The Deck - leaf 1 basic support structure

Next was figuring out the framework. I mainly needed a frame that would attach each surface board and be stable enough to be elevated over the front of the landscape board. Using another printout of the first leaf, I began building the frame with a center beam. From there, I cut skinny sticks (to save on cost) to create cross beams every half inch. This creates multiple glue points for each board.

I notched the center beam and cross boards for a solid fit, using glue to reinforce the joins. I used bass wood for the few areas where the skinny sticks were too short and left the ends long for now.

To add stability on the outer edge, I added more skinny sticks. These are not the cleanest cuts I've ever made, but you will see these only as the underneath structure of the deck. I cut these notches using my handheld Dremel since they were angled and the main spine was glued together.