MINIATURE GATE HURDLE
A minature version of the gate hurdle used in the past to fold sheep. Traditionally made from ash, willow or sweet chestnut this version uses hazel. Ideal as edging for borders or to hold back the occasional "rampant" plants. Turned on its end it is a convenient short trellis.
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Materials
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Tools
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| 1 X 16"(40cm) X 1.5" (4cm) Endpost | Sharp knife |
| 4 X 24" (60cm) X 1" (2.5cm) Cross piece/struts | Drill with 13mm auger and 1.5mm bit |
| 10 X 1" (2.5cm) nails | Hammer and saw |
| 15 X 1.5 (4cm) nails | Riving/ splitting tool |
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End-posts Split end post in half as described under riving wood Point one end of each half Drill holes as illustrated with 13mm auger |
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Cross piece and struts Split the 4 rods in half as described under riving wood. Using the knife shape both ends of five halves to fit into the end post holes |
1. Fit the five cross pieces (B) into the end-post halves (A) with the bark of B on the same side. Pre-drill with the 1.5mm bit where A meets B and nail using the 1" nails
2. Fit one of the split rods in the centre (C). Pre-drill nail holes where B meets C. Nail and bend over the protruding pointed ends.
3. Fit the two struts (D). Pre-drill nail holes and nail as shown, bend over the protruding pointed ends.
Riving
wood
Using a billhook or similar tool with approximately 0.5cm thick blade. Start the split by gently tapping the sharp edge of the tool on the centre of one end of the stick.
Prise the two halves of the wood apart by twisting the blade so that the top part pushes against the thickest half of the wood. Do not push blade through, only move it forward once a way has been prised open.
Use only a steady pressure.