Peace Pole

Do you ever catch yourself saying, "Oh I love this...but I could make it for cheaper?"  I decided to quit saying that altogether as I moved into my 6th house this summer and here are the reasons: I hate using the word "cheaper," I don't like ripping off artists ideas and manufacturing them for less, I would rather be "inspired" by something and give it my own twist, if it truly is something I LOVE – and know I won't make it within the next week – I would like nothing more than to support the ventures of the inspiring artist and purchase their piece outright (for the amount they deserve).

When I saw a display of Peace Poles designed by Stephanie Burgess at Linders Garden Center, I had to stop myself cold to not make the above statement.  I LOVE her Peace Poles.  Not only were they meant to brave the elements, but they were eclectic, lovely and unique.

Instead of wanting to simply reproduce her poles, saving myself a few dollars (well $150 to be exact), I decided to combine her ideas of an eclectic pole and the painting pointers I have taken from Jeff Boutin over the years to create something that fits our space (the 6th outdoor space) more appropriately.

The process was simple and all parts were available at the Home Depot.

Materials:
1 - 6ft PVC fence post
1 - PVC fence post cap
1 - 2' piece of green treated 4x4
1 - 4x4 post holder (excuse the overly-technical term) with a screw on the bottom
3 - cans of spray paint (undercoat – grey, top coat - clear/protectant, copper color - for the top)
Set of acrylic paints (primarys) from which to mix your lovely rainbow of color.

Jahred lightly sanded the PVC post before we put on the primer spray paint.  This gave it a better hold.  The colored pole itself is only slipped onto the green treated 4x4 (like a sleeve) and can be taken in for inclement weather/Minnesota winter.  The screw holder allows it to be moved around your yard easily.  or removed for mowing if you choose a grassy spot.

I love this pole.  It stands outside my front door, under my oak, between plants procured from friends and family.  If gardening isn't about peace then I don't know what is.

Total cost of peace pole: $40.  An heirloom project to be treasured for years to come.

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