From Tree to Crib: Handmade Crib Made from 140-Year-Old Chestnut Tree

In the serene enclave of Gig Harbor, WA, stood a magnificent American Chestnut tree that had witnessed 140 years of changing seasons. This towering giant in the backyard of a family’s home was more than just a tree—it was an integral part of their history. The tree had provided shade for countless summer afternoons and had been an adventurous climbing spot for their daughter, Gracie. When the tree fell in 2019, the family knew its wood held stories that deserved to be preserved.

Harvesting lumber from this cherished tree was not merely an act of resourcefulness for the family but a way to keep the tree’s memory alive. They dried the wood with care, knowing that, someday, it would find a new purpose. Little did they know that purpose would present itself when their daughter, Gracie, approached them with a heartfelt request.

Expecting her first child, Gracie envisioned something deeply personal and meaningful for her baby. She asked her parents if they could craft a crib from the tree’s wood that had been so important to her childhood. The family embraced the task with joy and passion, eager to create something that carried the legacy of the once mighty chestnut tree.

Constructing the crib was a labor of love and meticulous craftsmanship. Every cut, every joint, and every sanded surface was undertaken with the utmost care. They wanted the crib to be not only sturdy and safe but also a beautiful tribute to the tree and to their granddaughter, Mari.

For the finishing touches, the family turned to WOCA Woodcare products, specifically choosing WOCA Wood Lye and WOCA Worktop Oil in white. These products were known for their ability to enhance the natural beauty of the wood while also providing a durable finish that would stand the test of time. The application of WOCA Wood Lye highlighted the wood’s rich, natural grain. At the same time, the White Worktop Oil added a soft, elegant finish that made the crib look both timeless and contemporary.

The results were nothing short of spectacular. The crib embodied the family’s resourcefulness, and the love and history shared between three generations. Their granddaughter, Mari, now six months old, has already spent restful nights in her new crib. According to her parents, she has never slept so well.

The choice of WOCA Woodcare products was important and thought out for the safety and beauty of the crib. Beyond aesthetics, the Worktop Oil needed to be food contact safe. Knowing babies have an uncanny ability to explore with their mouths, a finish that was completely harmless if ingested was needed. WOCA Worktop Oil not only adheres firmly to the wood, preventing chipping or peeling, but it also carries the prestigious EN 71-3 certification. This certification means it has undergone rigorous testing to make sure it's free from harmful metals. Ultimately, WOCA offered the perfect balance of safety, durability, and beauty, making it the top choice for a baby's crib.

In the end, this project became more than just woodworking; it intertwined family history and future. It’s a story of how something as simple as a fallen tree can be reborn into an object of beauty and significance, especially with the right materials and a touch of craftsmanship. This crib will undoubtedly become a treasured family heirloom, passed down through generations, and we at WOCA Woodcare are humbled and grateful that we could play a role in making that possible.

For those considering their own woodworking projects, this family’s experience serves as a beautiful example of how using high-quality finishes can elevate any piece. It’s not just about preserving the wood; it’s about enhancing its natural beauty and ensuring its longevity.

From a home in Gig Harbor, amidst the whispers of family tales and childhood memories, came a crib that is more than just furniture. It is a testament to love, history, and the meticulous art of woodcraft—an heirloom that will cradle dreams and memories for generations to come.