DIY Network

Constructing the Wild West Town From "Barkitecture" episode DBAR-108

Kenny and Claire get started on the old west town for Elvis and Tattoo.

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Constructing the Wild West Town

1. Start by cutting two 2x4s at 46-3/4' (uprights), cut three at 96" (8 feet) (footer) (figure A). Using screws, attach one of the 8 foot 2x4s to the two 46-3/4 uprights flush at the top leaving 54-1/2" in the middle. The overhang on the ends of the 8 foot 2x4s is 20-5/8". Attach a second 8 foot 2x4 horizontal to the first 28 inches below the top. Attach the third 2x4 at the bottom leaving two inches from the ground (figure B).

Figure A

Figure B

Figure C

2. Using a circular saw, cut two 1x12s 46-3/4" long (figure C). These pieces function as the end caps to attach to the existing structure. They must be notched 1-1/2"x3-1/2" consistent with the three horizontal 2x4s that were assembled in the previous step (figure D). The notches allow this end cap to sit flush with the back of the façade (figure E). Attach the 1x12s to the outside of the vertical 2x4s on the frame using screws (figure F).

Figure D

Figure E

Figure F

3. Put the assembled frame in place on the plastic shed (figure G). Drill a hole through the 1x12 and plastic structure wall. Use 3-1/2" bolts and a 1-1/2" fender washer on the inside of the plastic wall to make the connection. Tighten and repeat for a total of three bolts on either side of the structure (figure H).

4. For the frame of the sidewalk, cut four pressure treated 2x4s 18" long. Attach the 18" 2x4s evenly along 2 – 8' pressure treated 2x4 stretchers. You are basically creating a long rectangle that has two supports spaced evenly in the middle (figure I).

Figure G

Figure H

Figure I

5. For the façade of the Old West Town, cut random width salvaged wood 60" high to use to cover the general store front. Use remaining widths and cut at varying heights to create the rugged saloon front. Using remaining drop materials, cut to 21" for the sidewalk. Attach all pieces using an air nailer and liquid nails (figure J).

6. Using white paint or white wash, lightly paint the general store side of the structure, leaving the saloon side bare wood (figure K).

7. The signs for the stores were made by applying vinyl lettering to the wood for the sign. Using spray paint, coat the entire area covered with vinyl lettering. After covering, peel lettering off and attach signs (figure L).

Figure J

Figure K

Figure L

Figure M

8. Enjoy your Old West Town (figure M)!

RESOURCES :

Young-Williams Animal Center
Website: www.knoxpets.org

The American Society for the
Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)
Website: www.aspca.org

Petfinder.com
Website: www.petfinder.com