Making an obelisk out of a tomato cage is a creative way to add vertical interest to your garden or landscape. It’s a relatively simple project that can be completed with a few basic materials and tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make an obelisk out of a tomato cage:
1. Gather the materials:
– Tomato cage: Choose a sturdy and well-built tomato cage that will serve as the structure for your obelisk. Ideally, select a cage with four evenly spaced wires.
– Desk railing post finial: This decorative piece will be attached to the top of the obelisk, giving it a finished look.
– Thick gauge wire: Look for electrical wire remnants at your local hardware store. This wire will be used to wrap around the tomato cage for added decoration.
– Spray paint: Select a black spray paint to give the obelisk a sleek and uniform appearance.
2. Prepare the tomato cage:
– Begin by drilling four holes in the bottom of the desk railing post finial. Make sure the holes are large enough to accommodate the four wires of the tomato cage.
– Insert the four wires of the tomato cage into the holes of the post finial. This will securely attach the finial to the top of the tomato cage.
3. Decorate the tomato cage:
– Take the thick gauge wire and wrap it around the tomato cage in a decorative manner. You can create patterns or simply wrap it randomly, depending on your preference. This wire wrapping will add visual interest to the obelisk.
– Continue wrapping the wire until the entire tomato cage is covered or until you achieve the desired decorative effect.
4. Paint the obelisk:
– Once the wire wrapping is complete, it’s time to spray paint the obelisk. Apply an even coat of black spray paint to the entire structure, including the tomato cage and the wire wrapping. This will give the obelisk a cohesive and finished look.
5. Finishing touches:
– Allow the spray paint to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
– Once dry, your obelisk is ready to be placed in your garden or landscape. Find a suitable location where it can stand freely and securely.
– You can choose to plant climbing or vining plants at the base of the obelisk, allowing them to grow and intertwine with the structure as they climb upwards.
Making an obelisk out of a tomato cage involves drilling holes in a desk railing post finial, inserting the four wires of the tomato cage into the holes, and wrapping thick gauge wire around the cage for decoration. The entire structure is then spray painted black for a finished look. This DIY project provides a unique and eye-catching element to your garden or landscape, while also offering support for climbing plants. Enjoy the process of creating your own obelisk and watch as it becomes a focal point in your outdoor space.
