We used 2 x 2 pine lumber but you can also use a mix of the 2 x 2's and 1 x 2's for variation.

The side "rungs" are what can be cut from 1 x 2's making the obelisk a little less heavy but still very sturdy.

The rungs gradually get smaller at you go up the structure of the obelisk.

Building the second side is faster as you have the first as a template.

Set the two "ladders" side by side and attach the rungs, connecting the two sides together.

Paint with an exterior paint (protects from weather since this is pine and not cedar) or organic tung oil. Place in your garden and train a rose up it, use it as a tomato cage or even build an arbor with it!
Would you like to see it in the garden? Come on over to the blog and I will show you! Flower Patch Farmhouse garden obelisk