How to Build a Simple Grape Arbor
I purchased 3 new grapevines at the Spring Planting Festival at Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds this spring in Missouri. I had to get them in the ground and I knew where I wanted them but I didn’t have a grape arbor built yet, nor did I have the time to construct one at the time. So I, kind of, did a ‘step by step’ method over a couple months time.
Grape Arbor – Step 1
Before planting my grapes, our first step was to cement three short 4x4 posts in the ground where I would be placing my arbor. I planted my grapes in front of the posts as soon as the concrete was set up. I knew they would be fine like that until I had the opportunity to get to the construction.
4x4 post cemented into the ground, awaiting the arbor. 
First two posts constructed before sunset. 
All three posts up, plumb and ready. 
Cross boards in place. 
Beginning the ‘rafters’ for the grape arbor.
Getting to the Construction – Step 2
When I finally had the time, I began by constructing posts to go over and attach to the 4x4’s in the ground. We had some leftover 1x lumber that I ripped down to the necessary dimensions on our table saw. I also had some 4x4 cut offs at my disposal (I love to use leftover materials!)
I constructed my posts by attaching the cut down 1x lumber around the 4x4 at one end (the top end). Next, I slid the open end over the 4x4s in the ground and screwed them off, making sure that all three posts were plumb.
Grape Arbor – Step 3
I connected my posts with horizontal runners, on which the grapevines will climb. There was not a specific dimension that I worked with for the runners. I based it off of the current size of my vines and ran with it. The main thing that I made sure of was that they were level. When they are out of level, it stands out like a sore thumb!
Step 4 – The Arbor
So, my panels were constructed but the arbor portion of this project still needed to go up. I opted to construct ‘rafters’ in place around the top portion of my posts. After choosing the appropriate angle (basically, just what I thought looked good) I measured and marked them. I cut my lumber to the proper length to cantilever the ‘roof’. Considering the design of my angled arbor roof, the cantilever is more sturdy.
I placed a board on the sides of each post and screwed them off very well. To finish off the constructed ‘rafters’, I added a 2x4 block in the ends. This was to stiffen the overall rafter as well as to give me a nailer for the front and back finish boards that I would be installing. I then installed the front and back ‘fascia’ boards to finish the rectangular structure and I topped it off with 2x2’s for the vines to grab hold of as they grow.
Rafters up, ready to finish construction. 
Blocks and nailers; low side 
High side 
Braced up, Ready for front and back pieces. 
Almost complete. 
Upper braces in place. 
Stained and sealed 
Step 5 – Finishing
With the structure complete, the last step was to seal the wood. I used a stain and seal product that we had also used for our decks and the walk around our pool. It helps to protect it from the weather and adds a nice color at the same time.
The Wrap Up
I absolutely love how my new grape arbor turned out. It was honestly a quick and easy project and my only expense in this one was the stain and seal. Everything else was leftover materials that were already here…and I LOVE that part of it! I am looking forward to seeing it when it is covered in beautiful grapevines!
NEVER MISS A THING!!
I invite you to have a look at some of our other farm style construction projects or maybe some of our other cool projects! And, don’t forget to check out A Life on the Farm for the more personal side of the farm and homesteading life. And don’t forget to go subscribe to the Two Oaks Farmstead Youtube Channel for all kinds of terrific content!!!
