How to Make a Wood Trellis

Climbing plants enjoy trellis support

Known for their climbing spirit, roses, clematis, wisteria, grapes and other vigorous perennials need something to grow on. While there is a huge supply of expensive and overly decorative trellises, part of the joy of a trellis is watching it get covered up. Lucky, a simple, classic trellis isn't hard to make at home and doesn't have to cost a fortune. Just be sure to choose pressure-treated wood to withstand the many seasons your trellis will see. When it comes to making a wood trellis, the hardest part will be deciding how many to make and the best location for them.

Things You'll Need

• 4 1-by-1-inch boards, 4 1/2 feet long
• Tape measure
• Pencil
• 6 1-by-1-inch boards, 3 feet long
• Hammer and nails
• 2 2-by-2-inch boards, 6 feet long
• 2 2-by-2-inch boards, 3 feet long
• Stain or paint (optional)
• Level (optional)

Instructions

1. 

   Lay the 1-by-1-inch, 3-foot boards side by side, resting horizontally. Starting from the left end, measure in 7 inches and mark a line. Continue marking lines every 7 inches. Space the 3-foot boards 6 inches apart.

2. Lay a 4 1/2-foot board down, vertically, along the first line you marked. Place the board so that it extends above the first horizontal board by 6 inches; this will leave room for the frame. The left edge of the new board should line up with the marked line on each horizontal board. Nail one nail through each intersection point of the trellis.

3. Place the next vertical 4 1/2-foot board 6 inches above the top board like the first. Line up this board's left edge with the second line. Nail into place. Continue the process with the remaining two boards.

4. Set the trellis aside and begin creating the frame. Lay the 6-foot boards down, 3 feet apart. Measure and mark a spot 6 inches down from the top. Place one of the 3-foot long, 2-by-2-inch boards to align with the 6-inch mark on both boards. Nail the top board to the sides.

5. Bring the trellis back and insert it into the frame. Make sure the top of the trellis is butted up against the top frame board. Nail through the frame into each point the trellis comes into contact with the frame. There should be four points along the top, and six points on each side.

6. Push the bottom 2-by-2-inch board into place. Align the bottom up against the trellis. Nail the bottom to the sides and then attach to the four trellis boards. If desired, use exterior paint or stain to finish the trellis.

7. Choose the location you want for the trellis and push the base into the ground. Use a level, if desired, to be sure your trellis is set evenly. Plant any climbing perennials as desired and train them to use the trellis as they grow.

Tips & Warnings

• For a more rustic look, weave string or leather cording around each intersection in a figure eight pattern after the boards have been nailed, or instead of using nails.