DIY Timber Projects You Can Create with Our Slabs and Flitches

Transform Raw Timber into Something Uniquely Yours

Making things with your own hands brings a deep sense of fulfillment — when you work with genuine New Zealand timber. At Plankville, our slabs and flitches offer more than just wood — they provide the foundation for your next masterpiece.

You might envision building a live edge dining table, a country-style bench, or even a timber accent wall. Each project starts with a slab rich in natural beauty, character, and history. Our timbers, often native and reclaimed from local sources, tell a story that adds coziness and individuality to your home.

If you've been looking for live edge timber NZ or DIY timber furniture NZ, you've come to the right spot. Let's check out how you can turn our slabs and flitches into beautiful unique pieces.

What Are Slabs and Flitches (and Why They're Great for DIY Projects)

It helps to understand what makes these materials special before you start building.

Timber slabs are wide thick wood cuts often showing off the natural edges and grain patterns of their source tree. They're ideal for projects where you want to show the timber's raw natural beauty.

Flitches however, are skinnier milled pieces that keep more of the bark edge — making them perfect for country-style furniture or imaginative décor elements.

At Plankville, we offer a broad selection of flitches and slabs in various sizes, types, and finishes. From macrocarpa and rimu to oak, walnut, and beyond — each item is one-of-a-kind set for smoothing, protecting, or molding into something extraordinary.

Creative Projects That Spark Ideas

Here's how you can turn your DIY dreams into reality with Plankville's slabs and flitches.

1. Live Edge Dining or Coffee Table

Not many pieces of furniture have an impact on a room like a live edge table. The uneven raw edge brings nature indoors — ideal for Kiwi homes that value a link to the outdoors. Add basic steel or wood legs, and you've got a one-of-a-kind centerpiece that's on par with designer furniture.

Tip: Combine your project with our timber finishing services to make sure your tabletop is sleek, long-lasting, and shielded.

2. Rustic Benches to Use Inside or Outside

A solid wood bench looks great and serves a purpose. Use a macrocarpa slab to create outdoor seating — it stands up to weather on its own — or build an entryway bench that shows off your skills.

Put together a strong flitch top with legs made from reclaimed wood, and you'll end up with a classic piece that's built to stand the test of time.

3. Wall Shelves and Floating Mantels

Flitches work great for floating shelves or mantelpieces. Their uneven natural edge brings texture and warmth to modern spaces. You can finish these projects in a weekend and they'll change the look of a room right away.

Match your shelves with planter boxes or garden beds that have a similar style to add even more natural texture to your home.

4. Headboards and Feature Walls

Do you want a bedroom that feels down-to-earth and cozy? Use several slabs or flitches side by side to make a headboard or accent wall. You'll end up with a handmade centerpiece that shows off real Kiwi style.

5. Home Décor Touches

You can turn even the leftover pieces into something unique — holders for candles, frames for pictures, or boards for serving. These smaller creations make great gifts and help you use every bit of wood.

If you enjoy trying new things, you'll discover countless ways to make your home feel more personal with Plankville wood.

Come to Plankville and Begin Your Project Today

Whether you're new to DIY or an experienced creator, you should start by looking at and touching the wood yourself. At Plankville, you can browse our yard, talk to our staff, and select the ideal piece for your work. We also provide custom cuts, planes, and finishes so your wood is ready for your project from the beginning.

👉 Want to begin construction? Check out our Flitches & Slabs page or get in touch with us to find out more. Share your concepts — we'll assist you in finding the wood that brings them to life.

Why Choose Plankville?

• sourced & sustainable timber: Our slabs and flitches showcase the innate beauty of New Zealand wood.

• Tailored services: We assist in transforming raw timber into materials ready for construction ranging from milling to finishing.

• Creative community: We enjoy seeing our customers' creations — from garden sheds to custom-made furniture. Visit Plankville in Action to get inspired by other DIY enthusiasts.

Conclusion

You don't need to buy your next project from a flat-pack store. Plankville's slabs and flitches allow you to build furniture and decorations that have character, sustainability, and a personal flair.

Every knot, curve, and mark in the wood has a tale to tell — and now, that tale can become part of your home.

👉 Begin your DIY timber adventure today at Plankville.

---

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• What uses does live edge timber have?

  People use live edge timber to create furniture that shows off the tree's natural edge — like tables, benches, and shelves. It brings out organic shapes and adds warmth to your home.

• How do I prepare slabs for furniture?

  Sand your slab until it's smooth then protect it with oil or polyurethane. Plankville also offers timber finishing services to help you achieve a professional look.

• Can I use slabs and flitches outdoors?

   Yes — hardwoods or tough species like macrocarpa work well. To make them last longer, use an exterior-grade finish and keep them off the ground.

• Where can I buy live edge timber in NZ?

  You can check out and purchase top-quality live edge timber and slabs straight from Plankville in New Zealand.

• What's the difference between a slab and a flitch?

  A slab is a wide thick cut from the log, while a flitch is thinner and often keeps more of the bark edge. Both work great for rustic or natural designs.