product of years of experience and expertise, formulated by chemists to provide the best results possible. It is ideal for various applications, including mica powder, deep resin molds, alcohol ink, river tables, pigment powder, and resin dye.

The kit is designed to provide the highest level of protection against UV yellowing. With its SuperClear Liquid Glass 2.0, it has the highest UV yellowing resistance out of all competitors, making it the best epoxy resin for wood, table DIY, countertops, tabletops, and all epoxy table ideas.

The Deep Pour Epoxy Resin Kit is excellent for colored epoxy resin wood filler applications. It can also be used as a clear epoxy resin wood filler for filling large voids in wood with epoxy pouring up to 2 inches plus. With its metallic epoxy pigment, the kit works amazingly, mixing flawlessly with epoxy resin color pigments, mica powders like Black Diamond Pigments, and creating a superb colored epoxy for wood.

The Deep Pour Epoxy Resin Kit is an original manufacturer of resin products with over 60 years of experience. The product is made in the USA, odor-free, and has zero VOCs.

In summary, the Deep Pour Epoxy Resin Kit is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a crystal-clear, food-grade safe, and highly durable epoxy resin. It is expertly formulated by chemists, making it perfect for various applications, including live edge river tables and wood filler. With its exceptional UV yellowing resistance and compatibility with metallic epoxy pigments, the kit is the best epoxy resin for wood, table DIY, countertops, tabletops, and all epoxy table ideas.

7. Walnut Hollow Medium Basswood Rustic Round Wood Slices With Live Edge Bark, Bulk Value Pack, 12-Pack

The Walnut Hollow Medium Basswood Rustic Round Wood Slices with Live Edge Bark is a bulk value pack that comes with 12 pieces of basswood. Each piece in the pack is between 7" and 9" in width, with varying lengths and a thickness of 5/8". This pack is perfect for those who enjoy arts, crafts, hobbies, home decorating, rustic weddings, parties, table centerpieces, flowers or candle tablescapes, signs, and so much more.

Each basswood country round is kiln dried, finely sanded, and carefully processed to retain its natural bark. The natural bark on each slice gives it a rustic and unique look. The slices are perfect for those who want to add a touch of nature to their home décor. They can be used as coasters, table mats, or even as a base for a flower vase.

The basswood used in this pack is of the highest quality and is carefully selected to ensure that it meets the standards set by Walnut Hollow. Each unique piece may feature natural occurrences such as knots, flecking, blue stain, or a slightly curved shape or taper. These natural occurrences add to the beauty of the wood and make each piece unique.

The wood slices are proudly produced in Wisconsin, USA, and are a testament to the quality craftsmanship that goes into each piece. The wood is sourced from sustainable forests, and the production process is environmentally friendly. The wood slices are carefully packaged to ensure that they reach their destination in perfect condition.

In conclusion, the Walnut Hollow Medium Basswood Rustic Round Wood Slices with Live Edge Bark is a must-have for those who enjoy arts, crafts, hobbies, home decorating, rustic weddings, parties, table centerpieces, flowers or candle tablescapes, signs, and so much more. The natural beauty of the wood, combined with its unique features, makes it a perfect addition to any home décor. The bulk value pack of 12 pieces makes it an affordable option for those who want to add a touch of nature to their home.

8. Live Edge Black Walnut Slabs For Crafting And Diy Projects, 12-14" Wide And 20" Long. Perfect For River Tables And Cutting Boards.

Black Walnut Live Edge Slabs are a great choice for anyone looking for unique and high-quality wood pieces for crafting, DIY projects, or furniture-making. These slabs are made from single pieces of black walnut wood, carefully selected and cut to showcase the natural beauty of the wood grain and live edges.

Each slab is a one-of-a-kind piece, with its own unique character and markings, making it perfect for creating custom and personalized projects. The slabs are available in a size of 12-14 inches wide and 20 inches long, providing ample space for crafting or DIY cutting boards.

If you need larger slabs or custom sizes, the seller offers assistance in finding the perfect product for your project. The slabs are also around 3/4th of an inch thick or greater, ensuring that they are sturdy enough for various projects.

Black walnut wood is a popular choice for woodworking due to its durability, strength, and beautiful natural color. The wood has a rich, dark brown color with a straight grain pattern that is accentuated by the live edges. The live edges add an organic and natural touch to the slabs, making them ideal for river tables or other furniture pieces.

The seller takes pride in sourcing high-quality black walnut wood that is sustainably harvested, ensuring that each slab is responsibly sourced. This also means that the slabs may have minor imperfections or knots, which only add to their unique character.

In summary, Black Walnut Live Edge Slabs are a great choice for anyone looking for high-quality, unique wood pieces for crafting, DIY projects, or furniture-making. With their natural beauty and durability, these slabs are sure to impress and elevate any project.

9. Clear Deep Pour Epoxy Resin Kit For River Tables And Wood Filler, ¾ Gallon (2:1 Mix Ratio)

JDiction's Epoxy Resin Kit is a high-quality, crystal clear, and deep pour epoxy resin that is ideal for various art projects, including river tables, live edge applications, and wood filler. The kit comes in a ¾ gallon size and has a 2:1 mix ratio of resin A to resin B.

One of the standout features of this epoxy resin is its crystal clear and high gloss finish. Its thinner viscosity and bubble releasing attributes make it easy to work with and reduce the occurrence of bubbles during production. Additionally, the high gloss formula ensures a perfect, crystal clear finish that is sure to impress.

The deep pour epoxy resin can fill gaps more than 2 inches thick at a time, making it an excellent choice for art projects that require deep pouring, such as river beds and movable table sides. It is also suitable for various DIY resin art, coating bars, counter tops, jewelry, and tumblers.

JDiction's Epoxy Resin Kit has a 2:1 mixture ratio of resin A to resin B. After curing, the hardness of this resin is higher, and the hardness index can reach above 80D, making it more wear-resistant and less likely to break. This resin is perfect for those who want to create long-lasting art pieces.

The epoxy resin is perfectly mixed with colorants, mica powder, and other pigments, making it easy to create stunning resin art works. It can be used with wood and molds to produce an even wider range of unique and beautiful creations.

JDiction's team is committed to providing excellent customer service, fast response times, and multi-channel accessibility for customer care. They want their customers to be 100% satisfied with their purchase and are standing by to assist with any issues that may arise.

In conclusion, JDiction's Epoxy Resin Kit is an excellent choice for anyone looking to create beautiful and long-lasting resin art pieces. Its crystal clear and high gloss finish, deep pour capabilities, and 2:1 mix ratio make it a versatile and reliable choice for any art project.

10. Beast Bond Epoxy Resin Kit – 1 Gallon, High-Performance, Self-Leveling, Uv Resistant, Clear & Glossy – Ideal For Table Tops, Crafts, And Diy Projects.

Beast Bond's Epoxy Resin Kit is a professional-grade, high-performance epoxy resin that provides unmatched durability and clarity for all your crafting needs. The kit includes a 1-gallon clear epoxy resin and hardener, making it the perfect formula to bring your art to life while providing excellent protection.

This artisan-approved epoxy cures crystal clear with no imperfections and a stunning ultra-glossy finish, requiring no polishing. It is ideal for creating long-lasting, scratch, and moisture-resistant resin art pieces that won't yellow over time.

The kit is beginner-friendly, with a simple 1:1 ratio of the resin and hardener, and 40 minutes of working time. It allows time to mix in vivid colors for striking creations, and the easy pour formula will self-level and smooth out, resulting in minimal bubbles. This is unlike many other resins on the market, which can leave unsightly bubbles in your finished product.

The Beast Bond Epoxy Resin Kit includes everything you need to get started on your resin crafts, including clear resin (1/2 gallon), hardener (1/2 gallon), 5 mixing sticks, spatula, 2 measuring cups (16.9 oz), gloves, and a step-by-step manual. This all-in-one package makes it easy to start creating beautiful jewelry, wood features, tabletops, and more.

Made from premium quality materials, our non-toxic and non-flammable resin epoxy is free of fumes from VOC emissions, making it safe for use in any setting. You can work in complete comfort and confidence, knowing that you are using a product that is both safe and reliable.

Beast Bond is committed to delivering only the best quality products with beastly durability that you can rely on for all your projects, big or small. Trust our Epoxy Resin Kit to bring your art to life with stunning clarity and unmatched durability.

Best Polyurethane For Live Edge Wood FAQs

Can I apply polyurethane to live edge wood with natural splits and cracks, and if so, what type of polyurethane should I use to fill these imperfections?

Yes, you can apply polyurethane to live edge wood with natural splits and cracks, but it is recommended that you fill the imperfections in the wood before applying the finish. A clear, water-based polyurethane is best for live edge wood as it will not yellow over time like oil-based finishes.

To fill the splits and cracks, you can use a wood filler or epoxy. For smaller imperfections, a wood filler is sufficient. However, for larger cracks or splits, epoxy is a better option as it is stronger and more durable.

Before applying the polyurethane, make sure to sand the wood surface smooth and remove any dust or debris. Apply the filler or epoxy to the imperfections and let it dry according to the manufacturer's instructions. Sand the surface again to ensure it is smooth, and then apply the polyurethane finish in thin, even coats. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next one.

How do I determine which type of polyurethane is best suited for my specific live edge wood application?

The best way to determine which type of polyurethane is best suited for your specific live edge wood application is to consider the environment in which the wood will be placed and the desired finish. For example, if the wood will be exposed to high levels of UV light, a polyurethane with UV inhibitors should be used. Additionally, if the wood will be exposed to moisture or high humidity, a moisture-resistant polyurethane may be necessary.

The desired finish will also impact the type of polyurethane used. For a glossy finish, a high-gloss polyurethane should be used, while a satin or matte finish may be achieved with a low-gloss polyurethane.

In general, it is recommended to use a water-based polyurethane for live edge wood applications as it is more environmentally friendly and provides a clear finish without yellowing over time. Ultimately, consulting with a professional or conducting research on the specific polyurethane brands and their properties can help determine the best option for your application.

What are some of the top-rated brands of polyurethane for live edge wood, and why are they highly recommended?

Some of the top-rated brands of polyurethane for live edge wood are Minwax, Varathane, and General Finishes. These brands are highly recommended because they offer superior protection and durability for live edge wood furniture.

Minwax and Varathane are well-known for their clear and glossy finish that enhances the natural beauty of the wood. They also offer excellent UV protection, preventing the wood from yellowing over time. General Finishes, on the other hand, is known for its water-based polyurethane, which is easy to apply and dries quickly. It also offers excellent scratch and abrasion resistance, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.

Overall, these brands are highly recommended because they offer a range of options that cater to different needs and preferences. They are known for their quality, durability, and ease of use, making them a popular choice among DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.

What are the differences between oil-based and water-based polyurethane, and which is better for live edge wood?

Oil-based polyurethane is a traditional, durable finish that provides a warm and amber glow to wood. It has a longer drying time and requires mineral spirits for cleanup. Water-based polyurethane, on the other hand, is a newer, eco-friendly alternative that dries faster and has a clear, non-yellowing finish. It can be cleaned up with soap and water.

For live edge wood, water-based polyurethane is a better choice as it doesn't alter the natural color of the wood and dries faster, reducing the risk of dust and debris sticking to the finish. It also has a lower VOC content, making it safer to use indoors. However, oil-based polyurethane may be preferred for outdoor applications as it provides better protection against water damage and UV rays. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference and the intended use of the finished product.

What factors should I consider when choosing the best polyurethane for my live edge wood project?

When choosing the best polyurethane for a live edge wood project, several factors need to be considered. The first factor is the level of protection required for the project. Different types of polyurethane offer different levels of protection, so it's important to choose one that suits the project's needs. The second factor is the level of glossiness desired, as polyurethanes come in different finishes, from matte to high gloss. The third factor is the drying time and application process, as some polyurethanes require more coats and longer drying times than others. The fourth factor is the environmental impact, as some polyurethanes may contain harmful chemicals that can affect the air quality in the workspace. Lastly, the budget also plays a role, as some polyurethanes are more expensive than others. Evaluating these factors will help in choosing the best polyurethane for a live edge wood project.

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