gravel
iesigns
Gravel refers to a type
of loose rock that
is larger than
2
mm
across, but no bigger
than
64
mm. It’s either
formed by the natural
weathering of rocks or
produced by crushing
sandstone or basalt.
Fence lift
If your fence is
looking a little old
and run-down, give
it a new lease of
life with a fresh
coat of paint. Try
charcoal blue (Dulux
School Ink) for a
subtle change that
will easily blend in
with the rest of the
garden. Or, if you’re
feeling adventurous,
opt for a bright
red colour to really
make a statement.
ake a rockin’ screen
Adding a colourful backdrop to your
gravel garden helps define the space
and creates a sense of enclosure. It
also gives a little privacy to the area.
In keeping with the rocky theme,
these screens feature stone-shaped
cut-outs in various sizes. Make
enough screens to suit your needs.
GATHER YOUR SUPPLIES
To make 1 screen
■ 2400 x 1200 x 15mm exterior
CD plywood sheet
■ 90 x 90mm x 3m H4 posts (2)
■ 20kg concrete (4 bags)
■ Dulux Weathershield Low
Sheen acrylic in Sinatra (blue)
YOU’LL ALSO NEED
D rill;
8mm
and
4mm
d rill
bits; jigsaw; 50mm screws, for
treated pine; spirit level; shovel or
post-hole digger; sandpaper
HERE’S HOW
STEP
1
Draw oval shapes of
various sizes on plywood. Drill
an 8mm clearance hole near the
inside edge of each shape to allow
jigsaw blade to fit through.
STEP 2
Cut out shapes using
jigsaw, then sand edges.
STEP 3
To screw posts onto back
of plywood sheet, mark 600mm
intervals up edges of plywood.
Predrill, then screw plywood to
posts using 50mm screws, with
edges of plywood and posts flush.
STEP 4
Hold screen in place,
mark position of posts on ground,
then dig 2 holes, 600mm deep.
Position posts in holes, prop so
they are upright, then mix and pour
concrete into holes.
STEP 5
Before concrete sets,
adjust so panels are level and
plumb, propping if necessary.
Leave concrete to set hard before
painting screen.
For project supplies,
see Stockists page
72
BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS, APRIL 2011 bhg.com.au
