Complete Guide To Creating A DIY Arch Reading Nook

Creating a cozy, nature-inspired reading nook doesn’t have to be expensive. With a little creativity, you can build an inviting arch canopy using sturdy store-bought frames, playful DIY materials like pool noodles and hula hoops, repurposed camping tent arches, or even budget-friendly $13 dome tents from Big W and Kmart. This guide brings together all the options we’ve explored.

Option 1: Bunnings Garden Arch

Materials:

• Garden arch kit (steel or timber) from Bunnings

• Sheer fabric (curtains, tulle, or muslin)

• Fairy lights or flower garlands

• Cushions and rug for seating

• Anchors (brackets, sandbags, or weights)

Steps:

1. Assemble the garden arch according to instructions.

2. If the height is too tall, omit a section (steel arches) or cut down timber posts.

3. Secure the arch indoors with brackets or weights for stability.

4. Drape sheer fabric across the arch to create a canopy.

5. Wrap fairy lights and flower garlands around the frame.

6. Place a rug and cushions underneath to complete the nook.

Recommended Bunnings Arches:

• Lotus Black Steel Garden Arch—$22.99

• Lotus 2.5m Metal Garden Arch – $42.99

• Brunnings Classic Timber Arch – $169

• Brunnings Versailles Garden Arch – $179

Pros:

• Sturdy and long-lasting.

• Affordable (from $23 to $179 depending on the model).

• Easy to decorate with fabric and lights.

Cons:

• Requires assembly and anchoring.

• Timber versions may need cutting to adjust height.

Option 2: Pool Noodle & Hula Hoop Arch

Materials:

• 4–6 pool noodles

• Hula hoop (cut in half for structure)

• Strong duct tape or gaffer tape

• Wooden dowels or PVC pipe (optional for rigidity)

• Sheer fabric, fairy lights, flower garlands

• Weighted bases (sandbags, baskets, or boxes)

Steps:

1. Bend pool noodles into an arch shape and tape ends together.

2. Insert dowels or PVC pipe inside noodles for extra strength.

3. Use a hula hoop cut in half as a base curve, taping noodles over it.

4. Anchor the ends into weighted baskets or boxes.

5. Drape fabric across the arch and decorate with lights and flowers.

6. Add cushions and a rug underneath for comfort.

Pros:

• Very low cost (pool noodles $2–$3 each).

• Lightweight and safe for children.

• Flexible and easy to customize.

Cons:

• Less sturdy than garden arches.

• Needs creative anchoring to stay upright.

Option 3: Camping Tent Arches

Materials:

• Spare camping tent poles (fiberglass or aluminum)

• Tent connectors or DIY base anchors (wooden blocks, PVC holders, or weighted baskets)

• Sheer fabric (curtains, tulle, muslin)

• Fairy lights or flower garlands

• Cushions, rug, and storage baskets

Steps:

1. Connect tent poles into one or two long arches.

2. Anchor the ends into weighted bases or blocks to keep upright indoors.

3. Drape sheer fabric across the arches to form a canopy.

4. Clip or tie fabric at the top so it cascades down the sides.

5. Wrap fairy lights or flower garlands around the poles.

6. Add cushions and a rug underneath to complete the nook.

Pros:

• Low cost if you already have spare tent poles.

• Lightweight and flexible.

• Easy to assemble and disassemble.

Cons:

• Less sturdy than garden arches.

• Needs creative anchoring indoors.

• Limited height depending on tent design.

Option 4: $13 Dome Tent Hack (Big W & Kmart)

Materials:

• $13 2-Person Dome Tent (Big W or Kmart)

• Tent poles (fiberglass, included with the tent)

• Weighted bases (sandbags, baskets, or boxes)

• Sheer fabric, fairy lights, flower garlands

• Cushions and rug

Steps:

1. Assemble the tent poles into arches without attaching the tent fabric.

2. Anchor the ends into weighted baskets or boxes indoors.

3. Drape sheer fabric across the arches to create a canopy.

4. Decorate with fairy lights and flower garlands.

5. Add cushions and a rug underneath for comfort.

Pros:

• Extremely low cost ($13 for a full tent kit).

• Poles are flexible, lightweight, and safe.

• Easy to repurpose for classroom or home nooks.

Cons:

• Poles are less sturdy than garden arches.

• Tent fabric is not needed; only poles are used.

• Requires secure anchoring indoors.

Reference Products:

• Big W Nest & Seek 2-Person Dome Tent – $13

• Kmart Anko 2-Person Dome Tent – $13

Comparison Chart

Educator Tips

• Rotate books seasonally or by theme to keep the nook engaging.

• Use the space for mindfulness breaks, storytelling, or one-on-one chats.

• Always check stability and safety before children use the nook.

Whether you choose a Bunnings garden arch for durability, a pool noodle/hula hoop arch for playful affordability, camping tent arches for repurposed flexibility, or the $13 dome tent hack for ultra-low cost, each option creates a magical canopy space that encourages children to relax, read, and imagine. With fabric, lights, and cushions, you can transform any corner into a restorative, inviting reading nook.