A client had a large yew bush cut down on their property and brought me a slab from the stump to use for an outdoor table. Since it was freshly cut, it had to dry for a year or so on my racks before it was ready for use. After it had dried, I put it on my router sled and flattened it out. 

Using a chisel, I carefully removed all the bark from the slab to reveal the beautiful live edge underneath. 

I designed this simple metal base for the table and my friend John Parker of The Painted Garden, Inc fabricated it for me. 

After it was sanded completely smooth and had many coats of spar urethane applied, the table was ready for use. 

Outside in the sun, the colors really come to life. 

Looking down the live edge. The creamy white of the sapwood contrasts beautifully with the red heartwood of this yew slab. 

Looking straight down at the top, it's easy to see why I call this piece the "Africa Yew Table."