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5B: Making Bracket Template
Now that we have the spacing figured for the rails, it is time to begin attaching the brackets. Using a T-
square or similar device will help to speed up the marking process and eliminate potential mistakes when
marking the line posts.
Using a T-square (or similar device) and some tape, mark off the stick to make a template. The top of the
first piece of tape should be 7” down from the right angle of the T-square. Refer to the below illustration
for clarification. From there, the top of each additional piece of tape should be whatever you figured your
rail spacing to be in Step 5A
PLUS
5”. So, in the example in 5a, the spacing was figured to be 7-1/4”.
7-1/4” + 5” = 12-1/4”.
NOTE:
The TOP of each piece of tape is where the BOTTOM of each bracket should be placed. Refer to
the diagram below.
NOTE:
Notice that all measurements reference from top downward. This is very important because you
identified the flow of your rail earlier and that was achieved using the string on the top of your post.
5C: Marking Post
Using the template made in Step 5B, mark all line posts with a lumber crayon or marker. This will be the
location to place the bottom of each bracket as you attach them to your line posts.
NOTE: Be sure to make the mark at the TOP of each piece of tape, otherwise the rails will move
up and down.
Tape 4: 31-1/2 + 12-1/4 =
43-3/4”
from the right angle.
7”
191/4”
311/2”
433/4”
Tape 1:
7”
below the right angle of the T-square
Tape 2: 7 + 12-1/4 =
19-1/4”
from the right angle.
Tape 3: 19-1/4 + 12-1/4 =
31-1/2”
from the right angle.
