The Greeks and Romans did not 
use balusters. They 
were a 
Renaissance innovation by Bramante in his Tempietto from 
1502; but are commonly associated 
with classical 
      architecture. 
       
       
       
      The Romans 
      used cross pattern known as Roman Lattice or Transenna. Imperial has an impressive collection of wood 
and non wood single and double balusters and railings.  The shape of the 
single baluster was inspired by the 
shape of the bud of the pomegranate tree.  
 
The proper way to 
start a baluster run should be half baluster engaged to each end supported by a newel post.