How to Build Big Wooden Gates

Cut four 3-foot-11½-inch pieces from two 2-by-2s for the top and bottom of both gates. Always subtract one inch off the overall width of the opening for extra space for the hinges and so the inside edges of both gates close together smoothly without smashing together.

Cut 32 2-foot-9-inch pieces from the 2-by-2s for the vertical beams. Sixteen will be used on each gate.

Sand all rough edges off the cut pieces. Apply wood stain or paint and allow to dry. Then apply water sealant to all pieces.

Place two 4-foot sections parallel to each other 3 feet apart. Lay two 2-foot-9-inch sections vertically between them to form a 3-by-4-foot rectangle. Drive a nail through both ends of each 4-foot piece into the shorter pieces.

Equally space 14 2-foot-9-inch 2-by-2s inside the rectangle vertically between the 4-foot sides for the bars of the gate. Drive a nail through both 4-foot sides into the ends of each bar.

Repeat steps 4 and 5 and build the second gate.

Lay spacers on the ground where you install the gates and stand the gates side by side on top of them. Use two hinges to attach each gate to a fence post. Remove the spacers out from under the gates.

Keep the gates closed with a bungee cord. Another option is installing a latch on the gates.