In this final segment, Ben Allen, the editor of
Outdoor Projects 1-2-3, shows how to build a simple fan-shaped trellis that easily attaches to an exterior wall.
Instructions found in Outdoor Projects 1-2-3:The fan-shaped trellis branches are cut out in a classic design that mimics the shape of a tree and provides a pleasing alternative to rectangular-shaped trellises. Because there is no frame, this type of trellis is not as strong as the framed variety.
The fan trellis here is made with five uprights of rot-resistant 1 x 1/4 lumber that are fastened together at the bottom with two galvanized carriage bolts. Three crosspieces, also strips of rot-resistant 1 x 1/4, hold the uprights in position. For better flexibility, bend the wood in the same direction the grain travels along the edge of the board.
Eight pieces of 1 x 1/4 lumber make up this fan trellis. Five uprights are held together at the bottom with two carriage bolts. Three crosspieces of different lengths hold the uprights in the fan position. They are attached to the uprights with galvanized 3d (1-1/4 inch) nails. For a customized fan trellis, you can modify the dimensions given.
Materials:
fourteen 1 x 1/4, 8 ft. in length treated wood if possible (1 x 1 if other size not available)
2 clamps
drill with bits
1 box bolts
1 box finish nails
hammer
square
Steps:
- Screw a miter box securely to a sturdy surface such as a workbench. Trim the five uprights to length, in this case, 6 feet, at the same time. Cut three crosspieces to lengths of 4 feet, 3 feet, and 2 feet.
- Stack the uprights and clamp them together. With a square, lay out holes for 1/4 x 4-inch carriage bolts 3 inches and 6 inches from the bottom. Drill 1/4-inch holes through the uprights at these points. Install carriage bolts with washers and nuts, tightening with a wrench.
- Mark the two outside uprights where the crosspieces will be nailed. The top crosspiece is 1 inch from the top of the uprights. The middle crosspiece is 19 inches from the top crosspiece, and the bottom crosspiece is 14 inches below the middle one.
- Measure and make marks on the top crosspiece to show where the uprights will cross it. Start with marks 1 inch from each end. Place another mark in the center of the crosspiece and two other marks 1 foot on each side of the center mark.
- Line up the center of each upright with the matching marks on the top crosspiece, Bore pilot holes in the crosspiece to prevent the thin wood from splitting. Nail the crosspiece to the uprights with galvanized 3d (1-1/4 inch) nails.
- Place the middle crosspiece at its marks on the uprights. Square the crosspiece with the center upright. Bore pilot holes and nail the crosspiece in place.
- Follow the same procedure to install the bottom crosspiece. To hang the trellis on a wall, refer to instructions on page 312 of Outdoor Projects 1-2-3.
Resources building, home-improvement tools and materials
The Home Depot U.S.A. Inc.
Website:
www.homedepot.comThe Home Depot Outdoor Projects 1-2-3
by Home Depot; Ben Allen, Editor (ISBN: 0696206730)
Meredith Books, 1998
Order this
title.
Meredith Books
Website:
www.meredith.com Guests Ben Allen
Executive Editor, Meredith Corporation, 1-2-3 Books
Headquarters
1716 Locust St.
Des Moines, IA 50309-3023
Phone: 515-284-2415
Toll-free: 800-678-8091
E-mail:
HI123@mdp.com
Also in this Episode
)
