Build a cedar fence with open panels

1.1 Decide on the location of your fence and mark out the fence line with string and wooden stakes. Plant one stake for each post and calculate the number of sections you will need to assemble.

1.2. Make grooves in the very centre of the posts using a dado blade. The grooves must be ¾" wide by ¾" deep. Only one groove needs to be made in the start and end posts.

1.3. Stain the posts and the boards.

2.1. Plant a metal stake into the ground at your starting point. To drive it in, insert a 10" scrap piece of post in the base of the stake and hit it with a sledgehammer.

2.2. Plant a second metal stake along the fence line, exactly 74" from the first stake, centre to centre.

2.3. Insert the first (start) post into the base of the first stake and a post for straight lines into the second stake.

2.4. Insert the first board into the grooves, 3" from the bottom end of the posts. Screw into the posts at an angle.

2.5. Slide the other boards into place following the pattern shown in the elevation, i.e. three boards at a time followed by a 1" space. Use a spacer to ensure even 1" gaps between the board sections. If necessary, cut the boards to adjust their length. Screw each board into the posts at an angle.

2.6. Work your way along the fence line, planting one stake at a time and installing the boards as you go. Finish with an end post.