Homemade Wire Fence Stretcher

Written By
Denise Nyland
Denise Nyland
Published: Jan 18, 2011
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

The mesh is attached to the first fence post, stretched, then attached to the adjacent post. Using only your hands to stretch the infill material can result in a nonuniform appearance or sagging wire mesh. Stretching tools distribute uniform force across the width of the infill material, producing a professional appearance to your finished project. Constructing your own wire-stretching tool takes only minutes and requires no special tools or advanced carpentry skills.

Things You Will Need

  • Scrap 2-inch-by-4-inch plank
  • Yardstick
  • Saw
  • Drill with driving bit
  • Wood screws, two inches long
  1. Measure the width of the fencing material. Mark a 2-inch-by-4-inch plank, approximately two-thirds of the width of the infill material. Cut on the line.

  2. Lay the plank on a flat surface with its two-inch surfaces horizontal. Use a yardstick and a pencil to scribe a line down the center of the plank, from one end to the other. Mark the line along its length approximately three inches apart.

  3. Use a drill and driving bit to drive a wood screw through each mark, into the wood. Leave the heads of the screws protruding approximately one inch from the surface of the plank.

The Drip Cap

  • Constructing a woven or welded-wire fence to contain pets or to protect your garden is a satisfying and inexpensive landscaping project.
  • Using only your hands to stretch the infill material can result in a nonuniform appearance or sagging wire mesh.
  • Leave the heads of the screws protruding approximately one inch from the surface of the plank.
Denise Nyland

Denise Nyland "Denisen" is a long term resident of Panama City, Fla. She studied radiologic sciences and education and has published articles in multiple professional journals and contributed to various educational texts.

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