Removing bark from a live edge can be an essential step in preparing wood for crafting unique furniture pieces, artwork, or other projects. The process not only enhances the wood’s natural beauty but also ensures a smoother surface for finishing and prevents potential issues caused by trapped moisture or pests. While it may seem like a daunting task, with the right tools and techniques, stripping bark from live edge wood can be straightforward and rewarding. This guide will walk you through the basics of how to get bark off live edge.
Why Remove Bark from Live Edge Wood
Removing bark from live edge wood is a crucial step for both aesthetic and practical reasons. First and foremost, bark can harbor insects, mold, or fungi that may compromise the quality and longevity of the wood. Stripping the bark helps eliminate these risks and ensures a cleaner, more durable material.
Additionally, removing the bark reveals the natural grain and texture of the wood, enhancing its visual appeal and allowing for more precise finishing techniques. Without bark, the live edge surface becomes smoother and easier to work with, making it ideal for crafting furniture or decorative pieces. Lastly, it prevents the bark from eventually separating from the wood over time, which can occur naturally as the wood dries and shrinks.
When Is the Best Time to Remove Bark
The best time to remove bark is when the wood is freshly cut and still green. At this stage, the bark is much easier to separate from the wood because the sap within the tree has not yet dried out, keeping the surface beneath the bark moist and pliable. Removing the bark shortly after cutting also helps prevent pests or mold from infiltrating the moist layers of wood, ensuring a cleaner and smoother surface for further use.
If removing bark from older or dried wood, soaking the bark-covered section in water can help loosen it, although the process may be more labor-intensive. Planning to remove the bark at the right time not only saves effort but also helps preserve the quality of the material.
10 Methods How to Get Bark off Live Edge
1. Use a Drawknife for Controlled Peeling
A drawknife is a traditional tool that works wonders for removing bark from live edge wood. With two handles and a sharp blade, it allows for controlled, precise peeling along the natural contours of the slab. Start by placing the slab on a sturdy surface, securing it if necessary. Hold the drawknife at a low angle and pull toward you in smooth, shallow strokes. Be mindful of the pressure—too much force can gouge the wood beneath. This method is ideal for wood that has been air-dried and where the bark has loosened naturally. The drawknife allows for clean removal without damaging the sapwood.
2. Use a Chisel and Mallet for Tough or Knotty Sections
Some areas, especially near knots or crotches, may resist peeling. In such cases, a chisel and mallet provide the leverage and precision needed to chip away stubborn bark. Select a wide, sharp chisel and tap gently with a wooden or rubber mallet to avoid slipping. Work slowly, angling the chisel to follow the wood’s grain and avoid digging into the surface. This method works best in combination with other techniques and is particularly useful for cleaning up the last bits of bark that other tools miss.
3. Try a Pressure Washer for Recently Cut or Wet Wood
If you’re working with freshly cut slabs where the bark is still tight, a pressure washer can help loosen and remove it efficiently. Set the pressure washer to a medium setting—too high may damage the wood, and too low might not remove the bark effectively. Hold the nozzle at an angle and spray along the grain, working systematically down the slab. The water pressure penetrates the layers between the bark and sapwood, lifting them apart. This method works best on wood that hasn’t dried out completely and can be especially useful for large batches of logs or slabs.
4. Use a Bark Spud for Efficient Removal on Green Wood
A bark spud is a long-handled tool with a wide, flat blade designed specifically for separating bark from logs. It’s especially effective on green or recently cut wood where the cambium layer (between bark and wood) is still moist. To use it, slide the blade between the bark and the sapwood and push steadily along the length of the slab. It requires less effort than a drawknife for large sections and is ideal for working in outdoor settings. For fresh timber, a bark spud can dramatically reduce the time spent removing bark by hand.
5. Let the Bark Loosen Naturally Over Time
Sometimes, the most efficient method is patience. As slabs dry, the bark often begins to separate naturally from the sapwood due to shrinkage. If you have the luxury of time, simply allow your live edge slabs to air dry for several months or even a year, depending on the thickness and species. When the bark begins to crack or pull away from the edges, it can often be removed easily by hand or with a plastic scraper. This method ensures minimal damage to the wood and requires little effort, though it’s not ideal if you’re on a tight schedule.
6. Use a Heat Gun to Soften Resinous Bark
In species like pine or cedar, bark can be sticky and resinous, clinging tightly even after drying. A heat gun can help soften these resins and allow for easier bark removal. Set the heat gun to a moderate temperature and pass it slowly over the bark to warm the resin. Once softened, use a scraper or drawknife to peel the bark away. Be cautious not to overheat or scorch the wood. This method is particularly useful when working indoors or on smaller projects that demand a cleaner finish.
7. Scrape with a Wire Brush for Fine Clean-Up
After the bulk of the bark is removed, you’ll often be left with residual fibers or cambium that cling to the live edge. A stiff wire brush—manual or drill-mounted—can be used to clean these up and smooth the transition from sapwood to edge. Brush along the grain, not across it, to preserve the natural lines of the slab. Be consistent but gentle, as aggressive scrubbing can scratch or score the surface. This method is excellent for preparing the slab before sanding or finishing and ensures a clean, professional result.
8. Use a Handheld Oscillating Multi-Tool with Scraper Attachment
For those with access to power tools, an oscillating multi-tool equipped with a scraper blade can make bark removal faster and easier. The rapid back-and-forth motion of the tool allows for controlled removal without applying excessive force. Glide the blade along the separation line between bark and wood, letting the tool do the work. This is especially helpful for uneven or hard-to-reach areas, and it’s a time-saver on slabs with inconsistent bark thickness. Always wear eye protection when using power tools for this task.
9. Sand the Live Edge to Refine and Finish
Once the bark is removed, sanding is essential to refine the live edge. Begin with a coarse grit (such as 60 or 80) to knock down any rough fibers or tool marks. Follow up with finer grits (120–220) to smooth the surface and prepare it for finishing. Sanding enhances the contrast between heartwood and sapwood and can highlight the natural beauty of the edge. A flexible sanding sponge can be helpful for following the curves and contours of the live edge without flattening them.
10. Apply Finish to Stabilize and Highlight the Edge
After all bark is removed and sanding is complete, applying a clear finish or oil helps stabilize the wood and enhance its appearance. Options include tung oil, Danish oil, polyurethane, or epoxy, depending on your intended use and desired sheen. Applying finish also seals the live edge, reducing moisture exchange and preventing future cracking or checking. Use a brush or cloth to apply, ensuring the finish reaches deep into the grain and edge crevices. Finishing brings the live edge to life, showcasing its natural character and protecting it for years to come.
Conclusion
Removing bark from live edge wood is both an art and a process of adaptation. Different species, moisture levels, and slab sizes all call for slightly different approaches. Whether you’re using a drawknife, pressure washer, heat gun, or letting time do the work, the goal is to respect the wood’s natural form while preparing it for use in your project. These ten methods provide a comprehensive guide for safely and efficiently removing bark while maintaining the rustic integrity that makes live edge wood so distinctive. Thanks for reading, and we hope this has given you some inspiration on how to get bark off live edge!
