Step 1: Decide on Shape and Size
You don’t have to be a draftsman – sketch out what you want your tiki bar to look like. Your imagination and the space you have are the only limits.
Step 2: Prepare the Walls
Tiki bars have three sides that double as support for shelving. Use 3/4-inch plywood, measured and cut to the proper sizes for each side of the structure. Cut pieces of bamboo wainscoting to the same sizes and set aside. Corners where the pieces adjoin should be miter cut for a professional fit. Use glue and nails to fasten the sections together. Attach L brackets to the corners for an enhanced, secure hold.
Step 3: Cut and Install the Countertops
The counters are made from plywood, too. When cutting your countertop, add the number of inches of overhang you want on the back and the front of the bar. Mark the corners of the counter where the bamboo pole roof posts will go–one on each corner. Cut the holes and slide the poles through them to ensure they’re the proper size. Apply glue to the top edge of the bar base, place the counter piece on top, and secure it in place with nails.
Bamboo Wainscoting – How to Build Your Own Tiki Bar
Step 4: Insert Roof Posts
Apply glue inside the post holes, then insert a bamboo pole into each one. Have a friend hold each pole level while you hammer a nail in from the bottom. Nailing a small piece of plywood to the pole under the countertop will add extra support.
Step 5: Install Bamboo Wainscoting
Use glue and a staple gun to attach bamboo wainscoting to the front and sides of the bar base.
Step 6: Frame the Roof
Cut bamboo poles to create a frame or border around the top of your roof posts. Use lag bolts to secure 2-by-4s to the outside of the border at each post. Use another set of 2-by-4s to create a frame for the roof.
Step 7: Thatch the Roof
Use a staple gun to fasten thatching to the roof frame. If necessary, trim off excess overhang.