Very seldomly seen in any woodworking, White Paper Birch has an amazing and unusual color profile spanning light yellows to deep browns with thin lines running left to right. The amazing color transition you see in these coasters is the natural demarkation between the Sapwood (light) and Heartwood (dark) of the tree. The sapwood is alive and delivering nutrients to the tree right under the bark while the heartwood which used to be sapwood has largely dried out and imparts a strong core to the tree to withstand its weight and wind. These coasters are quite unusual and beautiful.

The design of my coaster sets starts with the overall shape, reminiscent of the sun (the coasters) setting over mountains (the stand). Practical considerations included: 1) I wanted them to be large enough to comfortably fit any glass. 2) I made them thick enough to resist warping but not so thick that they knock a glass over if it was placed over the edge. 3) I inserted a cork ring to cusion them, absorb any liquids under the coaster, and prevent scratching. 4) I finished them with a hardwax oil which offers excellent liquid protection, highlights the exceptional grain, is easily reapplied by anyone, thereby protecting them for years to come. Moreover I wanted a stand that would be as beautiful as the coasters themselves, and offer a touch of contemporary class with solid brass rod. I hope you enjoy looking at these in your home, taking a moment to appreciate how beautiful wood can be!