Hi Indiana, I built mine at 2" (I think Jack the Spliffer suggested it.) I used a cord that was the diameter of parachute cord, something like 3/16" or a few millimeters. The frame is 3/4" PVC white drain pipe glued together with PVC glue. I wove the cord together as I threaded it through the frame. This feature creates enough friction that I can force the cord around to distort the size of any specific opening I want to and the cord stays where I put it. Subsequently the squares can be pulled open and pushed closed to allow me to accommodate the plant. Good Luck!