Gifts of natural beauty

A major storm means something a little different to John Fisher. Working at his family logging business, Fisher Logging in Burton, post-storm clean-ups mean clearing properties of damaged and downed trees. It also presents an opportunity for John and his brother Marvin’s other business, Unique Live Edge Tables in Chesterland.

“We hate to see the devastation these storms can cause, but nature is an amazing thing and the fact that we can produce something beautiful out of many of the downed trees makes us very proud of what we do,” John Fisher says. “All of the items at Unique Live Edge are handmade, quality, high-end Amish craftsmanship. Our name is on these items and that means everything to us.”

John and Marvin, loggers by trade, are true craftsmen when it comes to the live edge furniture they create. They showcase their skills at Unique Live Edge Tables while also offering DIYers a place to purchase slabs and try their own hand at creating these one-of-a-kind pieces. 

“It all starts in the woods,” John says. “Dad started Fisher Logging in the late 1980s, and we started learning about trees and logging skills as kids. In 2019 we took over the business and, along with craftsman Aiden Miller, started making live edge tables. Unique Live Edge allows us to offer our pieces to the public and guide DIYers through the process.”

If you’re not familiar with live edge and question whether it’s the right fit for your home, John and Marvin love sharing this popular style that merges natural beauty with functional craftsmanship and fits with any design preference. 

“You don’t have to start with a dining table or other larger piece,” John says. “We offer those, of course, but we also have live edge charcuterie boards, light fixtures, shelving, bar tops, coat racks, even pet beds.”

The beauty of live edge begins with the tree. Unique Live Edge offers pieces in walnut, maple, hickory, cherry, white oak and even some rare varieties when available. All woods are 100% kiln-dried, a critical step to avoid cracking and splitting in the finished piece.

“The process begins with the harvesting of the tree,” John says. “We then determine where to cut the log to get the best pieces out of it and cut it into slabs. We stick dry the slabs for about nine months, then they go into the kiln for about 40 days. We aim for a below 10% moisture content.”

Then comes the process of surfacing each slab, which involves flattening for table tops and other products. After sanding is completed, the slab is ready to be finished. 

“From harvesting the tree to when it arrives at Unique Live Edge takes about a year,” John says. “We offer many already finished pieces but also the raw slabs to be finished how the customer chooses.”

The different finishes or table leg styles allow live edge to fit seamlessly into your home, whether your style is traditional, modern farmhouse, rustic cottage or contemporary. 

“My favorite part of live edge is that no two pieces are ever the same because no two trees are the same,” John says. “Not only does live edge promote sustainability, but it also provides a truly unique and highly durable family heirloom to last for generations.”

John suggests bringing in a picture or simply an idea and he’ll work with you to create just what you’re looking for.

“From the slab to the finished piece, we walk you through the process so you know just what to expect, or we’ll advise you on your own project,” John says. “We love for people to pick out a slab and then see the finished product where the contours of the wood really come to life. It’s a beautiful, peaceful process that is often born out of a chaotic, natural occurrence. The idea of offering this to our customers is very fulfilling.”

Unique Live Edge Tables is located at 8737 Mayfield Rd., in Chesterland. Store hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursday, 9a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information call Unique Live Edge Tables at 440-883-9417 or contact John at 440-313-2478.