Build a Post for Climbing Vines

Using a drill press, drill the holes making sure that all holes are true and square to the post. Level the post under a drill press and proceed to drill holes at marks using a 1-inch Forstner bit. To minimize tear out, place a scrap piece of wood under the post where the bit will exit. Drill all 10 holes as deep as the press will allow. If the bit doesn't go all the way through the 4x4, adjust the drill press table and continue drilling the holes.

Cut each 36-inch dowel to 20 inches. Cut the remaining pieces to 10 inches. The ends of the dowels may need to be sanded lightly to get them started in the holes. Use a rubber mallet to drive the 20-inch dowels through the post until they protrude an equal distance from either side. Drive the remaining 10-inch dowels into holes from either side until they meet in the middle of the 4x4.

Drill starter holes and tap 2-1/2-inch nails into the back of the 4x4 and through the 20-inch dowels to secure them in place. Drill additional holes and tap the 2-1/2-inch nails into the 10-inch dowels to hold in place.

Drill a pilot hole in the top center of the 4x4 and attach the finial.

Using a sledgehammer, tap the base into the ground until the underside meets the ground. Insert the wood post into the post base. Drill starter holes and using a socket wrench, secure the post with galvanized screws (may be supplied with the post base).