Up the ladder
The obelisk ladder comes next. This is the series of 3/4" x 3/4" parts that divides each face of the obelisk to make it look attractive and add strength. Cut four ladder rungs each at 12 1/4", 9 3/4" and 7 1/2" lengths. You'll also need four ladder uprights at 26 1/4". Batch-cut all similar parts at the same time so they're
consistent.
Set the corner post frame upright on a flat surface and fasten all four of the lowest (long) ladder rungs in place before joining the frame to the box. You'll find a pair of 12"-long props very helpful for ensuring that the bottom course of ladder rungs are all the same height. Fastening these rungs now helps square the frame. Secure them with an 18-gauge brad nailer first, then drill pilot holes and fasten the rungs permanently with a single #8 x 1 1/2" screw per joint.
Cut your two temporary vertical spacers down to 10 3/4" long, then use them to hold up the second course of ladder rungs as the props sit on the long rungs you just installed. Repeat the process for the top course of rungs, then add one ladder upright to the inside middle of each obelisk face.
The capital comes next. It's the crown of the obelisk, and you can make it easily out of scrap wood if you follow a couple of tricks. The first has to do with the capital tip. It's short and steeply angled, so to keep things safe, start with a piece of 2x2 that's about 16" long to act as a handle. This gives you something to hang on to as you cut the four angles that form the tip. If you're experienced with a chopsaw, four quick cuts will get the job done. If not, then consider using a handsaw or jigsaw. When the tapered cuts are made, crosscut the obelisk tip to its six-inch final dimension.
The capital base is just a piece of 5/4 decking with the rounded edges sawn off to give an overall size of 5" x 5". Complete the capital assembly by adding the capital trim around the underside of the base, like small lengths of crown moulding. Fasten the completed capital to the obelisk frame by nailing through the trim, then stain or paint the project with 100 per cent acrylic exterior latex paint.
As you'll soon discover, it's best to build garden projects like these in sets. It's faster, which is great since all your friends and neighbours will want you to build one for them.
Read more in Home Reno & Design and Outdoor
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