Flitch Slab Summer Showpieces: Make a Statement with Local Timber

As summer arrives in Marlborough, there’s no better time to refresh your outdoor space, and nothing makes a bigger impact than a locally milled flitch slab. These raw, rugged slabs of timber are the perfect blend of nature and craftsmanship, offering one-of-a-kind character for your landscaping, furniture, and outdoor entertaining zones.

At TNT Milling, we mill flitch slabs that are bold by nature and beautiful by design. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or working with a landscaper, flitch slabs give you the freedom to create functional, artistic features that elevate any space.

What Is a Flitch Slab?

A flitch slab is a thick, unedged slice of timber that preserves the natural contours and grain of the tree it came from. It’s timber in its most authentic form, full of character, knots, and personality.

Our slabs are locally sourced, precision milled, and ideal for those who love a rustic, organic feel. Each slab is unique — no two are alike — making them perfect for bespoke designs and projects that deserve to stand out.

Summer Is the Season to Build

Summer is the ideal time to get creative outdoors:

• The weather’s warm and dry making it perfect for timberwork

• Longer daylight hours mean more time for projects

• Your outdoor space becomes the social centre of your home

If you’re planning a new feature or DIY job, there’s no better timber to work with than a flitch slab. It’s a talking point, a design centrepiece, and a nod to natural beauty.

Flitch Slab DIY Ideas to Inspire You

1. Rustic Garden Benches

Create a striking, weathered bench that feels like it grew from the landscape itself. Just add strong legs or concrete bases and let the slab’s natural edges do the talking. Perfect for quiet garden nooks or under a favourite tree.

2. Outdoor Bar Leaners

Hosting this summer? A flitch slab bar leaner instantly transforms your deck into an entertainer’s dream. Pair it with industrial legs, wine barrel bases, or even concrete block supports for a sturdy, head-turning centrepiece.

3. BBQ Surrounds & Prep Stations

Take your grill game up a notch with a flitch slab BBQ surround. It’s practical, heat-resistant, and offers that raw, masculine charm that suits any Kiwi BBQ setup.

4. Statement Outdoor Tables

Whether it’s a full family dining table or a small coffee table for your patio, a flitch slab makes a stunning, natural top. Coat it with a food-safe oil to preserve the grain and protect it from the elements.

5. Console Tables & Feature Shelves

Need something smaller? Flitch slabs can be cut and repurposed into slimline console tables for the entryway, or mounted as floating shelves indoors or out.

Tips for DIYers

• Plan your design around the slab, not the other way around. The natural shape gives it charm, embrace it!

• Seal and oil your slab for longevity, especially for outdoor use. Tung oil, linseed, or a marine-grade polyurethane are all good options.

• Ask us to pre-sand or rough-cut to your specifications, we’re happy to help get you started.

• Use sturdy base materials such as steel, concrete, or recycled hardwood to ensure your slab is well-supported and stable.

Why Buy Local from TNT Milling?

At TNT Milling, we know our timber. Our flitch slabs are:

• Sourced locally

• Custom milled to suit your project’s needs

• Strong and seasoned, ready for indoor or outdoor use

When you shop with us, you’re not only getting premium timber, you’re also supporting local craftsmanship, sustainability, and Marlborough’s thriving timber industry.

Start Your Project Today

Flitch slabs don’t sit around for long! Esspecially in summer.

Ready to build your own flitch masterpiece?Give us a call or head to www.tntmilling.co.nz to browse what’s in stock or request a custom size.

Let’s bring your summer showpiece to life with timber that tells a story.