1-Picket Cedar Fan Trellis

This simple DIY trellis is made from a single cedar fence picket and works great for climbing plants, garden beds, or adding vertical interest to a space.

Materials

– 5 1/2″ x 6ft cedar fence boards (5/8″ thick)
– Wood glue
– 1″ narrow crown staples. brad nails, or screws

Tools

– Circular saw
– Speed square
– Clamp
– Brad nailer or narrow crown stapler (optional, but faster)

Steps

  1. Trim off the dog-ear top of the fence picket.
  2. Using a speed square, mark 6 vertical lines spaced about 3/4” apart. Leave the bottom 6-10” uncut so it can stake into the ground.
  3. Carefully cut along each line with a circular saw, stopping before the uncut section at the bottom. You can angle the stakes slightly for easier installation.
  4. Cut the last two strips off completely and use them to make one 3 ft, one 2 ft, and one 1 ft crosspiece.
  5. Fan out the remaining strips evenly and clamp them into position.
  6. Attach the 3 ft crosspiece near the top, the 2 ft piece in the center, and the 1 ft piece near the bottom using glue and 1″ narrow crown staples or brad nails.
  7. Install directly into the ground or garden bed.

Notes

  • Watch out for knots in the cedar, thinner strips can crack.
  • Predrill holes at the end of each cut line to minimize further splitting.
  • Wood glue helps reinforce weak areas if a strip snaps.
  • Slight imperfections give it a more natural look.

Difficulty: Easy
Estimated Time: 30-45 minutes

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