When I was putting it together, I couldn't get two of the rods in.  The diamater of the rod was bigger than the hole it needed to go in.  I had to sand it down and then pound it in.  I spent more than 1/2 hour trying to assemble this blanket rack.  Once it was all together, I was very happy with it.  It is a very beautiful piece and am extremly excited to give it to  my parents for Christmas.