I'm making this arbor for a friend (their design) and I've been pondering over the various methods one can make an arch like this. My original thought was to use the bent lamination method, but I was unable to find clear Cedar with which to make it. My next thought was to use the more common method of cutting staves and piecing them together to make the arch. My concern here was the end grain connections separating, so I thought by adding half-lap joints to expose more side grain for glue, that might prevent this from happening. I'd use a finger joint bit, but that can only handle 1-1/2" thick, whereas each layer of this 2-ply is 2-3/4" thick. Any thoughts or suggestions are appreciated.
Also, can anyone recommend the best exterior glue for Cedar? (TB3?)
Arbor.jpgArch Construction.jpg
Frank :-)