How to Make a Twig Arbor
A natural rustic arbor is made from old branches and twigs usually found in the backyard. You can also create some unusual-looking natural patio furniture. Of course it's important to find the right twigs that can bend into an arch. Twigs that are dead might break before the full bending occurs. Supple and pliable twigs found on privet, willow, mulberry and birch are the best. Make sure to use the twigs within an hour after cutting for best results. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Gloves
- Sharp pruning shears
- Long tree twigs
- Bailing wire
- Wire cutters
- 4 pieces of 4-foot rebar
- Hammer
Instructions
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1
Locate long twigs and cut them off at the base with sharp pruning shears. Clean the twigs of all leaves and shoots.
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2
Bundle your two longest twigs by twisting them together and securing them with bailing wire. Add two more long twigs for support and secure them as well. Secure more twigs to one end until your bundle reaches 16 feet. Create four bundles.
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3
Hammer four pieces of 4-foot-long rebar into the ground 2 feet deep to create your arbor posts. Hammer the first two pieces into the ground 4 feet apart. Place the two remaining pieces of rebar parallel to the first two, 16 inches apart. For example: You will have two pieces of rebar on each side of a 4-foot-wide path.
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4
Tie one end of one of your twig bundles to one of the rebar posts. Continue tying each of the remaining three bundles to the remaining three rebar posts. Use the wire and secure them well.
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5
Bend down the extended branches to form an arch about 8 feet tall. You will create two arches--make sure they are the same height. Wrap bailing wire around them to keep them together. Continue to add extra twigs until you make an arch your desired thickness.
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Tips & Warnings
Wear gloves when creating your twig arbor. If the bundled twigs are not pliable for bending, make small cuts where your bend will be.
Avoid using twigs from coniferous trees, such as redwoods and pines. They do not offer the pliability needed.
