I love to see kids playing outdoors. Don’t you? One great way to get them enjoying the outdoors is to make a swing kids will love. I saw this excellent DIY swing tutorial on Hallmark’s Home & Family show, which airs weekdays at 10 am ET/PT on Hallmark Channel. I was given permission to share this wooden swing with you here. Ken Wingard, is the DIY genius behind this project and he created this wooden tree swing for his own kids. It is a great way to spruce up the yard and make it even more fun for the summer. Here are the simple step by step directions for how to make a swing to hang from a tree or play structure.
DIY Wood Tree Swing
Making your own swing is a fun, budget-friendly DIY project that adds a personal touch to your outdoor space. It allows you to customize the design, size, and materials to fit your needs and style. Plus, it’s a satisfying way to create lasting memories with family or friends. You can make this tree swing with just a few very affordable supplies. You will be happy with how simple it is to put together this charming wooden tree swing and the kids will enjoy swinging for hours.
Wooden Tree Swing DIY Supplies:
- Eight 2″ x 2″ wood planks
- Fourteen 1” wooden beads
- Two lengths of rope (nylon, load bearing up to 75 pounds- doubled will be good up to 150)
- drill
- 3/8-inch drill bit
- sandpaper
- tree swing hanging apparatus of your choosing
If you want to keep the wood safe from the elements, I suggest using a clear polyurtethane before you put them on the rope. Or a stain to match your porch wood.
How To Make A Swing For Tree:
1. You will need eight pieces of 2 by 2 wood cut to 10 inches in length.
2. Use sandpaper to sand all the hard edges down and to round the corners.
3. Mark ¾ of an inch in from the outside edge of the planks and drill one 3/8th inch hole in the wood on each side.
4. If your wooden beads do not come with a hole through the center, drill their holes to be 3/8 of an inch as well. The best way to accomplish this is to put them in a clamp and then drill the hole.
5. Cut your rope into two pieces. The lengths will depend on where you are hanging it and how much you will need to make it the right length for your child to sit on the swing. When you cut the rope, wrap the ends in masking tape to hold the outer layer together. You will burn the ends of the nylon rope to seal them when the swing is complete.
6. Tie the short end of your rope to the long end of your rope, forming a triangle, using an anchor bend knot.
7. Use the doubled rope with the knot to bead your planks alternating with your wooden beads. The knot will be slightly adjustable before it is tightened, so position the swing how you like it and leave the amount of rope you want between the knot and the planks before pulling in tight on both sides.
How To Hang A Swing:
Once you’ve made your DIY swing, here’s how to hang it safely:
- Choose a sturdy support – Pick a strong tree branch (at least 8 inches thick) or a solid beam.
- Use strong rope or chains – Opt for weather-resistant rope or rated for at least 150 lbs or up to 300 lbs if adults may want to use it too
- Attach hardware – Use heavy-duty eye bolts or swing hangers screwed into the branch or beam.
- Secure the swing – Tie knots tightly or use carabiners to attach the swing seat to the rope or chain.
- Test it – Gently test the swing with weight before use to ensure it’s stable and balanced.
Conclusion
This kids tree swing is great because it grips each size rider just ride as they swing. This diy tree swing is sure to make your backyard more fun!
Making your own wooden swing is a rewarding project that combines creativity, craftsmanship, and a touch of nostalgia. It not only adds a charming, handmade touch to your outdoor space, but also becomes a fun and relaxing spot for all ages to enjoy. With a little effort and imagination, you can create something both beautiful and functional—perfect for making memories.
Do you think you will try this wooden tree swing diy project? Check out more fun DIY projects at the Family Focus Blog Pinterest Page.
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