"DIYDan" wrote in message

I would buy the prefab kind of columns with the metal tube down the
center but they don't have any plain smooth square columns at Home
Depot. I don't want something fancy. Any ideas?


Go some place other than Home Depot? You local lumber yard may have a
better selection. I've seen things like you describe used on TOH or some
decorating show.

There are many nice items that you'll never find in the mass market stores.