Using Small Timber Pieces

At Elephant Timber, we believe that every piece of timber has potential, no matter how small. While large slabs are perfect for creating beautiful wood slab tables or countertops, small timber pieces, including live edge offcuts and railway sleeper offcuts, offer incredible versatility for woodworking enthusiasts, crafters and artisans alike. These smaller pieces allow you to bring creativity and craftsmanship to life in a variety of projects. 

Creative uses for small timber pieces – transforming offcuts into stunning projects

Small timber pieces are incredibly versatile and can be used in a range of applications. Live edge offcuts, with their natural contours, can bring a rustic elegance to even the simplest pieces, giving your woodworking a distinctive, organic feel. If you are working with railway sleeper offcuts, their robust character and weathered appearance create an industrial flair. 

Below are some inspiring ways to put small timber pieces to use, helping you make the most of every cut of wood.

• Wooden accents for furniture – add a personal touch to your wood slab tables, cabinets, or shelves by incorporating small timber pieces. Whether you are working with a live edge offcut or a railway sleeper offcut, these can be used for drawer fronts, trims, or decorative inlays, allowing you to customise your furniture design. 
• Craft, carving and artisan work – for those who enjoy woodworking as a hobby, small live edge wood pieces are ideal for creating intricate designs or custom gifts. Their manageable size makes them perfect for detailed carving and crafting. Live edge offcuts and railway sleeper offcuts can be easily shaped and carved into smaller works of art, including intricate sculptures, bespoke cutting boards, handmade signs and custom coasters. These smaller pieces allow for fine detail work, and the distinctive grains of the wood only enhance the final piece. 
• Joinery and fittings – our small timber pieces are often used in joinery projects as they can provide the structural strength needed for practical applications, while maintaining the beauty of natural wood. If you are working on a larger project, small railway sleeper offcuts can be used in joinery or as structural components. These offcuts are perfect for creating custom supports, brackets, or reinforcing larger pieces of furniture. Their strength and density make them particularly useful for load-bearing projects, ensuring your creations are built to last. 
• Cutting boards and coasters – small live edge off cuts can be transformed into functional and practical items, while making the most of every bit of timber. Consider turning live edge offcuts into unique serving trays, coasters, or kitchen utensils. Their sturdy, yet beautiful nature makes them ideal for practical uses while still showcasing the natural wood grain. For a more rustic appeal, railway sleeper offcuts are perfect for creating sturdy, weather-resistant items such as garden planters, small outdoor tables, or benches. These pieces are durable and functional, making them ideal for outdoor or high-traffic areas.
• Home décor and accessories – the natural beauty and unique grains of small timber pieces make them ideal for handcrafted home accessories and stylish home décor items. Live edge offcuts are a fantastic material for crafting one-of-a-kind home accessories, such as picture frames, wall art, or even bespoke shelving. Their raw, natural edges add visual interest and a sense of rustic charm that is hard to replicate. Railway sleeper offcuts can be transformed into stunning décor pieces, such as rustic coat hooks, small benches, or even garden furniture. 
• Upcycling and Sustainability Projects – using live edge offcuts and railway sleeper offcuts is an excellent way to reduce waste and embrace sustainable practices in your woodworking. These small pieces of timber can be repurposed into all sorts of items, breathing new life into discarded wood. Whether you are transforming old timber into stylish home accessories or creating practical tools, small timber pieces allow you to give new value to something that would otherwise go unused.

Transform small timber pieces into big creations

The possibilities for small timber pieces are virtually endless. Whether you are working with live edge offcuts, railway sleeper offcuts, or other small timber pieces, there is no shortage of creative ways to incorporate them into your projects. From custom furniture to unique décor and functional items, these smaller pieces offer a great opportunity to create something truly special. 

Visit our online shop

We provide carefully selected timber that is perfect for these types of projects, ensuring that you have the quality materials needed to bring your vision to life. If you are ready to explore the endless possibilities of small timber pieces, visit our online shop to find the perfect offcuts for your next woodworking project.