Because of the Internet, more and more people are learning new skills, one of which is woodworking. The list of things you can make out of wood is pretty much endless. One thing you can make that can add a creative flair to your home is a wooden garden arbor.
What is a Garden Arbor?
Garden arbors are great for dressing up a garden pathway or framing a beautiful view. They are those arch-like structures, mostly made from wood, that are placed in gardens or backyard paths. To make them stand out, professionals recommend selecting plants that will enhance the look of arbors. Vines such as cypress vine or morning glory are among the best choices.
How Do You Build a Wooden Garden Arbor?
Before anything else, review your woodworking plan to check for all the materials and tools you’ll need. Make sure to familiarize yourself with these, or just bring the plan with you to show at the store. This will help you purchase the right materials.
STEP 1
Choose which wood to use. There are different types of wood, and each has its own properties such as color, rigidity, grain, etc. Make sure to select rot-resistant wood such as redwood or cedar. These two are popular because they require minimal maintenance.
STEP 2
Start digging the holes where the posts for your arbor will go. It is recommended to dig holes until they are 18 inches deep. Fill the holes with gravel to about 6 inches. The gravel will serve as drainage, preventing the wood from rotting too early.
STEP 3
Start cutting your lumber to the length indicated in the woodworking plan. Note that upright posts don’t usually need much cutting. For decorative holes along the top poles, you can simply draw a line on where you’d like the 30-degree cut to go and just drill using a 1-inch flat bit.
Note that some stores offer cutting lumber for a minimum fee. This may be a good option for beginners.
STEP 4
If you haven’t bought pre-cut deck spindles, start cutting some up from 2×2 lumber using a 45-degree bevel. Note that not all woodworking plans for wooden garden arbors require spindles. Some plans, however, will suggest buying precut spindles to save time.
STEP 5
Assemble the trellis. Start by placing all four posts side-by-side on the ground. Using a pencil, mark the areas where you’ll be attaching the lattice. Do this for all four posts.
Next, lay two of the posts on the ground at about 2 feet apart (the distance varies depending on the plan). Attach the lath pieces with nails in a manner as though you are constructing a ladder. After doing so, attach the bottom and top lath pieces. Note that it’s better to predrill holes on the lattice to prevent cracks while nailing.
After installing the horizonal lattice, start installing the diagonal ones. Repeat until assembly is complete.
STEP 6
Start assembling the top by installing the top rails with 3-inch screws. Screw in the decorative brackets if you have them.
STEP 7
Coat the garden arbor with paint in the color of your choice. Another option is to use wood stain for a more polished and professional look. Note that when using paint, it’s recommended to coat the surface first with primer before painting.
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