What Is “Live Edge” Wood? | Live Edge Picture Frames
What Is Live Edge Wood / Natural Edge Wood?
Live edge wood refers to wood that has been cut from a log with the edges left in their natural, irregular state rather than being squared off. This means that the natural edge of the tree is preserved, including the bark, giving it a rustic and organic appearance.
Live edge wood is often used in furniture making, such as tabletops, shelves, and countertops, to showcase the natural beauty of the wood and add a unique touch to the finished piece.
Live edge wood is also used to craft “rustic” décor items, such as (you guessed it…) Live edge picture frames!
Live edge wood can come from a variety of tree species and is prized for its individuality and character.
Also Called “Natural Edge” Wood or “Raw Edge” Wood
Live edge wood is also commonly referred to as “natural edge wood”, or “raw edge wood”. These terms are often used interchangeably to describe wood that retains the natural, irregular edges of the tree from which it was cut.
Live Edge Picture Frames
I have seen many live edge picture frames online (or natural edge picture frames, if you prefer – though for the sake of simplicity, we’ll refer to them as “live edge frames” from now on).
I never knew there were such thing as live edge picture frames when I started making them in 2012. In fact, I didn’t even start calling them live edge frames for quite awhile. Once I did, and started keyword researching the term “live edge picture frames”, I noticed I wasn’t the only one making them!
A little healthy competition didn’t scare me, though! I just had to make sure my live edge picture frames were the nicest. And, of course, they are (Hey, there’s nothing wrong with a little braggin’).
I’m sure that’s in the Bible somewhere…
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Are Craig’s Unique Live Edge Frames Considered “Rustic”?
I did classify all of the frames I crafted early on as “rustic wood picture frames”, but it eventually occurred to me that people with a potential interest in a unique or unusual wood picture frame might have something elegant in mind, and I had heard people use the word “elegant” from time to time when describing my “live edge” picture frames.
Here are some truly rustic wood picture frames that are very nice
More of Craig’s blog articles of possible interest
I figured classifying them as “rustic wood picture frames” might not do them justice in the mind of anyone envisioning an unusual, yet somewhat elegant frame. I don’t think the words “elegant” and “rustic” necessarily tend to go together, so just calling them unique wood picture frames (or “unusual”), but specifying that they were handcrafted from wood would be wiser. And calling them “live edge picture frames” was kind of a good compromise.
Craig’s Process – Crafting Amazing Wood Frames
Live Edge Picture Frames to Complement Live Edge Furniture
If you have, say, a live edge dining table in your home, complementing it with appropriate wall décor can enhance the overall aesthetic of the space. Here are some ideas for wall décor (in addition to live edge picture frames, obviously) that can complement a live edge dining table or other live edge furniture:
- Nature-Inspired Artwork: Since live edge wood brings a natural, organic feel to the room, consider displaying artwork that features nature scenes, such as landscapes, forests, or botanical illustrations. This can harmonize with the rustic charm of the table.
- Metallic Accents: Introducing metallic accents through wall art or décor can add a touch of modern elegance to the room. Consider metal sculptures, wall hangings, or mirrors with sleek frames to complement the natural beauty of the wood.
- Textured Wall Hangings: Incorporating textured wall hangings, such as woven tapestries, macramé, or fabric art, can add depth and visual interest to the space. Look for pieces that complement the color palette and style of the live edge table.
A ridiculously live edge frame - Custom Shelving: Installing custom shelving made from the same type of wood as the live edge table can create a cohesive look while providing functional storage and display space. Arrange decorative items, such as plants, books, or pottery, to enhance the overall aesthetic.
- Statement Lighting: Consider incorporating statement lighting fixtures, such as pendant lights or wall sconces, that complement the style and scale of the live edge table. This can serve as both functional lighting and eye-catching décor.
…And Live Edge Picture Frames, Obviously!
Ultimately, the key is to select wall décor that complements the natural beauty of the live edge dining table while adding visual interest and personality to the space. Live edge picture frames is kind of a no-brainer for complementing a live edge dining table and / or live edge shelves or other more “rustic” (wince) décor.
Not all of the live edge picture frames in stock at Craig’s Unique Frames are necessarily live edge frames, mind you. But the ones depicted throughout this page would unquestionably be considered live edge picture frames.
Have a happy day.
See a diverse collection of Craig’s unique picture frames here.