One of the most photographed parts of a wedding is the wedding arches.They can be used at a wedding where the couple is getting married, as a photo booth, surrounding a gift table, and in other creative ways.Building your own arch can be more rewarding and less expensive than buying or renting an arch.
Step 1: Cut 4 posts so that they are 80 inches long.
The legs of your arch will be served by these bigger pieces.While you prepare the smaller pieces, you can put them aside.If you want to cut the wood evenly make sure you support both sides of the piece by placing the other side on a flat surface.The easiest way to get straight lines is with a handsaw.You can change the size of the legs.
Step 2: Cut the pieces from the last two posts.
One piece that's 48 inches (1.2 m) with opposing 45 degree angles on either side is what you'll want to cut from the post.
Step 3: Make sure the pieces are clean.
Some of the wooden pieces may have something on them.You will want to wipe the sticky material off with a rag.It's a good idea to use a putty knife to get off the wood.
Step 4: The wood needs to be sanded.
You can use an electric sander or hand it down.It's important to do this with even strokes to get rid of the rough patches in the wood.This is something that will be in a lot of pictures, so you want it to look smooth.It is best to use medium-grit sandpaper.
Step 5: The wood needs to be stained.
If you don't like the look of the wood, you can stain it.Rather than brushing, apply a wiping motion with a paint sponge.Paint the wooden pieces on a large piece of cloth with a stain from your local hardware store.Follow the instructions that come with the stain.It's best to do this outside.
Step 6: The pieces are 48 inches long and Mark 2 inches from each end.
Once your arch is assembled, mark the pieces with a pencil.Cut at a straight angle once you have marked at 2 inches from either end.
Step 7: The smaller pieces are used to assemble the top frame.
Line up the pieces that are 24 inches (61 cm) to where the markings are on the 48 inches (1 m) pieces.The pieces should fit in those places.The pieces are secured with a drill and wooden nails.The top frame of your arch should be a rectangular one after you drill these pieces into place.
Step 8: Attach the legs to the frames.
After the top of your arch is done, it's time to raise it.Place one of the longer pieces that are 80 inches (2.0 m) long and drill them into place using the wooden screws.They need to be nice and secure.You'll need a few more people to do this part.If you feel that the legs aren't strong enough on their own, you may need to attach smaller pieces of wood between them.
Step 9: Add on the diagonal pieces.
There are pieces that are 30 cm long with cuts on the sides.You can place them under either side of the frame and drill them into the arch legs.
Step 10: Pick flowers or cloth.
This is where your creativity comes in.When choosing flowers or items for your arch, you may want to coordinate with the season or the theme of the wedding.The decoration of the arch should not clash with other decorations.
Step 11: Wrap the fabric around the arch.
You can drape it on either side of the arch.If you don't like that method, you can twirl the fabric around each leg.
Step 12: Attach the flowers to the arch.
Attach the flowers and other decorative materials with either a hot glue gun or a staple gun.Attach them so that they're spread out in the arch that you like.Don't leave any huge gaps in the arch.