Wooden frames

Remove the wedge from the top bar. Assemble the top bar, side bars and one bottom bar. Side bars have the groove on the inside.

Nail as shown – 2 nails for each side bar, and nail bottom bar up through side bar when nailing Hoffman frames.

Bend over long wire loops of foundation. Slide foundation along grooves onto top bar.

Nail the wedge onto the top bar, trapping the bent wires. Nail through each loop of wire at a slight angle. Fit and nail the second bottom bar.

When assembling Hoffman self-spacing frames, ensure the two ‘V’ shaped edges are in the same orientation as the diagram.

Hives

Hives can also be bought in self-assembly form.

Hive Assembly Instructions

1. Insert side wall pieces into grooves in outer wall pieces.
2. For supers with a frame spacer saw cut, the cut should be at the top and nearest to the outside (see diagram).
3. Push locking bars into the rebates, bevelled bar at the bottom (see cross section).
4. Adjust the inner walls to be flush with the rebates in the locking bars (see cross section).
5. Nail through outer walls into side walls as shown with 50mm (2”) nails.
6. Nail locking bars to outer walls as shown with 50mm nails.
7. Nail locking bars from inside using 35mm (1½) nails.
8. Attach the runners using brass escutcheon pins to give correct bee space. Top of runner should be 11mm below top of hive.
   
   A water proof glue can be used on joints if desired.