How to Make Grapevine Furniture

Frame

Step 1

To make a 20-inch square end table, begin with 2-inch diameter bamboo for the frame. Cut eight sections of 20-inch bamboo, 20 inches long, for a square-topped end table.

Step 2

Assemble the tabletop first. Fasten together four 20-inch sections of bamboo using screws.

Step 3

Shape the tops of the legs so the straight legs fit easily against the top frame and form a square. Using a craft knife or hand saw, cut away a portion of the top of the legs to fit against the curve of the frame. Attach the legs to the corners of the tabletop frame using screws. Avoid drilling through the nodes, the raised rings that occur naturally in bamboo. Insert the screws from the outside of the tabletop frame legs into the frame and one from the inside of the leg out into the frame; tighten screws. Vary the exact placement of the screws, depending on the natural features of the bamboo.

Weaving the Grapevine

Step 1

Soak the grapevine at least 24 hours or overnight to make it more pliable and easier to work with. Wash the soaked vine to remove any loose materials.

Step 2

Weave the vine over and under in a crosshatch pattern, alternating horizontal and vertical vines as you work. Start at the center of the table. Tuck the ends into the weave as you work. If the vine end is stiff, secure the end from the underside with florist wire so that it does not unravel.

Step 3

Work the vine, alternating down the legs and up to the tabletop edge, at an angle, working toward the center of the tabletop, to help stabilize the table construction. Bring the weave down approximately 3 or 4 inches; bringing it all the way down is unnecessary. Complete all four legs vertically before adding the horizontal weave; then take the horizontal weave all the way around. This section of weave adds stability, but not strength, to the construction. Play with patterns and perfect your technique for the next project.