How to make a Picket Fence with a Cat Face Gate
My daughter went from a bouncer loving bundle of sitting cuteness to a full blown jogger overnight. That's when I realized we needed a fence for our backyard hangout. Since our backyard was also a crossing path for adorable stray cats, I designed the picket fence with a cat entrance. This guide will show you how to make your own picket fence with a cat face gate!
Project Overview
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Time Required: 2-3 days
Note: Basic woodworking skills required
Background
My daughter went from a bouncer loving bundle of sitting cuteness to a full blown jogger overnight. At that age, when she near anything dangerous (i.e., everything) I was no more than 2 inches from her at all times (I helicopted, whatever).
That being said, we wanted to have a small fence to block her from leaving our newly created backyard hangout. Our backyard also happened to be the major crossing path for a number of adorable stray cats. These little cuties walked this path long before we bought the house – it was only fair that I design the picket fence with that in mind. I had no idea how to make a picket fence when I started but I found the entire process pretty straightforward.
Bonus: Catio Creation
Our Catio is a double decker, two heated house, food deck stray cat lovin' paradise. It has provided shelter and food for a dozen or so strays in the neighborhood.
The cat face fence gate was the perfect entrance to this little cat paradise!
Cat Face Template
You can download the cat face template below to create your own cat entrance in your fence. The pattern spans three pickets with 1-inch gaps between them.
Download Template
The template shown here can be printed and used for your fence project. Make sure to adjust the sizing to fit your specific picket dimensions.
Download PDF TemplateTips for Success
Measuring Accurately
Each picket is 4″ in width, spaced 1″ apart. One 6′ picket covers 10″ of fence width when cut in half. For a 70″ fence (like mine), you'll need seven 6′ pickets.
Weatherproofing
Use outdoor paint and stainless steel screws for durability. Ideally, pressure-treated wood should dry for 6 months before painting, but you can paint sooner with additional coats later.
Gate Length
If building a gate longer than 70″, consider splitting it into separate sections. A gate that's too long may put too much stress on the hinges and not function properly.
Template Application
When applying the cat face template, use painter's tape first, then spray adhesive. This protects your wood and makes template removal easier after cutting.
Final Thoughts
My writeups are more wordy than most, mostly because I try to write out what was going through my head during a project. It's extremely rewarding to know that someone thought my idea was cool enough to try.
Please share your finished product (and/or progress photos) with me via email (thecraftycatsman@gmail.com) or by tagging me on Instagram (@thecraftycatsman).
I may even feature your post or pic on the website!
Tools You'll Need
Scroll Saw
For cutting the cat face design in the pickets
Drill
For pre-drilling holes and securing the fence together
Hammer
For general construction and securing components
Speed Square
For marking and ensuring straight cuts and alignments
Level
To ensure your fence is properly aligned
Printer
For printing the cat face template
Brad Nailer (optional)
For additional reinforcement of the pickets
Materials Needed
Fence Pickets
Pressure-treated wood pickets, approximately 6 feet in length
2×4 Pressure Treated Lumber
For the horizontal support rails of the fence
Spray Adhesive
For attaching the template to the wood
Blue Painter's Tape
Used to protect the pickets when applying the template
Gate Latch
For securing the gate when closed
T-Strap Hinges
For hanging the gate
Stainless Steel Screws
For outdoor durability and securing components
Outdoor Paint
For weather protection and aesthetics
Step-by-Step Instructions
1Prepare Your Materials
Start by measuring the length of fence you need. Each picket is 4" wide, and with a 1" gap between them, each picket covers 5" of fence length. For a 70" fence (which doubles as a gate), you'll need seven 6' pickets. Cut these 6' pickets in half to create fourteen 3' pickets. Ensure your wood is pressure-treated to prevent rot over time. Also, prepare your 2×4's by cutting them to the desired total length of the fence.
2Create the Picket Design
Take your 3' pickets and create a pointed top design. An easy way is to use one picket as a template - trace the top design onto the remaining pickets and cut along the pencil line using a scroll saw, jigsaw, or handsaw. Sand any rough edges with 80 grit followed by 120 grit sandpaper. Remember to wear a mask when sanding pressure-treated wood.
3Prepare the Cat Face Template
Print out the cat face template (available for download). Lay three pickets side by side with your planned 1" spacing between them. Place the template across all three pickets and make sure it's the size you want. Cut the sections of template paper that fall in the gaps between pickets. Apply painter's tape to the areas where the template will be attached, then spray adhesive onto the tape. Carefully position the template pieces on the taped areas.
4Cut the Cat Face Design
Using your scroll saw, carefully cut along the outline of the cat face design through all three pickets. Take your time and follow the template lines closely. Once complete, remove any remaining painter's tape and admire your handiwork. The three pickets together now form a cat face entrance.
5Assemble the Fence Pickets
Lay all your pickets on the ground with proper spacing (use a small piece of scrap wood as a consistent spacer). Position your first 2×4 support just above the cat face cutout. Check that the 2×4 is level and that all pickets remain straight using a speed square. Screw two screws diagonally through the 2×4 into each picket. Position the second 2×4 support about a foot higher and repeat the process. Optionally, use a nail gun to add a few nails through the front of each picket into the 2×4's for additional stability.
6Paint the Fence
Before painting, check for any blemishes and sand them smooth (80 grit followed by 120 grit). Use quality outdoor paint and apply three coats, following the can's directions for drying time between coats. Note that pressure-treated wood ideally should dry for 6 months before painting, but for this project, you can paint sooner. You might need to apply additional coats a few weeks later for better coverage.
7Install the Gate Hinges
If your fence will function as a gate, ensure you mount it high enough to swing freely. Line up the fence with your mounting post (ideally a 4×4 post). Prop the fence at the correct height and ensure it's level. Attach the T-strap hinges to the fence first, screwing through the pickets into the supporting 2×4. Then secure the other side of each hinge to your post. Test that the gate swings freely.
8Install the Gate Latch
For the latch, you'll need something to attach it to. This could be another post or a creative solution based on your specific situation. Position the bolt portion of the latch on the 2×4 of your gate. Ensure the gate is level, then install the receiving portion of the latch on your post or support. Test that the gate opens and closes properly and that the latch secures it when closed.
