How to Build a Garden Gate

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By razzberry-jam
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My Front Gate

Building a garden gate isn't as hard as it seems.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Jigsaw or saw
Drill
Screws
2x4s
1x2s
L brackets
Latch OR
Gate kit from the hardware store
2x4s
1x4s

Step 1

There are several ways to build a garden gate.
Step 2

First, you know how I am, it's off to my scrap pile to dig out some 2x4s and recycled fence boards or scraps of 1x4s!
Step 3

Rough sketch

Next, to plan it out. It doesn't have to be fancy, but it needs to fulfill your needs. Measure the space once, write it down, then measure again. Allow at least 1/8 to 1/4 inch on each side so your gate can swing easily.
Step 4

Now cut your 2x4s to the right lengths. Lay them out on the driveway and screw them together. You're basically making an open box, or square.
Step 5

My raggedy side gate

The "L" brackets are screwed into opposing corners, one on top, one on the bottom. This helps keep your gate even.
Step 6

Then I lay my diagonal piece on top of the open box and mark with a straight edge so I know the angle to cut. I use a jigsaw for everything, I'm too lazy to use a hand saw...
Step 7

After cutting my diagonal, I insert it as shown on the sketch and screw it in, using at least two 3" screws on both the top and bottom.
Step 8

Then I cut my 1x4s to the length I want. I just lay them on top of the open box, arranging them carefully, and then screw them down using my drill with a screwdriver bit. (I told you I'm lazy!)
Step 9

Last, I add the hinges and latch and hang the gate. You'll note on the red gate, we installed a swivel caster on the bottom. That way when my dogs jump on the gate, the caster helps support the weight of gate plus 200 pounds of dogs. (They don't do the top any good though.)
Step 10

Corner detail on the front gate

There are several other ways to brace the inside of the gate. You can do it my way, or you can cut shorter pieces for the corners as shown in this picture. I didn't make this particular gate, I got it for free on craigslist. Other than a fresh coat of paint, I used it pretty much "as is".
Step 11

Front gate

If you want a curved top, like on my front gate, you can cut that last. Just draw the curve, then lay gate flat and cut with a saw or jigsaw.
Step 12

Simple Z gate

Here's another very simple and lightweight Z gate. Note that it's all 1x4s. The face boards were laid down, neatly lined up, then the horizontals laid on top and screwed down. A cross piece was added for strength, making the back a very simple Z. Hinges were added and it was done.
Step 13

Or easiest of all, you can buy a gate kit at the hardware store. It has everything but the wood...