How to Build Faux Columns to Enclose Wrought Iron on My Patio

Faux columns can hide ugly metal posts.

A square column is the easiest to build; if you're feeling more ambitious, you can get into more complicated projects like octagonal or round columns.

1. Measure the height of the post that you want to surround with your faux column.

2. Cut the four boards to the length that you determined in Step 1.

3. Screw one of the 10-inch boards to one of the 8-inch boards at their sides to create an "L" shape that measures 10-by-9 inches. Put in a 2-inch screw every 12 inches. Be careful to keep the ends of the boards even.

4. Screw the other 10-inch board onto the other side of the 8-inch board to create a "U" shape that is 10 inches wide on each side.

5. Stand up the assembly that you made, and put it in place so it surrounds the iron post.

6. Place the second 8-inch board in the remaining space in the column to create a solid, 4-sided square column. Screw this board onto the others on both sides.

7. Tap in wood shims at the top and bottom as needed to stabilize and strengthen the column.

8. Cover the screw holes with wood filler. After the filler has dried, sand it smooth with 100-grit sandpaper.

9. Apply primer on the whole column, and then paint the column to match the rest of the patio.