Step 16 - Cutting the Posts

Mark the desired height of the arbor beam on one of the 4"x4" posts. Attach a temporary board to the 4"x4" post using one screw, aligning the top of the board with the height line of the post. Using a level as a guide, attach the opposite end of the temporary board to the opposite 4"x4" post. Using a reciprocating saw or circular saw, cut the 4"x4" post to length. (Image 20) Repeat this process for each 4"x4" post making sure the top of the 4"x4" posts are level with each other.

Step 17 - Placing the Beam

Attach the 2"x8" beam to the 4"x4" post using one screw, aligning the bottom of the notch with the top of the post. Make sure the notches in the beams are centered equally between the 4"x4" posts. Using a level as a guide, attach the opposite end of the 2"x8" beam to the opposite post. (Image 21) Drill two 1/2" holes through the two 2"x8" beams and 4"x4" post at each end. Attach the two 2"x8" beams to the post with two 1/2" x 7 1/2" galvanized lag or carriage bolts. (Image 22) Repeat this process for the remaining beams. Make sure the notches from one 2"x8" beam to the next is aligned for the 2"x6" top boards to sit. Use a temporary 2"x6" board to ensure they are aligned through all of the 2"x8" beams.

Step 18 - Scrolling the Top Boards

Cut all 2"x6" cedar top boards to length. Using either a cardboard or scrap wood template, draw a design for the scrolling ends. Transfer your design to each end of the 2"x6" top boards. Using a jig saw cut the design from the 2"x6" top board. (Image 23) We used a belt sander with a medium grit sand paper to smooth the cuts and round the edges of the scroll.

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