Introduction: Macrame Trellis

About: Techshop DCA Instructor. Civil Engineering Student. Currently Obsessed with E Textiles and Sailor Moon

I made this trellis because I needed something custom and nice looking so that my HOA wouldn't get upset. It took me about two hours to make.

Materials:

Two 2x2

A lot of string, twine, paracord, or whatever is around the house that is mostly weather proof an wont snap.

A stake of some sort.

Step 1: Build the Frame

Cut two pieces from the 2x2's at five feet and 5 inches. Cut two pieces at 15 1/2 inches.

Assemble the the pieces with screws. I only used two of the shorter pieces but a third or fourth could be used based on your own aesthetics.

The frame will be just under two feet wide. Now take it inside to make the macrame mesh.

Step 2: Macrame

I cut my string at twelve feet long and folded it in half to create two six feet long pieces. Make the string twice as long to reach the bottom of the frame. I only did them this long because I didn't want tit to go down too much past half way.

There should be three strands of two for 6 stings dangling from the top of the frame. I made a slip knot the attach the strings to the frame. Two in the corners, on in the middle.

1) First make a knot with the second and third strings, then the fourth and fifth strings. Make the hole relatively large so that the tension between them wont be too tight.

2) Wrap the first string around the back of the frame to the front and create a knot with the first and second string. Repeat with the fifth and sixth strings.

3) Repeat the sequence until the second bar across.

4) Separate the strings front ad back and create a knot under the bar. This provides tension and structure so that the strings can hold the weight of the vines.

5) Repeat until the desired length is reached.

6) Wrap the first and sixth strings around the back and gather all of the strings together and knot.

7) Twist or braid the strands into one and attach it to stake with a simple but strong knot.

Step 3: Set It Up

Dig two holes the width of the frame and place the frame legs into the holes. With a hammer or mallet sink the legs into the ground as much as possible. Pile dirt around the legs and tamp it down firmly.

Sink the stake into the ground right in front of the plant and gently wrap it around the string so that it knows where to climb.

Check the stability of the frame and hammer it in some more if needed.

Enjoy your creativity.