How to Build an Octagon Cage

Build the exterior base of the octagon by placing 12-foot long 3-inch in diameter steel pipes into the two bottom couplers in the 3-way steel connectors. These connectors must be set at a 67 1/2 degree angle -- the interior measurement of each angle in an octagon -- so that once all eight are assembled, they complete the octagon.

Insert the eight 7-foot poles into the remaining vertical connector on each of the 3-way connectors. These will be the corner posts of the cage.

Attach the remaining eight 3-way connectors to the tops of the 7-foot poles, then attach the remaining 12-foot steel pipes to the connectors at the top of the poles. This will complete the exterior skeleton of the cage.

Place a layer of tires in the center of the octagon. Make sure to fill in as much of the octagon as you can. This is the support and cushioning for the octagon platform.

Create a square 32 feet on each side out of plywood. Using a builders square, mark off 67 1/2 degree angles from the 16 foot mark on each side of the square. Cut these angles out of the square with a circular saw. From the end of each cut, measure another 67 1/2 degree angle and cut it as well. This will complete the octagon.

Set the octagon platform out on top of the tires and secure them in place with deck screws.

Cut 1-inch foam padding to fit over the octagon and secure it with strip adhesive.

Unroll the fencing and attach one end to the pole of your choice. Secure it in place with zip ties. Pull the fencing around the outside of the poles, securing each one with zip ties until you return to the initial pole. This will require the help of a friend or a fence puller.