How to Build an A Frame
- 1). Start with your plywood sheets. Measure 12 inches. Mark and cut the plywood into 3 by 8 foot sheets. This size is consistent with most standard sized A-frames. This will make practicing with your dog much easier.
- 2). Build a frame. Use the 2 inch by 4 foot boards to support the underside of your A-frame. Since your A-frame is 8 feet long, you can leave 4 of the 2 by 4 foot boards whole. Cut the remaining board into 3 foot lengths, so they fit between the long boards.
- 3). Attach the 8 foot long sections to the back side of the plywood sheets, screwing each down. Slide the smaller 2 inch by 4 foot sections. Screw them in. Be sure to counter-sink the screws to prevent injury to your dog.
- 4). Measure off 16 inch sections and mark them with a pencil. Take your square dowels and glue them over the markings. Allow the glue to dry, and nail the dowels down. These risers provide extra traction.
- 5). Paint the A-frame once you have attached all of the supports. Paint the entire A-frame one color, and then measure for your contact zone. The length of the contact zone varies, but a safe length would be 42 inches. Measure up from the end of your A-frame, mark off the contact zone area and paint a contrasting color. You can mix your paint with sand to add traction to the A-frame.
- 6). Screw the hinge to your A-frame once the paint is completely dry. A long, solid hinge will add stability to the A-frame, so be sure to attach it securely. Place the hinge on the underside of the A-frame to avoid injury to your dog.
- 7). Stand your A-frame up and adjustthe sides to the proper height. Once you have the right height, you can attach your eye bolts towards the middle of the A-frame. Screw them in securely, and attach your chains to the eye bolts. You can now lengthen or shorten your chains as you adjust your A-frame.
