This project was built and designed by Clinton from Specific Love Creations. It’s a budget-friendly outdoor project that adds structure, height, and charm to any garden, all for around $10 in materials.
Using just a few furring strips and simple joinery, Clinton shows how to create a six-foot obelisk trellis that’s perfect for climbing plants like morning glories, clematis, beans, or peas. It’s lightweight, easy to build, and strong enough to support most garden vines.
Watch the full video and subscribe to Clinton’s channel:
Why Choose an Obelisk Trellis?
Vertical trellises are an effective way to support climbing plants while saving space. The tall, narrow design of an obelisk encourages upward growth and allows for better air circulation around foliage.
This type of structure also adds visual interest to flower beds, vegetable plots, or even container gardens. Clinton’s version focuses on keeping things simple and affordable without sacrificing strength or style.
Materials and Tools Needed
The main material used in this project is 1×2 furring strips. These boards are inexpensive, easy to find at most hardware stores, and lightweight enough for quick handling during the build.
Most cuts are 90-degree angles, making this an ideal project for beginners. A miter saw is used for speed, but a circular saw, jigsaw, or even a handsaw can get the job done. Other helpful tools include a drill, brad nailer or hammer, clamps, and some waterproof wood glue.
Before starting, Clinton selects the straightest boards for the vertical legs to ensure a clean, stable final frame. Any rough cut ends are lightly sanded for a smoother finish.
Step-by-Step Assembly
The trellis is built from four vertical legs connected by horizontal cross members. These cross pieces form the tapered look that defines an obelisk.
Each leg is marked to show where the rungs will attach. Clinton recommends taking time with these reference marks, as they make assembly much easier and ensure everything lines up properly.
Waterproof wood glue is applied to each joint, with nails or brad nails added for extra holding power. If you don’t have a nailer, regular finishing nails or wood screws can work just as well.
The first side of the obelisk is assembled flat on a work surface. Once it’s finished, that side is used as a guide to mark and assemble the second side, keeping all measurements consistent.
Joining the Frame
After both sides are completed, they’re joined together with matching cross members on the remaining two faces. This step can be tricky since the frame needs to be held in place while you work—Clinton suggests having a second set of hands, but it’s manageable solo with clamps and careful positioning.
As the frame comes together, it starts to take on its final shape: a sturdy, freestanding garden trellis with plenty of open space for plants to climb.
Capping the Top
To finish the design and help prevent twisting over time, Clinton adds a small cap to the top of the trellis. This is made from leftover scrap wood and cut to fit the top corners snugly.
It’s a small touch that adds visual appeal while strengthening the overall structure. Sanding the edges and corners of the cap gives it a clean, finished look.
Protecting It for Outdoor Use
Although the project uses untreated lumber, a few simple steps can help it last longer outdoors. Extra glue can be added to the base of each leg to slow moisture absorption from the soil.
Clinton recommends sealing the entire trellis with either exterior paint or a clear finish. A coat of spar urethane or another outdoor-grade wood sealer helps protect against weathering and UV damage while maintaining the natural look of the wood.
For those who want to add a splash of color to the garden, outdoor latex paint is also a great option.
Customization and Flexibility
The design is easy to customize depending on your garden needs. Additional cross members or diagonal supports can be added to accommodate heavier climbing plants or windy locations.
You can also change the size of the trellis by shortening the legs or widening the base, depending on available space. The project is a great starting point for experimenting with outdoor joinery and layout.
A Great Garden Project for Beginners
Clinton’s trellis design is approachable, practical, and satisfying to build. It offers a useful opportunity to sharpen measuring and assembly skills while creating something that improves your garden space.
This project is especially ideal for beginners looking to gain confidence with tools and layout. The materials are inexpensive, the cuts are simple, and the finished result is something you can be proud to display in your yard.
Watch the full video and subscribe to Clinton’s channel: