Building a Copper Arbor

Before you begin, purchase the materials. Take safety precautions; wear safety glasses and/or a surgical mask when recommended. Work in a well ventilated area.

Materials
(Note: amount of materials needed depend on the size of the copper arbor you choose to make)

copper pipe (Rebecca used 3/4-in. pipe on the outside of the arbor, with 1/2-in. pipe on the inside)
T-joints
elbow joints and/or 45-degree angle joints
slow-setting epoxy
steel wool
black felt-tip pen
copper cutter
ruler
level

Step 1: Preparing your plan
Start by putting your idea on paper. Whatever pattern you choose, be very precise with your measurements. The completed arbor should be wide enough for two people to comfortably stand beneath, and once in the ground it should stand at least seven feet tall. Keep in mind that you'll need to sink about 18 inches of pipe into the ground to hold the arbor securely in place. Allow for this measurement when calculating the desired height of your arbor; otherwise it will be too short.

Step 2: Cutting the pipe
Now it's time to cut the pipe into sections according to the measurements in your diagram. Your numbers need to be exact, so mark each copper piece carefully. Then it's time for the pipe cutter. It's best if you mark and cut small sections as you go, rather than cutting everything all at once, to guarantee accuracy.

Step 4: Building the arbor
Start building the arbor from the inside out. Starting with the inside pieces, simply brush the epoxy glue on the outer rim of each copper pipe, and then attach it to the adjoining piece. Once the center is done, begin building from the bottom up. It takes a while to glue everything together, so be patient with this project. Using the same method, finish making the two sides of the arbor. Then make the top. The arbor will seem a little tall, but remember that you're going to sink it in the ground about 18 inches.

Step 5: Putting it up
To ensure stability, dig the holes where you want to put your arbor before you sink it into the ground. Then check for straightness with a level. Place the sides and attach the top of the arbor. Do this using the same procedure you used to build the sides.

Copper will weather with time and take on a beautiful green patina. If you want to quicken the process, clean the copper with steel wool to get rid of any leftover oils.

Plant some beautiful vining flowers such as clematis, honeysuckle or even mandevilla. In no time, these flowers will spill over the arbor, giving you a wonderful entryway to your garden.