Step 1
Measure and cut four 1-by-4-inch boards to equal lengths, approximately 1 foot shorter than the desired diameter of the gazebo. For a gazebo with a 10-feet diameter, for example, the boards need to be at least 9 feet long.
Step 2
Measure and mark the center point of each board, and drill out a 5/8-inch-diameter hole through the center marks.
Step 3
Mark the center point of the gazebo on level ground and drive a piece of 1/2-inch steel reinforcing bar into the ground at the center point.
Step 4
Slide each of the four boards over the reinforcing bar so that they are stacked together with the reinforcing bar forming a pivot point in the center.
Step 5
Fan out the four boards so they are spaced equally, creating a T-shape with two of the boards and an X-shape with the other two boards. When the boards are fanned out properly, each board should form a 45-degree angle to the neighboring board.
Step 6
Brace each of the boards to hold them in place using small boards, such as lath boards, and C-clamps. Measure the spaces between each of the boards and adjust the braces as necessary to ensure symmetry.
Step 7
Spray paint a 12- to 14-inch circle to mark the space for each post hole, using the board frame as the guide. The holes might begin at the end of each board or set back a few inches from the end depending on the desired diameter for the gazebo; however, the positioning must be the same for each of the eight post holes to achieve symmetry.