How to make a chain link header

Introduction

Prepare and build the framework

Cut posts and rails to length with a hacksaw.

To make the basic headboard frame, lay the two end posts vertically on your work surface and lay the rails horizontally at the top and bottom to form a square.

Step 1

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Add tension bars

Slide seven tension bar brackets onto each post. The two outer brackets will attach to the rails at the top and bottom of the posts, the three inner brackets will hold the fences in place, and the remaining two brackets on each side will be used to attach the headboard to the wall.

Step 2

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Add Rail End Caps

Attach a rail end cap to each of the four tension bar brackets at the top and bottom of the posts, and fit the top and bottom rails to them. The top and bottom rails will be loose on the end caps until the fence stretches and adheres to the posts.

Step 3

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Attach fencing

With the basic frame in place, you can attach the fencing. Chainlink fences interlock and can be uncoiled to create the 3 1/2" wide piece needed for the header. Use pliers to crimp the top and bottom of one connecting piece of the fencing, and slide it off the fence to unwind connecting piece (Image 1).

Slide a tension bar on each side of the fencing piece (Image 2).

Stage 4

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Finish the bed

Attach one side of the fence to a post by screwing the tension rod to the three center tension rod brackets on that post. To attach the other side of the fence to the opposite post, pull the fence tight, slide the tension bar into the bracket and screw into place (Image 1). This is a two-person job:one person tightens the fence while the other screws it into place.

Screw the headboard to the wall with the two remaining brackets.

Add an end cap to the top of each post to finish the header (Image 2).