Building a Copper Arbor

Build a custom copper arbor for less than $100.

A custom copper arbor makes a great focal point in the garden, especially with beautiful blooming vines climbing up the sides.

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Arbors are a great invitation into the garden, and you've probably seen plenty of them in all shapes and sizes. Host Rebecca Kolls made one out of copper for just over $100. It's a great backyard project.

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 and Tools:

(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

Steps:

1. 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.

2. 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.

Lay out the pipe sections into your desired design.

3. Once the pieces are cut, label them alphabetically so that they correspond to your diagram. This will help keep everything in order. Now you're ready to start building.

4. 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.

5. 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.