Create Your Own Trellis
Build and Install Garden Architecture With DIY Bamboo Trellises
May 14, 2008
They have really come a long way from the simple trellis style of the past. There are different shapes and sizes that stem from the traditional fan with crossbars, obelisks, ladders, and frames. The shape and size for you is really dependent on what you are using it for. You may want to train an apple tree to spread flat outward in order to create a fence portion (espalier) or have an obelisk for your morning glories to climb. Trellises can be purely decorative or functional as well as decorative.
If you have been looking at what is available you will have noticed something else too. It doesn't matter if they are made of wood, metal or bamboo, they are very pricey. As crafters, creating an original is always a good motivation. Saving money on top of that is always a plus.
Today's project trellises are going to use bamboo because the end product will look great with very little expense and effort.
As with everything there are places to purchase bamboo that will cost you dearly. If you watch the discount stores you will be surprised to find you can get a dozen bamboo rods measuring four feet in height for as little as four dollars a bundle. A dozen bamboo rods measuring two feet in length can be had for as low as two dollars. The only other materials you will need is jute, scissors, wire, wire cutters, measuring tape and a hack or coping saw.
To create a ladder trellis:
Use two four-foot bamboo rods and three two-foot rods. Cut the two-foot rods in half. This will give you six rungs for your ladder. This is not for people to climb. Since it is only for vines to climb, it does not have to hold a lot of weight. Lay out the two long rods. Distribute the shorter rods across the long rods so that there is an overlap. At each intersection wire the joints together. When they are all joined, go back and wrap each joint with jute and tie off.
To create an obelisk:
Gather up six of the two foot rods. Take some time to wire all six pieces together on top securely. Spread out the bottom of the rods tepee style. Wrap the wire with jute and tie off.
To create a fan trellis:
Take five four-foot long rods. Cut two of the rods down to 44 inches and cut two down to 40 inches in height. Lay the rods out with the longest rod in the center and the shortest rods on the outer edges. Bring the bottom of the rods together while spreading out the top of the rods. Lay four two-foot rods across the fan. If you fanned them wide, use four-foot rods for the upper crossbars. Saw off the extra without removing all of the overlap. Wire each intersection and cover with jute.
Try creating your own design for something uniquely you.
