How to Build a Fort

Growing up in or near a forest can be quite the blessing! To awaken your sense of adventure, as well as sharpen your carpentry skills, build a secret fort in the heart of the woods where you and your friends can play and enjoy nature at its best!

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Enthusiasm

1. Scope out the perfect location.
   First and foremost, you and your friends must voyage through a nearby forest to find the perfect place to build your fort! You can build on the ground or in a tree if you like. If building in a tree, make sure it is safe to go up and down, and that there is a big enough area inside the branches where you and your friends can hang out comfortably.
2. Find a "secret agent."
   Since this may be your first time building and you want to make sure that the fort turns out perfectly, ask an adult to be your "secret agent." Explain to him or her what you want to build and politely ask if he wants to take part in this top-secret operation.
3. Plan your fort.
   Construct a plan with the help of your friends and "secret agent." Be creative so that your fort is truly unique!
4. Gather materials.
   If you and your friends have saved up a "fort-building fund," go to the local lumber store and use the money you've saved to buy wood for the walls and floor of your fort. Your "secret agent" can drive you(!), and he may have extra nails and wood that you can use. See "Tips" section below for more ideas on how to gather materials.
5. Transport materials.
   Take your materials to your fort location using a wagon or wheelbarrow. Your "secret agent" may be able to drive them over! Make sure to have a water-proof cover over your materials when you leave in case it rains.
6. Start building.
   Consult your plan and start building. Take helpful hints from your "secret agent." He knows a lot about building things and the fort will look really cool. Stay positive, be safe and have fun!!!
7. Grand Opening.
   Throw a party once the fort is finished. You can even have a ribbon-cutting ceremony!!

Tips & Warnings

• Maple trees are very good for building forts!
• If there are any houses being built in your neighborhood, you and your friends can ask the construction workers if they have any left-over scraps or nails you can use to build your fort.
• Strong tree branches can be used for railings and extra fort support.
• Choose a location that is not too far away from your home. You want to be able to get to and from quickly!
• Be sure to have your "secret agent" close-by when building.