Tutorial: Tree Stump Root Table

If you've ever passed a fallen tree, cut into little stumps, and waiting by the curb, you might just be looking at your newest piece of furniture! Furniture and decor made out of organic material (wood, stone, wicker, etc) like this can fit into any decor style and will elevate any room.

Supply List

Dried-out tree stump (drive around a day or two after a storm and you're guaranteed to see stumps on the side of the road somewhere!)

Detail Sander

Sandpaper in 80, 120, 180, and 220 grit

Tung Oil

Wood chisel or flathead screwdriver

Clean Rags or paper towels

Disposable gloves

Respirator Mask

Safety Goggles

Moisture meter

BEFORE STARTING: Tree trunks can contain lots of bugs, including termites. Carefully inspect the stump for termites, and then leave it to sit in a garage or covered area for at least 6 months to dry out. Otherwise, it will be very, very heavy and could potentially leak water or sap onto your floor.

Tutorial:

1. Confirm that there are no bugs. Check for small holes, active bugs, and frass (droppings that look like sawdust). You can put the stump in a large contractor bag with pest deterrent if you're unsure (such as borax or diatomaceous earth)

2. Make sure your stump is dried out. You can use a moisture meter for peace of mind and confirm that it is under 15% moisture.

3. Use a wood chisel or screwdriver to pry off any remaining bark. It should come off easily!

   

   I used a screwdriver to pry off the bark

4. Put on your mask and goggles. Start with a 60 or 80 grit sandpaper and remove any fibrous areas left beneath the bark. Depending on the type of wood, you can also sand off any bumps or knobs (I chose to leave mine intact for character!).

   

5. Work your way up from 80 grit, 120, 180, to 220 grit, using the pointed end of the detail sander in any nooks and crannies. Be prepared to replace your sandpaper every 5-10 minutes. I used about 5 80-grit sandpapers.

6. Once it is smooth, remove any excess dust, then apply tung oil with a clean rag. You'll want to wear your disposable gloves for this. Let it dry 24 hours, then apply a second coat.

   

   
   
   
   
   
   

What I love most about this project is that no two root tables will be exactly alike! They all hold character from the tree that they came from - knots, rings, cracks, and all! This little piece of nature will add so much warmth and charm.

If you try this, let me know! Tag me @MelissaAshleyMeares so I can see your creations! xoxo,

Melissa