The process of Book matching
Bookmatching is the technique of matching two (or more) sequentially cut wood slab sections, so that two adjoining surfaces and grain patterns mirror each other, giving the impression of an opened book.
As applied to our wood slabs, the bookmatching technique is used for cosmetic beauty but is also applied to achieve a wider width wood slab that typically is crafted into a live edge table or similar large often custom furniture pieces.
The two adjoining surfaces are produced from the same piece of wood, so that they have (almost) exactly the same appearance, but mirrored this is due to how the log is milled and sequenced to keep everything in order for bookmatching the slab.
The final effect varies with the grain figure of the wood species that is being worked and can range from extremely subtle (so that the two surfaces almost appear to be a single piece of wood), to dramatic effects with figured grain showcased, as in high-end furniture.
Once the perfect sequential slabs are chosen they are then straight-lined on one side, this is where years of experience and a critical eye are essential to getting the optimum line and the proper width for the project, For the DIY person this is definitely a moment to measure twice and cut once one wrong calculation here and the whole project might need to be reconfigured.
After being perfectly straight lined they are edge glued, aligned perfectly according to the mirrored grain by our slab specialist and clamped until dry.
We take pride in our exotic and sometimes rare book matched pieces and sequenced hardwood slabs. During the milling process, our slab specialist takes extra care to keep the logs matched and the sequential wood slabs altogether. Only the finest slabs are then inspected and chosen for bookmatching typically because of the figure of the grain or for a wide width piece.
Bookmatched slabs can be either live edge or straight lined depending on desired application.