How to Build a Bamboo Bar

Build the frame of the bar. Using two 5-foot lengths of bamboo and two 39.5-inch lengths, make a rectangle and tie the corners using twine. Tie another 5-foot length in the middle of the frame so that all three lengths are parallel. Tie two more 39.5-inch lengths in place, dividing the frame into thirds. Tie two 50-inch lengths of bamboo in place so that they meet in the middle and form a V-shape for added stability.

Carefully tack the bamboo mat into place onto the frame. This is the front side of the bar. The bamboo mat will hang slightly over the edges and wrap around the sides. Make another rectangular frame exactly like the first. This is the back of the bar, so it doesn't have the bamboo mat attached to it. Once both frames are complete, join them with six 16-inch lengths of bamboo, one at each corner and one halfway up the bar, joining them midway. Make an X-shape with two 42-inch lengths of bamboo. Tie them in place on one side for added stability. Repeat on the opposite side. Tack the ends of the bamboo mat in place on the sides of the bar.

Assemble the top of the bar using your 160 pieces of 16-inch bamboo. They don't need to all be the exact same length — in fact, manufacturers often deliberately make them somewhat imperfect to add character to the bar. Glue the bamboo pieces in place. You may also nail these bamboo pieces in place on top of the bar to secure them. Decorate the bar with lights, palm leaves and bright flowers.