Custom vs. Premade Live Edge Tables: Which is Right for You?

When you're looking to enhance your home with a beautiful piece of furniture, a solid wood side table is an excellent choice. These tables bring a touch of rustic elegance, combining nature and craftsmanship to elevate any space. But the big question remains: should you opt for a custom-designed live edge table or choose a prefabricated one? In this article, we’ll explore the key factors in making this decision, including customization options that allow you to tailor the table to your exact needs.

Choosing the Right Wood

Whether you decide on a custom or premade table, the quality of the wood is essential. Solid wood tables, whether crafted from walnut, oak, or maple, carry natural beauty and durability. Prefabricated tables are typically made from high-quality woods with appealing grain patterns, offering a faster and more convenient option. However, if you have specific wood preferences or want to hand-pick your slab based on grain, color, or texture, custom commissions provide that flexibility.

Buying vs. Commissioning a Table

Prefabricated Tables

If you're looking for a quick and convenient solution, a premade table is an excellent choice. These tables are ready to ship or can be picked up from showrooms, providing immediate availability. You can still enjoy the craftsmanship and natural beauty of wood, but without the longer wait time associated with custom orders. This option is ideal for those on a tight schedule or those who prefer traditional table shapes and sizes.

Custom Commissions

For those seeking a more personal experience, custom tables offer virtually unlimited design possibilities. One of the main benefits of custom commissions is that they allow you to create a table that fits your space perfectly. Whether you need a table with unconventional dimensions, like a long, narrow dining table to fit a specific room layout, or want to break free from standard shapes, custom design gives you that freedom. From round, oval, and irregular shapes to one-of-a-kind features like embedded epoxy rivers or live edges, the table becomes an expression of your style.

Tailored to Your Home

Custom tables aren’t just about choosing the wood—they can be tailored in ways that premade tables can’t. With custom commissions, you can specify the size, ensuring the table perfectly fits your space, whether it's an unusually small corner, a large open area, or a unique spot that demands non-standard dimensions. You also have the freedom to choose more personalized features, such as selecting a slab with live edges or integrating custom elements like resin, glass, or metal accents. These choices allow you to create a table that is fully in harmony with your home’s aesthetic and spatial requirements.

Cost and Time Considerations

Custom commissions do take longer to complete, typically ranging from 9 to 11 weeks depending on complexity. The more intricate the design, the longer the process, especially if epoxy resins, unique grain patterns, or specialized craftsmanship are involved. Custom tables are also more expensive due to the labor-intensive nature of the process and the high level of personalization involved.

In contrast, prefabricated tables are often more budget-friendly and can be delivered quickly. They are a practical option if you're looking for a beautifully crafted table without the investment of time and money that custom pieces require.

Flexibility in Design

One of the biggest advantages of going custom is the flexibility in design. You’re not limited to standard shapes or sizes, meaning you can create a table that matches the exact vibe you want for your space. Want a large, rustic dining table with a river of blue epoxy running down the center? Or a side table with a striking live edge and a unique resin-inlaid design? Custom designs allow for full personalization, from the table's shape to its final finish.

Handling Rush Requests

While custom commissions offer complete creative control, it’s essential to plan ahead. Sometimes customers need a custom table for a special event, and while we try to accommodate urgent requests, it’s important to be realistic about production times. In some cases, we may need to decline rush projects to ensure the craftsmanship meets our high standards.

Planning for the Holidays

Demand for custom tables surges around the holiday season, especially when customers want a centerpiece for Thanksgiving or Christmas gatherings. October is typically when holiday orders begin rolling in, but given the production timeline, we recommend placing custom orders well in advance. If you’re looking for a quick solution, our showroom has a variety of ready-made tables that can fit your needs without the wait.

Conclusion: Which is Right for You?

Whether you decide to purchase a premade live edge table or go for a custom commission, both options come with their own advantages. Custom tables allow you to express your creativity, offering unique sizes, shapes, and materials that are tailored to your specific needs and preferences. If you value speed and cost-efficiency, prefabricated tables are a fantastic option that still provide high-quality craftsmanship.

If you’re still unsure which route to take, contact SEAWAVETABLE today! Our team of experts will guide you through the process to ensure that you make the right choice, whether it's designing a one-of-a-kind custom piece or finding the perfect premade table to complete your home.