Is there a metal recycler or scrap yard near you? The recycling company where I take cans and bottles buy all scrap metals. I've bought things there. This one sells metal for a little more than they pay for it, by the pound. I saw a bunch of wrought iron fencing there yesterday but don't need it yet.

Some people here use freecycle or Craigslist. You can post what you're looking for there and might get lucky. Read Susie's post on the conversation side about getting things on Freecycle (Link below). Tell everyone you know what you're looking for. Someone may have it laying around and just give it to you. Try Google images.

Whatever materials you're looking for, I know someone is throwing it away right now. Linda

Here is a link that might be useful: Susie Rose's Good Advice

Gazebo that is missing it's cloth covering is a popular thing that people give away. A wind storm blows and tears it and they do not want the necked framing. We got one and attached vinyl lattice around it for our roses to attach to.
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Next time you get to the library, look up books by Jim Long. He has a number of books explaining how to create rustic garden structures and furniture from twigs and branches. If you have some trees and bushes (or know someone else who has), you can create something wonderful from the prunings. Below is a link to a video where he explains how to make a trellis with P. Allen Smith.

Jim Long also owns a farm - Long Creek Herbs - where he sells herbs and herb concoctions along with his how-to books on rustic garden structures. If you google Long Creek Herbs you will find his site and from there you can read his blog.

Here is a link that might be useful: How to Build a Bentwood Trellis

I've been looking into hog panels to use as a small arbor. I saw a picture of one used as an arbor that looked nice. When I looked up the materials, I found you can get them in 4'-6' widths. They run about $40-50 dollars at Tractor Supply. I am still researching those but they look pretty good and seem to be sturdy.

Thanks everyone. I don't know why I hit a mental block. Excellent ideas.