Our Process

From salvaged trees to finished pieces, every step is intentional

Our approach to making products is simple – less is more. The less wood has to be worked the more its natural beauty can be preserved. In the tradition of George Nakashima, we are drawn to saving the natural or “live” edge of the trees we mill. This live edge gives our furniture a soft natural flowing quality that is both beautiful and comfortable.

Sourcing the wood

1.

Large salvaged hardwood log in front of a New England colonial home, ready for reclamation by Vermont Tree Goods

Salvaged, Not Harvested

We begin with trees that have been removed for safety or health reasons, not for lumber production. Many of these trees would otherwise be discarded, despite being over 100 years old and rich in character. By reclaiming this wood, we reduce waste, sequester carbon, and give new life to material that would have been lost. We are fortunate to be based in Vermont, which has a tremendous variety of hardwood species. Each has its own wide range of unique and beautiful characteristics, some of which are only to be found in the fully matured trees with which we work.

2.

Milling

Freshly milled live edge hardwood slabs on storage racks in the Vermont Tree Goods warehouse

Cut to Reveal the Character

Each log is milled into slabs that preserve the natural grain, shape, and live edge of the tree. This stage is where the raw material begins to take form, with every cut made to highlight the wood’s unique features.

Drying and Preparation

3.

Stacks of live edge hardwood lumber stickered and bundled for air drying at Vermont Tree Goods

Prepared to Last

The wood is carefully dried and stabilized to ensure long-term durability. This process takes time, but it is essential to creating pieces that can handle everyday use without compromising integrity.

The Design Phase

4.

Three live edge hardwood slabs laid out on the showroom floor during the design phase at Vermont Tree Goods

Designed With Your Space in Mind

Every project starts with your vision. We work with you to determine dimensions, style, and function, ensuring the final piece fits seamlessly into your home, workspace, or commercial setting.

Crafting the Piece

5.

Handcrafted with Precision

Each piece is shaped, assembled, and finished by hand. Whether it’s a countertop, table, or fully custom build, the focus is on durability, clean design, and highlighting the natural character of the wood.

Lead Artisan at vermont tree goods finish sanding a twelve foot maple bar top.

Delivery and Installation

6.

a handcrafted maple countertop with a vase of fresh flowers, recently installed in a new home

Ready for Everyday Use

The final step is sanding, sealing, and finishing the piece to protect the wood while enhancing its natural look. Once complete, your project is delivered or installed, ready to be used and enjoyed for years to come.

Your order, from start to finish:

  • Visit Our Showroom

    Schedule an appointment or walk into our showroom in Wallingford, CT to explore the products, slabs, and custom build possibilities we have to offer.

  • Choose Your Slab

    You’re part of the process. Whether you want a raw slab or a finished product come take a look through our 1k+ slab collection to find the right fit for your project, and we can cut and adjust your slab as needed.

  • Create Your Vision

    We work with you to define the details, from dimensions and layout to finish and style. Whether you have a clear idea or need guidance, we help shape a design that fits your space and how you plan to use it.

  • Built and Delivered

    Once the design is finalized, we craft and finish the piece by hand, with attention to durability, detail, and the natural character of the wood. Your project is then delivered or installed, ready to be used and enjoyed for years to come.

Start Your Project Today

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