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A swing is considered the simplest and most convenient means of relaxation and entertainment in a summer cottage. To make a wooden swing with your own hands, you will need drawings and photos of finished models. All this can be found in our article. Using ready-made diagrams, it will be quite simple to make a swing, and the use of improvised means and wood will allow you to reduce financial costs to a minimum.
Creating a swing should begin with the selection of materials. The most practical material wood is considered for this purpose. It is relatively easy to process and affordable.
Let's look at the main advantages and disadvantages of wood as a building material for swings.
Advantages:
- Environmental safety. The tree does not contain harmful compounds that negatively affect human health.
- Aesthetic appearance. A wooden swing fits organically into the overall natural picture of a dacha or garden. In addition, the ability to decorate some elements yourself allows you to give the swing the desired look.
- Low cost and availability of source material.
However, in addition to all the advantages, there are a number of significant disadvantages. Wood is a rather fragile material. For a long time and safe operation swings, you need to regularly treat the main parts of the structure. Also, the disadvantages of wood include:
- Sensitivity to weather conditions. Snow, rain and direct sunlight negatively affect all wooden parts.
- Susceptibility to rot, fungus and destruction by insects. To protect against such influences, it is necessary to treat the wood with special antiseptic compounds and varnish.
- Destruction due to temperature changes. A sharp decrease and increase in ambient temperature can lead to the appearance of cracks, which will ultimately lead to the inability to safe use swing.
Which wood to choose
Pay attention! Despite the fact that insects prefer other types of trees, you should not neglect treating the wood with special compounds. In combination with the characteristics of these rocks, this will only increase the reliability and durability of the structure.
It is also recommended to take oak to create any buildings made of wood. This wood is extremely strong and durable, and buildings made from it are of the highest quality. The only disadvantage of oak is the cost of the building material.
For lack of others tree species Linden is used. It resists impact well low temperatures, has increased strength and has an aesthetic appearance.
Types of garden swings
The number of types of swing designs is quite large, but they all come down to three main types, or are their modifications:
There is nothing difficult in creating a swing if you have enough materials, necessary tools. For planning, you can use our step-by-step instructions and drawings, or make your own diagrams based on them. Below we will look at how to make the base of a swing.
Frame manufacturing and installation
To construct the main part of the swing, you need to buy and deliver it in advance building materials. This will require wood with transverse dimensions 150x45 mm of the following length:
- 2100 mm – 1 board (for crossbar).
- 2775 mm – 3 boards (for legs).
- 320 mm – 2 boards for spacers at the top of the base.
- 990 mm – 2 boards for spacers at the bottom of the base.
Below is a drawing of a classic A-frame type.
When cutting parts of the base yourself, you can use the following scheme for spreading and aligning the legs.
After preparing and trimming the materials, it is necessary to connect the legs with the spacers and crossbar with screws. Fastening is carried out in the places indicated in the diagram.
The lower part of the structure is dug half a meter into the ground. This way, the lower brace will be level on the surface of the ground.
The base crossbar must be strictly horizontal to the surface. This can be checked with a bubble level. If everything was done correctly and the swing was installed on a flat, prepared surface, then there will be no problems. Otherwise, you need to level the swing by deepening one of the parts.
Important! Since some of the legs will be in the ground or concrete base, it is necessary to process these parts bitumen mastic. This will extend the life of the swing by reducing the impact of moisture on the wood.
It will be quite simple to prepare materials and assemble a swing with your own hands from wood, if you have drawings and photos of the desired model at hand. The video below provides a detailed explanation of the basic principles of assembling a swing.
Making a seat
To assemble the seat you will need lumber with transverse dimensions of 70x35 mm. Depending on the purpose of use, the length of such materials will be as follows:
- 955 mm - 2 support bars.
- 600 mm – 2 rear support posts.
- 1200 mm – 2 seat bars.
- 275 mm – 2 armrest supports.
- 600 mm – 2 armrests.
Also required are boards for the seat with dimensions 70x25mm of the following dimensions and functional needs:
- 1284 – 8 seat slats.
- 1300 – 3 backrest slats.
The assembly drawing of the seat parts is shown below.
To give additional strength, the support bars are reinforced from below with seat bars. Slots 35mm deep and 70mm wide are cut into the support bars to install supports for the armrests and rear pillars. After installation, they are fixed with screws.
The seat slats are screwed to the supporting parts. To make it more convenient, you can cut a small recess in the support bars according to the drawing.
A part for attaching to the rear pillars is cut out of the armrest parts and secured with screws. The second fastener is made from the top of the armrest to the end of the armrest support.
Parts of the backrest strip are attached to the rear support. Suspension mounts are installed in the base of the seat.
Important! After assembling all the parts, it is necessary to carefully process the parts of the seat, round the edges and remove all traumatic areas.
To add extra softness, you can sew a small pillow, or purchase a ready-made model in the store.
Fastener selection
The mounts are the most critical point in a swing. If they are not of sufficient quality or are installed incorrectly, the likelihood of getting injured on a swing increases greatly.
For garden swings, ropes or chains are most often used as suspensions. The rope is very easy to use, and some of its models have high internal friction, which limits the speed and force of swinging, thereby protecting against high risks of injury. However, the ropes at the attachment points can quickly fray.
Chains are more reliable, withstand high loads and take a long time to break down. If the chain links are rubbing heavily against each other, this is immediately obvious. A chain with large links can pinch children's fingers, so for children's swings they choose a chain with a small link.
Rigid mounts are usually used where a bearing mechanism can be installed for smooth rolling. Installing such a mechanism on a wooden swing is problematic and requires special skills and equipment.
To attach the suspension to the main structural parts - frame and seat, you can use the following mounting parts:
Attention! Mounting parts in the seat are installed only in its support beams. Do not attach the seat to the upper parts, as under load they can easily tear away from the main part.
Canopy
Excellent protection against direct sun rays and there will be a canopy of rain. If you have a wild imagination, you can create completely unimaginable structures in design and functional purpose. However, the installation of the canopy may require revision and modification of the design. We recommend that you foresee the presence and shape of the canopy in advance, which will help change the drawing in the desired direction.
The simplest and relatively inexpensive canopy is a roof made of a polycarbonate sheet mounted on a metal profile. The sides of the canopy determine its shape. It can be classic pyramidal or semicircular. To give rounded shapes, you need to use a pipe bender.
Cross bars metal profile will create additional strength of the suspended structure. They can be welded to the main beams of the canopy or bolted. TO wooden frame the canopy is secured with transverse metal struts to the legs and mounting devices to the crossbar.
The polycarbonate sheet is attached to the metal base with special press washers - self-tapping screws with wide heads or bolts. It is necessary to pre-drill holes in the metal profile required sizes for installation of mounting parts. The size of the sheet and the canopy as a whole should be such that it cannot be caught during swinging and cause injury.
Once the canopy is fully installed, you can paint the polycarbonate in the desired color. It should be remembered that the increase in weight on the swing legs should be compensated by increasing the thickness of the starting materials.
It will be quite simple to assemble a swing from wood with your own hands, having at your disposal the necessary drawings and photos of similar models. The swing will make it fun. Landscaping tips on the site will help transform the appearance of your home and summer cottage.
It is difficult to imagine a person who did not ride on a swing at least once as a child. Even as adults, many still love to relax and swing in the garden at the dacha, not to mention children. Many install structures bought in a store on their site, and some create country masterpieces on their own. The editors of the site bring to your attention a review from which you will learn how to create a rather popular attraction - a garden swing with your own hands: photos and drawings will be a good help in this.
Read in the article
Types of garden swings with photographs of models
Swings are divided by material of manufacture, type of construction and purpose. For example, there are designs for adults, children and the whole family. Let's look at some features various designs depending on their purpose.
Swings for adults
Swings for adults are distinguished by their simplicity and increased structural strength. They can be stationary or portable. Swings for a summer house are made from a variety of materials and must withstand a load of more than 120 kg. Designs can have a variety of shapes.
Attraction for children
Comfortable swing seat
An ordinary (the simplest option), an old one, can be used as a seat for a swing. car tire, or a bench with a back, sofas. Structures intended for children must be equipped with special seat belts.
Hanging chairs
Attaching the suspension to the supporting structure
The attachment of the seat to the support can be rigid or flexible. In the first option, use wooden beam, metal corner or pipe. Cables, chains and ropes are used for flexible suspension.
Swing seat with chains and ropes
The flexible suspension allows you to build a swing from scrap materials and install it very quickly. The simplest option is a board and two pieces of rope, which are attached to a thick tree branch on the site or veranda. Using chains, ropes and cables, you can attach the seat to both stationary and mobile support structures. It is not recommended to use flexible harnesses for riding small children, since such structures are not stable and unsafe twisting of cables, chains or ropes is possible. To set up a swing, it is better to use chains or metal cables, since hemp ropes can stretch and sag, which will affect the reliability of the structure.
Rigid suspensions made of metal and wood
Used for hanging seats from wooden beams supporting structure, metal corners or pipes has its advantages. This option is more reliable and allows you to withstand more weight. A rigid suspension is best suited for children's swings.
How to make a swing “nest” with your own hands
The “nest” is a suspended structure with a round wicker seat. This swing model is also called a “basket” or “spider web”. The nest swing can accommodate 2-3 children or one adult. However, strong ropes must be used to suspend this attraction.
To create such an attraction you will need the following materials:
- climbing safety rope, hemp or synthetic cord with Ø 5-6 mm for seat arrangement;
- durable fabric and felt for exterior finishing seats;
- steel water pipe for the installation of a supporting structure;
- gymnastic hoop Ø 900 mm for making a seat frame.
Playgarden Hanging swing “Nest”
Scheme and step-by-step instructions for creating a do-it-yourself outdoor swing for your dacha
The creation of a “nest” type swing begins with the manufacture of a wicker or textile seat. If the attraction is intended only for children, then gymnastic hoops will be needed. The structure, designed for adults, is made of a steel pipe with a diameter of 16 mm and a length of 1,500 mm, which is formed into a circle on a pipe bending device. The joint is welded. Cables are attached to the frame, and the hoop is braided using the dream catcher or macrame technique. The seat cords are pulled tight to prevent sagging. The hoop is finished with foam rubber and textiles or tarpaulin.
When the seat is ready, you can begin to create the support structure. To do this, you can use a profile pipe or a thick wooden beam. The support for hanging the seat is made as follows.
- We assemble two side A-shaped structures.
- If the swing is stationary, then the sides are dug into the ground. The distance between the supports must be equal to the height of the structure.
- The sides at the top are connected by a steel pipe to which the seat will be attached.
- Cables, ropes or suspension chains are attached to the crossbar. To prevent abrasion of the cables from contact with the pipe, a polyester gasket is placed under them.
- The seat is attached to cables, ropes or chains using four carabiners.
After the structure is ready, it needs to be tested for strength. To do this, it is necessary to place a load with a total weight of about 120-150 kg on the seat. This will allow you to check the tension of the cables, the braid of the hoop, and also adjust the optimal distance between the seat and the ground.
How to make a metal swing with your own hands at the dacha
Metal swings for dachas can be stationary, with a rigid structure, or collapsible. The first option is preferable because it provides greater stability, safety and reliability. However, in this case, welding skills are required. The collapsible design is less reliable, since loosening of the joints may occur during operation.
Drawings of a DIY metal garden swing
We present one of the solutions for constructing a garden swing.
We invite you to watch a video on how to make a metal swing with your own hands.
How to make a swing from a profile pipe with your own hands
Profile pipe – best option for production metal swing, especially collapsible portable structures. This is due to the fact that in this case you can do without welded joints. The swing can be easily assembled using nuts. As we have already said, a bolted connection is less reliable than a welded one due to loosening during operation, but this problem can be solved by regularly checking the fastening points and, if necessary, eliminating the resulting play.
Let's consider the option of creating a metal swing for a summer house from profile pipe using welding.
Drawings for making a country swing with your own hands
Detailed manufacturing instructions
To make a metal swing from a profile pipe, you will need the following materials and tools:
- electric drill;
- square and tape measure;
- "Bulgarian";
- metal brush;
- paint brush or roller;
- 40 × 40 × 2,000 mm – 5 pcs.;
- pipe 20 × 20 × 1000 mm – 2 pcs.;
- profile 20 × 40 × 1,000 mm – 3 pcs.;
- board 20 × 90 × 1,500 mm – 7 pcs.
| Illustration | Description of action |
 | To begin with, take two pipes and at an angle of 45°. We check the angles: internal - 45°, and external turn - 90° |
 | We take a piece of pipe for the cross member, measure 700 mm from the bottom edge and mark the corners. We cut off the excess with a grinder and a cutting wheel. Using welding, we connect together all the parts of the A-shaped sidewall. The distance between the lower ends of the side pillar should be approximately 1,600 mm |
 | We make the second side of the swing in the same way. |
 | We install the sidewalls, and on them we place the upper crossbar, on which the swing seat will be attached. We check the angles between the vertical posts and the crossbar: they should be exactly 90° |
 | Additionally, we strengthen the structure with two sections of profile pipe, which we use to connect the sidewalls. It is necessary to weld two “ears” to the upper cross member for attaching the seat hangers |
 | Now let's start making the swing seat itself. To do this, you need to take three sections of profile pipe with a cross-section of 20 × 40 mm and attach them together by welding. Step back 100 mm from the edge and place the first mark. Next, apply marks at a distance of about 120 mm from each other |
 | Using a grinder, make V-shaped cuts at the marks. The outermost cuts should be made from the reverse side. After all the pipes have been cut, you need to bend the structure to the desired shape |
 | All joints in each pipe must be boiled, and the excess must be cut off |
 | Separate the pipes, weld and clean all the seams using a grinder and paint |
 | We attach the pipes to the cut boards. To do this, drill Ø 4 mm holes in them. We fix the boards using self-tapping screws |
 | It turns out this is the seat |
 | We attach “ears” for suspension to the upper part of the backrest to the side pipes |
 | We drill the edge of the pipe on the seat and install bolts for fastening to the chain |
 | Attach the suspension chains to the seat |
 | We hang the sofa on the top crossbar using carabiners |
How to make a swing from wood with your own hands
Making a wooden swing for a summer house with your own hands is the best option, since you don’t need to deal with welding: not everyone has one, and not everyone knows how to use it. With a tree the situation is completely different. A wooden swing can be made by almost anyone who knows how to handle and
For a cottage or private home there is no better decoration than a swing - an excellent place for an afternoon relaxation for the whole family. Would you like to install them on your site? In our instructions you will find all the necessary information on how to make a swing with your own hands from wood for a summer house and garden, and not only about that.
The material is divided into three parts.
- In the first part of the article, we will look at the properties of wood and which species is best to choose to make a garden swing with your own hands. Next, we will clarify what types of wooden swings there are, and also provide a table calculating the strength of supporting structures so that you can calculate the weight load.
- In the second part of the material, we will conduct several step-by-step master classes, from which you will learn how to make the most popular and not too complicated designs of wooden swings for the dacha. Among them: single rooms with wooden frame, from timber and logs, in the form of a sofa and bench, from pallets, double outdoor swings and swing-balance for children, as well as simplest option from the board.
- The third part of the article is aimed at arranging a garden swing. Let's discuss their decoration, painting and choice of covers. You will learn how to make a wooden swing seat with your own hands, how to secure it and repair it if it cracks. In conclusion, we will consider the main options for the roof of a swing for a summer house and garden and how to care for such attractions.
Wood as a material: characteristics and properties
To build a good swing, first of all you need to take care of the selection quality materials. The most popular is wood - a cheap and practical raw material that will not cause difficulties in use even for beginners, not to mention experienced builders. Outdoor swings for a summer cottage made of wood are popular in all types of areas - they fit organically into landscape design, easy to use. Let's try to figure out what are the pros and cons of using such material.
Advantages and disadvantages of wood
You don't need to have any serious carpentry skills to work with wood - all you need is a few supplies (we'll talk about them a little later). Among the advantages of wood it should be noted:
- environmental friendliness - such material looks more organic on the site, the more flowers, bushes and trees you place on it;
- aesthetics of wooden buildings - with a competent approach to decoration, the result can exceed all expectations;
- low price.
However, when listing the advantages, one cannot help but pay attention to some disadvantages. The most significant of these is the relative fragility of wood. Unlike a metal swing, a wooden swing will require much more careful care. Wood with difficulty endures such natural factors as:
- rain;
- snow;
- direct sunlight;
- fungus and mold;
- insects;
- sudden temperature changes;
- decay processes.
That is why it is important to cover the wood with special antiseptics or simply varnish or stain. 
Which breed is better to choose for a swing?
Please note that some breeds coniferous trees may undergo rotting, which can be combated locally by covering the fungus-affected areas with a special antiseptic (pinotex has proven itself well).
Oak is considered an excellent raw material for buildings of any type, but it has a significant drawback - high price raw materials. However, it is very durable, massive and quite easy to work with when decorating. 
Another option would also be to build a swing from linden - it is rarely used for large buildings, because it does not have a sufficient degree of protection from the cold, however, for a swing this factor does not play a significant role. The material itself looks attractive, while possessing the necessary level of strength.
Calculation of strength for beams of wooden swings
The strength of the swing is calculated based on the crossbar on which the swing will be hung. The thickness/height/length of the crossbar is taken into account. In the table below you can see what approximate loads the support will withstand at these quantitative values.
Types of garden swings made of wood
Wooden swings come in a variety of shapes and construction methods. We invite you to draw your attention to the proposed options for country garden swings made of wood; each of them has a number of advantages and disadvantages that must be taken into account before starting construction.
By installation method
According to the installation method, the swing can be:
- stationary
- portable
- hanging
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By purpose
Outdoor swings for the dacha can be divided according to their purpose. Not every design is suitable for use by even two people at the same time. This classification implies division into swings:
- family;
- for children;
- for adults.
 | Family swing. They can easily accommodate up to 4 people. They are based on a large bench, which helps to place both children and adults on the swing without much difficulty. The structure must have powerful fasteners installed and be made of durable wood. |
 | Wooden children's swing. This is a small design designed for low weight - most often they are designed for one or two places, and you can swing quite high on them. These are installed more for entertainment than relaxation. An important component are safety elements - comfortable backrest and handrails that will help secure the child’s position. |
 | Outdoor swing for adults. They are considered one of the indispensable attributes of an area equipped for recreation. Such swings cannot swing widely, but in most cases they have canopies, which makes it possible to enjoy relaxation even in rain, wind or scorching sun. Sometimes insect nets are attached to such swings - they look like tents and can rival even gazebos in terms of comfort. |
Properties of different types of wood
A few words should be said about the types of wood, because not every wood is suitable for creating a swing, because such a building must not only resist the challenges of nature, but also withstand certain loads every day. Strength limits different breeds wood are given in the table below.
| Larch | Pine | Spruce | Oak | Birch | Aspen | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| When compressed along the fibers | 64,5 | 48,5 | 44,5 | 57,5 | 55,0 | 42,5 |
| When stretched along the fibers | 125,0 | 103,5 | 103,0 | 168,0 | 125,5 | |
| When growing across the fibers radially | 5,6 | 5,4 | 5,0 | 8,0 | 11,1 | 7,1 |
| When growing across the fibers tangentially | 5,2 | 3,5 | 3,2 | 6,5 | 6,5 | 4,6 |
| With static bending | 111,5 | 86,0 | 79,5 | 107,5 | 109,5 | 78,0 |
| When folded along the fibers radially | 9,9 | 7,5 | 6,9 | 10,2 | 9,3 | 6,3 |
| When folding along the fibers tangentially | 9,4 | 7,3 | 6,8 | 12,2 | 11,2 | 8,6 |
Wood is also chosen because of its texture - the pattern on the cut that is obtained when the fibers or growth rings intersect. The texture closely depends on the type of wood: for conifers it is simpler, for deciduous trees it is more varied. Here are the textures of some rocks:
An important physical factor is the shine of wood. The most brilliant structures are those made of beech, oak and mahogany (otherwise known as mahogany).
Do-it-yourself single swing made of wood
If you are interested in high-quality construction, then you should pay attention to the instructions and advice of experts. We will now tell you in detail how to make a garden swing with your own hands from wood.
We should start with the fact that a single-seat wooden garden swing is not designed for a large seated weight (up to 120 kg). Most often they are installed for small children. If you decide to install a children's swing, then, among other things, you need to think about a protection system for the baby to avoid falls and injuries.
Drawing and project
Do-it-yourself drawings of a garden swing made of wood will be necessary for a more detailed study of the appearance of the structure. The diagram should reflect:
- overall length, width, height;
- height of vertical pillars;
- vertical beam length;
- the length of the fastening bars supporting the vertical posts;
- the distance between the seat and the vertical beams on both sides;
- distance from the seat to the ground.
We have prepared a project and drawing of a wooden swing for you, check it out below.
It will be important to indicate the thickness of the board and the area on which the swing will be located. It is best to create a drawing from several angles - the better you approach planning, the less likely there are errors in calculations in the future.
Step by step instructions
You need to start building a swing for the garden with your own hands by choosing a location. Preferably, the terrain should be free of holes and hills. Otherwise, the swing will not be level.
 | We construct side vertical pillars. To do this, we take two 3100 mm bars. We can calculate the length of the bars (side “a”) knowing the height of the swing (side “b”) - 3000 mm and the angle at which the bars are connected at the top point - 30 degrees (β). The formula looks like this:
Base length – 1560 mm. |
 | Now between the vertical posts we insert a horizontal beam (a chain with a seat will be attached to it in the future) with a length of 3000 mm. After this, we drill a through hole from the top edge of the support post and screw in a screw and nut, strengthening the structure. |
 | We tilt the structure on its side and drill two through holes in a horizontal beam at a distance of 750 mm from the edges (for the construction of a suspension). We screw bolts and washers into them, and screw eye nuts onto the ends. Now we raise the support to our feet. |
 | Wooden spacers should be installed between the post beams. We will fasten it using metal corners and 5 mm screws. We fasten the upper spacer using corners. |
 | In this project, we install the swing without installing a concrete base, so we cover the beams with bitumen to extend their service life. We cover the wood with stain on top to give it the desired color. |
 | Let's take care of the seat. For the back we make bars with dimensions of 30x13x457 mm. For the seat frame, use bars with dimensions of 51x152 mm. You will need two of these frames (seat and back). Attach slats to the frames and tighten the seat and back using corners. For convenience, you can nail the armrests to the seat. We screw eye bolts to the sides (2 pieces on each side - one to the seat, one to the back). |
 | Let's hang the swing. We attach carabiners to the ring nuts and then attach two chains. The length of the chain that is attached to the seat is 1650 mm, and the one that is attached to the back is 1200 mm. Calculating the distance is quite simple; it is only important to remember that while sitting, a person should touch the ground with his feet. |
 | Since sitting on a wooden seat is not very comfortable, we recommend sewing special covers that can be removed and washed at any time. |
In order for both posts to have the same angle of inclination, we recommend that you first lay out the structure on the ground and then outline the necessary boundaries
DIY swing made of timber and logs
Timber is a material in which reliability is successfully combined with attractive appearance. You can easily make a swing from it for both children and adults. Due to the fact that this material is quite massive, a DIY wooden swing can turn out to be as beautiful as a store-bought one and as strong as an iron one. 
Advantages and disadvantages
Let's decide on the main pros and cons of a log swing. Let's start with the positive aspects:
- the swing is stable;
- such structures are difficult to damage not only to people, but also to adverse weather conditions, for example, strong wind;
- attractive appearance. As a rule, such swings look quite impressive, which makes them a real decoration of your garden plot.
Unfortunately, there are also disadvantages: wood, as you know, is very sensitive to all kinds of insects, and protecting logs from pests is somewhat more difficult than ordinary boards. Wood, among other things, tends to rot over time.
Antique wooden swing
If you want to make your yard a work of art, we recommend paying attention to the stylization of an antique wooden swing. To do this you need:
 | |
 | 2. Make notches and notches along all the beams of the swing. |
 | 3. Cover with the first layer of stain, let dry, then cover with one more layer and leave until completely dry. |
Let's make a garden swing with our own hands step by step
We suggest you build a wooden swing in the form of a bench, which is shown below. 
First, prepare a flat area for the swing. Use a yardstick and pegs to mark the boundaries of your structure. Study the drawing we have compiled of a swing made of timber with dimensions before proceeding with installation. 
It is necessary to prepare the material for installation. You will need 4 beams 2070 mm long and 100 mm in diameter. They will support the structure and are connected at an angle of 30 degrees in the form of an isosceles triangle (letter A). Base length – 1035 mm. The length of the partition at the base is 1035 mm. The length of the A-shaped partition is 455 mm (20 mm protrusion on each side). The width of the structure is 4500 mm, the width of the bench is 1500 mm. The diameter of all beams is 100 mm (it’s not clearly visible in the photo, but we recommend using this size).
 | We make vertical stands for the swing. We take two beams 2070 mm long and place them on the ground in the shape of an isosceles triangle. After this, using a compass and pencil, we mark a single circle on two bars with a diameter of 100 mm (each bar should have a semicircle with a radius of 50 mm). Using a grinder, cut out the marked area and sand it. We check how the horizontal beam fits into the recesses; if it protrudes, we file it a little and clean the vertical posts. We do the same with the other side. |
 | Now we place the racks vertically and secure the horizontal beam with long bolts with washers and nuts. We fix it on the other side in the same way. |
 | We make horizontal partitions. We make indentations on the vertical posts using a chisel and hammer. It should look like the picture. |
 | The first partition is A-shaped. First, you need to make a recess in it, since the diagonal support will go into it. We make a recess in the vertical pillars (for the upper and lower partitions). Next, we adjust the diagonal beam to fit the hole in the A-shaped beam. Finally, we cut it at the end at an angle of 45 degrees and attach it to the bolt. |
 | The upper spacer should be at a distance of 1110 mm from the base, the lower one - at a height of 50 mm. . We put the structure on its feet. At a distance of 1500 mm from the ends, we drill a hole and thread two bolts. Tighten everything with ring nuts. |
Swing in the form of a sofa
This type of swing really appeals to most summer residents with its attractive appearance. We will not consider step by step how to make a sofa swing for a summer house with your own hands, because... We have already described how to make supports from wood, and this is 75% of the structure. Using the drawings we provide, you can make a stand for such a swing. However, we will dwell in more detail on sofas for such swings.
Tips for building a sofa swing with your own hands
Such swings must be varnished from time to time - this will protect them from insects and cracks.
Pallet swing
Swings in the yard made from pallets for the dacha are a success among those who know a lot about saving and design ideas– such a design will be inexpensive and will attract attention from neighbors. How to make a swing from pallets with your own hands? Let's look at this issue. 
Which pallets to choose for a swing
Garden swings can be made from virtually any pallet. There are three types of pallets:
- European (1200x800);
- Finnish (1200x1000);
- American (1200x1200).
The latter are the strongest of those presented, but at the same time the heaviest. Finnish ones are best suited for swings - they are equally strong and light. It is advisable to use new pallets, but if you don’t have any on hand, you can use used ones, having repaired them in advance.
- Rigidity. The pallets must retain their shape during deflection and not break, otherwise the swing is unlikely to support the weight of even an adult.
- Price. No need to spend large number money to purchase pallets, just as you don’t need to save too much on their purchase. Here you should stick to the golden mean.
Step-by-step instructions for a do-it-yourself pallet swing
A simple but very convenient design - a swing-sofa made of pallets. Prepare pallets for work. Remove excess debris and excess nails (if the pallets have been used before).
 | We are preparing a general design drawing of a swing with a seat and frame. In this case, the width is 3000 mm, the height is 3000 mm, 4 crossbars are used as A-shaped supports, placed on both sides in the form of isosceles triangles at an angle of 30 degrees at the top attachment point. (the bench is not the same as in the drawing, but the same dimensions. The correct bench is in point 2). |
 | Explore detailed drawing the swings themselves made from pallets, provided by our editors. |
 | We cut the pallets according to the drawing with a jigsaw. |
 | We knock two pallets together with nails, as in the photo. If you use two pallets for the seat, then take care of the load-bearing logs nailed from below (they will take the weight of people). |
 | Make armrests. We use 4 bars of 80 mm height and 35 mm diameter. Nail them to the seat as in the photo. On top of each side we nail two boards, pre-polished. We screw on the eye bolts on which the chains will subsequently be attached. |
 | We make vertical pillars-supports. The creation scheme is the same as in previous cases - we cut off the edges of two inclined beams, and place a horizontal beam in the center. Then we fix it with bolts. We strengthen the edges of the horizontal beam with metal corners. |
For decoration, you can put several pillows on the seat or sew a separate cover so that you can spend time comfortably on the swing.
Double outdoor swing
Double outdoor swings on wooden stands are an option for families where children do not want to take turns riding. Making them is just as easy as making single ones, you just need a little more time. 
A double outdoor swing also requires additional calculations - in the drawing for the project, do not forget to think about the location of the seats so that when swinging they do not touch each other.
If the swing is a solid bench, then keep in mind that it will be quite heavy, so you should calculate the load on the fastening in advance. We advise you to study the table provided in the section “strength calculation for wooden swing beams”. Designs of this kind have their own characteristics:
- Wider top beam. If the seats are not connected to each other, we recommend making the length 4500 mm, but if the seats are connected - 3000-3500 mm.
- Reinforced base (column foundation).
Materials and tools
We propose to make the double garden swing for the dacha original - for two children with separate seats. This way, the children will get maximum pleasure while relaxing together. 
Tools:
- shovel;
- construction meter and pegs;
- hand drill;
- bucket;
- container for mixing concrete;
- saw or grinder;
- hammer (regular and rubber);
- drill with drills;
- adjustable wrench;
- grinder with a metal disc;
- welding machine;
- screwdriver
Materials:
- beams 100x100x3000 – 4 pcs;
- timber 70x200x4000 – 1 piece;
- bolts with eye nuts;
- carabiners for chains;
- metal chain 3000 mm long;
- plywood sheet 3 mm;
- paint (blue, red);
- professional pipe with a thickness of 10 mm and 50 mm.
Step-by-step instructions for a double outdoor swing with your own hands
Building a swing for the garden with your own hands begins with choosing a suitable place on your site. Make sure that the area is open and permanent buildings are located at least 5-7 meters from the site.
 | 1. We are preparing a project. After this, we mark the boundaries of the swing with pegs on the site. To make the structure more attractive, you can paint it in bright colors, but more on that later. |
 | 2. For the upper part of the swing frame we use a corrugated pipe with a diameter of 50 mm. It is necessary to weld two pieces 600 mm long at an angle of 45 degrees to the crossbar (if it is made of corrugated pipe) to make isosceles triangle. If the crossbar is made of timber, then we use nuts and bolts, pre-drilling holes of the required diameter. At a height of 250 mm from the base of the tubes, weld a spacer so that you get an A-shaped structure as in the photo. If you use a crossbar made of timber, it will be able to withstand a weight load of approximately 250 kg. |
 | 3. Drill 4 holes for bolts with eye nuts. |
 | 4. It is necessary to prepare vertical timber supports for a two-seater garden swing. We attach them to triangles made of corrugated pipe. We drill 5 holes in each triangle and tighten the screws. We do the same with the remaining legs. Finally we cover bottom part beams with antiseptic for longer service. |
 | 5. Take plywood and a jigsaw. Using a pencil, draw an equilateral triangle with sides 600x600x500 mm. Cut out a triangle and round its corners. After that, using self-tapping screws, we attach it to the vertical bars, closing them. |
 | 6. Now you need to make a columnar foundation. Using a hand drill, we make holes 400 mm deep. Add a layer of sand (100 mm) to the bottom. Next, install the swing legs and fill concrete mortar. We wait 2-3 days until it hardens. |
 | 7. Installation of seats. To do this, take several steel rods with a diameter of 10 mm and bend them as shown in the figure. Next, we connect them into a single structure using welding. At the top along each edge we weld fastenings for chains. We repeat the procedure for the second seat. |
| 8. Finally, you need to connect the seats to the upper horizontal beam using chains. We measure 4 pieces of 1800 mm each. Next, we attach it to the eye nuts using carabiners. All that remains is to decorate the swing. We take blue and red paints and paint the seats, as well as the pillars. Let it dry for a day and enjoy. |
Wooden swing balancer
You already know how to build a swing for your dacha with your own hands, but if you don’t want to deal with suspended structures, we can offer a balancer-type structure - an option for shared leisure time with your child or for general children’s entertainment.
Features of balancers
Children's homemade swings made of wood of this kind are good because they are difficult to break or damage. It is worth considering that such entertainment is only suitable if you have two children or you are constantly focused on playing with your child, since it makes no sense to ride a balance beam on your own.
In addition, balancers are several times more dangerous than conventional structures, and therefore there is no need to neglect safety rules when using them. For balancers, handrails and backrests are made in the safety frames.
Step by step instructions
Do-it-yourself outdoor swings are made as follows:
 | 1. Draw a drawing of your future swing-balance. Indicate the dimensions of all structural elements, as well as angles and radii. |
 | 2. Take a board 1500 mm long and sand it using sandpaper. Next, you should cut out small recesses 20 mm thick and 100 mm wide. The recesses should be located 280 mm from the ends of the board. |
 | 3. We cut out the parts for the recesses with dimensions as in the drawing. |
 | 4. Now you will need a board 20 mm thick, measure it as shown in the figure. Next, using a saw, cut off the unnecessary parts of the board. Finally, take the brace and drill a hole. Let's sand it down. After this, we fix the parts to the recesses using self-tapping screws. |
 | 5. We make vertical posts for the base of the swing. We take a board 650-680 mm long, 50 mm high and 60 mm wide. We sharpen the end of the board in the form of a stake using an ax; at the other end, using a brace, we drill a hole with a diameter of 25 mm. |
 | 6. We take a device for attaching the board to support posts with dimensions of 40x60 mm and a length of 160 mm. Sand and rub the ends so that you get a pointed rectangle. Then, using a saw, cut off a small piece from the end, 3-5 mm long. We do the same on the other side. Further using long drill Drill 25 mm through |
 | 7. Now you need a steel rod with a diameter of 24 mm and a length of 180 mm. Using a die, we make carvings on both ends by hand. Thread length – 5-6 mm. We hammer it into the drilled 25 mm hole in the block so that it fits very tightly; |
 | 8. Assembling the structure. We connect the long board and the block together using bolts (we drill a hole through and connect). We hammer the rod into the vertical posts and tighten the nuts. For greater strength, you can weld them. |
The assembly of the wooden garden swing is complete - now you and your children can enjoy their new toy in the yard!
A board swing is the easiest option
A few words about how to make a swing from boards at the dacha with your own hands. More precisely from one single board. The design is one of the most popular among summer residents and country builders. 
Assembling a wooden garden swing usually requires some time and materials. Here you only need one board and a rope. fasten this design we will go to wood (oak or any other solid tree will do). 
Unusual swing options
If you want to make something special for your children, we recommend that you pay attention to the unusual designs of homemade garden swings for the dacha. Their main difference is in the material, which is used either for the seat or for attaching the seat to the frame/wood.
You can create your own swing in the garden from tires, for example. 
An excellent option for a wicker round swing is a tire suspended from several fasteners using a rope or chain. In order to make such a structure, you will need to punch the tire right through and thread a rope or chain through the resulting holes, securing it. 
Another unusual option swing - floating benches. These are the most ordinary benches, suspended from a tree on ropes or chains. We recommend making such a garden swing from rattan or wicker and then hanging it by carabiners from the ceiling of your veranda or from a tree. 
Another option is to make a swing in the shape of an object, such as a car or an airplane. This design will take more time, but in the end your children will constantly play on them. To do this, you will need to spend a lot of time making individual parts, as well as connecting them together. However, the result will justify all your efforts. 
Decoration and arrangement
Wooden swings for relaxation can be decorated in various ways. It could be like decorative pillows, thrown on the seats, and intricate carvings along the edges of the beams. Lamps next to swings, including floor ones, look especially impressive. There are options to experiment with the rope - perhaps it can be braided with something bright.
Finishing features
A beautiful wooden swing cannot be imagined without finishing and decoration. At the same time, even a non-professional can try himself as a carver - for this you need to have a jigsaw and a little imagination. Remember that with hard rocks trees are somewhat easier to work with - although they are more reluctant to be finished, the end result will look many times better. 
You can paint the swing with the following materials:
- wood/metal paint;
- stain;
- antiseptic.
Painting
It is best to paint a garden swing immediately after installation. The paint should be chosen specifically for wood - it will not only adhere better, but will also protect the material from pests. At the same time, the paint, unfortunately, is not so durable - the swing will have to be repainted every few years. 
Paint is considered good protection against pests and insects, and the appearance of a painted swing is aesthetically pleasing.
Selection of covers, mattresses and pillows
Covers for swings are most often chosen in bright colors - there is no mistake in this, but it is worth considering that the material may fade in the air. It is best to select fabric for a garden swing from those that are considered waterproof (like tarpaulin or raincoat fabric). There is no chance that you will always carry the pillows into the house on time, and with tarpaulins the rain will not be so bad, and it will be much easier to dry them later. 
Pay attention to the fact that people will come into contact with the fabric, and not just natural factors - in order to make sitting on a swing not only comfortable, but also pleasant, you need to make sure that the fabric contains natural raw materials - for example , cotton or viscose.
The dimensions of the cover should be 3-4 mm larger than the dimensions of the seat so that you can adjust the cover. To attach the cover to the bottom of the wooden seat, we recommend using a construction stapler. 
Swing seat
If you don’t want to buy seats in a store, we suggest you consider the option of making a swing seat with your own hands using available materials. Pay attention to the fact that wooden seats will be more advantageous than metal ones - they are safer and more comfortable. On the other hand, their strength will be constantly tested, and it would be good to take this fact into account when designing. For a comfortable ride, it is recommended to cover the seats soft cloth- it also helps to avoid unnecessary injuries. 
Types of seats for swings
The design of the swing seats differs:
- with a backrest - for both children and adults;
- without backrest. Relevant for teenagers - may be too dangerous for children;
- with and without armrests;
By size:
- for garden swings - in the form of a bench or sofa;
- single seat for an adult or teenager - no more than 600 mm in width;
- for children's swings - single-seater with a width of no more than 500 mm, or even less.
According to the material of manufacture:
- plastic;
- tarpaulin;
- tree.
How to make a swing seat with your own hands
Making a swing seat with your own hands is extremely simple. You can knock it down from boards: 
You will need:
 | Prepare the seat frame. To do this, sand all the bars and then knock them down using nails (or screw in self-tapping screws). |
 | Nail the horizontal strips. The distance between each strip is 3 mm. |
 | Attach bars to the seat, on each of which a crossbar for the armrests is attached. |
 | We recommend fixing the backrest at an angle of 110 degrees. |
The seat is ready. After this, it is best to cover it with a special septic tank or stain/varnish.
If the seat on the swing that you made turned out to be unreliable (or you see that it will soon become so), then you should start repairing it.
- The most important thing is to remove the fabric and patch the holes after washing it first. You can use raincoat fabric or other strong material to patch holes (if the seat on a garden swing is torn). Often funny appliqués are attached in place of the holes - they are sold in the store.
- Repairing the seat on a garden swing can be completely radical: you can remove the seat completely and wrap the frame with a nylon cord. You will ride on such a swing for a very long time - the cord is very strong, and if something happens, it won’t take as long to re-tighten it as it would to patch it.
How to attach a swing to a horizontal crossbar?
We discussed how to assemble a country garden swing - it’s time to clarify how to secure them. The sizes of the drill, bolts and nuts depending on the design of the swing.
If you are attaching to a horizontal bar from above:
- Drill a hole through using a drill;
- Insert the bolt with washer;
- Screw the ring nut onto the underside of the crossbar.
If you are attaching to a seat:
- Drill a hole for fastening;
- We thread the bolt and washer;
- Screw in the ring nut.
To prevent the nut from being pressed through, it is advisable to place a washer under its head.
In the store you can find special fastenings various forms and devices. There is only one drawback to such a fastening - the swing begins to seriously creak during operation if the fastening is not lubricated in time.
Roof for outdoor swings
A roof for a swing in the garden can be made with your own hands almost as quickly as the swing itself. When creating a roof, it is best to focus on the shape of the building and its purpose. Let's consider several options for materials for a wooden swing with a roof for the garden.
How to care for a swing
During construction (as well as during subsequent operation), it should be taken into account that wood for a swing does not have the same strength and reliability as, for example, metal. Therefore, you need to pay close attention not only to how you will knock down the swing, but also to how to properly care for it.
- Once every few years (usually a period of 3-4 years is taken as a basis), it is advisable to treat the surface with a special anti-rotting agent.
- We recommend repainting the structure and refreshing the colors at some intervals.
- Don't forget about metal parts(for example, handrails on balance swings) - they will also need to be treated with an anti-rust and darkening agent.
- Fabric covers need to be washed periodically - once every one and a half to two months.
What kind and at what price should I buy a garden swing made of wood for my dacha?
At the end of our material, we have prepared a small selection so that you have an idea of how much garden swings cost and which ones are better to buy. Let's start with the most expensive and elite ones.
| Name | Photo | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
 | RUB 308,100 | Design dimensions: 290x190x210 cm. Permissible load 300 kg. Made from larch (laminated veneer lumber). The frame is varnished, and all materials are environmentally friendly. VIP option for elite areas. | |
 | RUB 172,900 | The dimensions of this garden swing are 264x180x207 cm. Withstands a maximum load of 300 kg. Made from coniferous wood, all materials are environmentally friendly. | |
| Garden swing “Aristocrat” |  | RUB 106,799 | Dimensions 224x167x200 cm. Withstands 200 kg. Environmentally friendly luxury furniture, made of solid spruce. Additionally coated with antiseptics that protect against rotting. |
 | RUB 95,401 | Dimensions: 250x155x245 cm. Withstands a maximum load of 200 kg. Made from natural coniferous wood, coated with acrylic varnish. | |
| Outdoor swing Kampfer Talking |  | RUB 47,039 | Swing dimensions: 240x260x240 cm. Maximum permissible load 150 kg. The stands are made of cedar. The set includes an awning. |
| Swing Gloria |  | RUB 30,676 | Dimensions: 221x265.5x212.5 cm. Maximum permissible load 200 kg. Also treated with special impregnation and moisture. |
| Garden swing Avola |  | RUB 23,690 | Dimensions: 208x165x204 cm. Made of solid timber (pine). Oxford cloth awning. The swing is treated with compounds against moisture and drying out. |
Swinging on a swing is a favorite pastime not only for children, but also for many adults. They relax, calm and calm the nerves. complete order. Currently, it is not difficult to purchase a ready-made design in a store. But it’s much more pleasant to make a swing with your own hands. The material can be wood or metal. Of course, you will need drawings. Use ready-made ones or create your own. Step-by-step instructions with photos and videos will tell you how to properly make a garden swing with your own hands in the country with little investment of money and labor.
The choice of materials for making garden swings is not so diverse and is limited to plastic, metal and wood. Two latest options are more popular. Therefore, let's consider positive aspects designs from them.
The main advantage of garden metal swings is their durability and long-term operation. It is worth noting that metal structures can be forged, welded or collapsible. Each of the options will fit perfectly into the overall style of the summer cottage.
Garden swings are easy to make with your own hands Advantages of wooden structures:
- Ease of manufacture.
- Economical in terms of material costs.
- Large number of design options.
- Harmony.
- Safety.
- Naturalness.
The last two points are most relevant to those who have small children. Environmental friendliness and non-invasiveness are the main criteria that parents should pay attention to.
Purpose
All swings can be divided into several groups according to the principle of purpose:
- family type;
- children's;
- covered for gazebos and terraces.
Baby swing
The requirements for children's swings are always higher. So, they come with or without a frame. Those designs that have only a seat and suspension are called frameless. They are quite easy to install and remove. The main disadvantage of swings is the increased degree of injury and low level of comfort. Frame swings are much more comfortable.
Attention! One of the important conditions for installing a swing for children is reliable fixation of the support.
Family swing
Such a swing looks like a bench suspended from a frame. The frames are A- or U-shaped, and the side pillars are dug into the ground at least 0.5 m, filled with cement mortar. Such structures are very stable and have good strength. They can accommodate several people at once. That's why they got that name.
Swing for the terrace
The main difference between swings and others is that they have some advantages. They can be disassembled and reassembled.
Family swing allows you to accommodate several people Drawings: how to read them correctly?
What is the drawing for? As with any design, this is an initial project in which everything is calculated down to the smallest detail. To correctly draw up a drawing, you will need to calculate all the parameters of the swing and the amount of material required. So, to make a family-type garden swing for a summer cottage, you will have to proceed from the following parameters:
- bench width for one person (from 0.4 to 0.6 m);
- seat height (0.5 m);
- distance from the seat to the crossbar (calculation is made individually);
- for suspended structures, the distance from the edge to the support post is determined as follows: 0.15–0.2 m when suspended on a chain of type 2–4 and 404;
Drawing of a garden swing - 0.25–0.3 m for other chain types of suspension;
- 0.35–0.4 m for ropes.
Attention! With strong swinging vibrations, the seat can move in different directions and touch the supports. This is traumatic and very dangerous. Therefore, take this point into account when drawing up the drawing.
Making a garden swing: step-by-step instructions
Making a garden swing yourself is an interesting and not as difficult process as it might seem. We present to your attention step by step instructions with a photo of making a wooden swing with an A-frame.
Choosing a location is the first and very important step. You cannot install a swing in a place you just like. You should choose a surface with a perfectly smooth topography. This will simplify the installation process. In addition, it is better to choose a place for installation away from prying eyes. Then it will bring peace and satisfaction.
Advice. There should be no obstructions in front or behind the swing. Such as trees, a fence or the wall of a house.
Selection of equipment and purchase of materials
For a wooden structure you will need timber good quality, without cracks and knots. Oak, birch, spruce or cedar are quite suitable. For the frame base you will need:
- cedar beam (10*10 cm) - 4 units. 3 each linear meters(for side supports);
- cedar beam (8*8 cm) - 1 unit. 2.5 linear meters (for making the crossbar);
- edged board (3*10*60 cm) - 1 unit. (for side screed).
For the bench you will also need:
- cedar timber (4.5*5.6 cm) - 12 linear meters;
- board for cladding (2.6*4.6 cm) - 18 linear meters;
- pillows - for decoration (if desired, you can make them yourself);
- suspension and fastening (chain, metal corners, hangers, bolts for furniture, various-sized screws).
Timber for building swings Regarding construction tools, then to make a garden swing, keep in your inventory the following necessary items:
- Bulgarian.
- Plane.
- Screwdriver.
- Level.
- Electric drill.
Well preparatory work completed, it’s time to start making a home-type swing.
Creating side posts
Advice. The base of the side pillars should be no less than 0.5 m wider than the seat.
- First you need to calculate the upper corner of the rack.
- Then you need to draw out the dimensions and work with a jigsaw.
- The next step is connecting the structural parts.
Side stands of swing - It is necessary to connect the upper parts of the beams, securing them with furniture bolts.
- Next, you should start working on the side ties. Externally, the racks should resemble the letter A. Therefore, you will need to mark the beams from the height of the soil.
- Then the screeds are marked. The parts are cut out and fixed using self-tapping screws and corners.
- Finally, 2 trapezoids of the same size, 0.1 m high, are cut out. They need to be attached to inside beams using corners.
Seat installation
To make a comfortable seat, you will need to make two frames with dimensions of 20 * 5 cm. And one more (back) - 20 * 6.5 cm.
- Their internal contour is fixed with stiffening posts.
- Then you need to connect the backrest and seat using corners and screws.
- Cover the seat with a special board.
Attention! Armrests can be installed if desired.
- After this, attach the suspension to the seat using eye bolts.
Installation of a swing
Almost all the work has been completed and there is very little time left before your site will be decorated with an eco-friendly and comfortable wooden swing.
- Install the supporting support onto the posts using self-tapping screws.
- Dig holes for the support posts.
Fastening - Pour crushed stone into the holes, install stands and fill everything with concrete.
- Adjust the inclination of the side posts using a level.
Attention! The angle of inclination of the side posts should be only 90 degrees. Pay attention to the depth. The supports should be dug to the same length.
- Secure the posts with rope ties. They should remain in this state until the concrete hardens completely.
- Before installing the garden swing wooden structure needs to be varnished.
Final stage
- Check the fixation of the cross beam.
Swing frame - Drill holes in the beam to attach the eye bolts.
- Install the seat.
- The swing is ready. Enjoy the fruits of your own labors!
Garden swing – great option relaxation at the dacha. It’s especially nice when they are made by hand. Making them will take a little time, but you can enjoy the result every day!
Garden swing design: video
Children can play for hours on the outdoor swings. The child is attracted by the feeling of flying. IN apartment buildings swings are installed on children's playgrounds, and caring parents install them in private areas.
The simple design makes it possible to make a hanging swing with your own hands. Moreover, children can be involved in the design, construction or decorating process.
Outdoor wooden swing - children's joy in flight
Making swings from wood is the most common practice. This is not surprising, because they have the following advantages:
- environmental friendliness;
- availability of lumber;
- relatively low cost;
- ease of working with wood;
- safety. Wood is a soft material, which reduces the risk of serious injury from a fall.
Thanks to the properties of wood, children's wooden swings can be found in almost any private yard or country house. In terms of mobility, they are divided into stationary and portable. Swings made of wood, unlike metal ones, are often made stationary, because the tree does not have enough weight for stable standing (the frame of a wooden swing requires reliable fastening).
Based on this feature, it is necessary to consider the installation location of the swing.
Where to put the swing?
When choosing a place you need to consider:
- viewability. The child should be visible whenever possible;
- remoteness. The economic zone and the nearby pond are not a place for games. If there are no other options for installation, you need to fence off the areas. Also make sure that the swing is placed at a safe distance from fences, walls with windows, trees, etc. flight obstacles. It is also not worth installing a swing near communications;
- illumination and shading. The installation location should be light, but create shade, especially in summer at midday;
- humidity. Outdoor swings made of wood will become unusable from excessive moisture, not to mention its harm to the child;
- absence of drafts;
- absence poisonous plants, allergens, honey plants, thorny bushes;
- surface topography at the installation site. The installation location of the swing needs to be leveled. Then there will be no need to vary the length of the support pillars, and nothing will interfere with the child’s enjoyment of his favorite pastime;
- quality of fastening of each swing unit.
How to make a wooden swing with your own hands - step by step instructions
To be sure of reliability, you need to build the swing yourself. Step by step guide for beginners it will allow you to indicate the right direction and construction plan.
Stage 1 - choosing the design of a children's swing made of wood
Children's wooden swings must be safe - this is an axiom! In many ways, their ability to stand stably is determined by the configuration of the support (frame). Before you start work, you need to decide which wooden swing frame will be optimal for installation. After all, its shape affects the safety of the structure and determines the place and method of its installation.
Types and types of frames for swings
U-shaped frame
It is considered the most economical model. Less lumber is used to make it. In addition, the supports do not interfere with the child’s movement and cannot cause injury due to negligence. However, for stability, the structure requires concreting of the supports, therefore it is stationary. The frame is ideal for installation on soft soil and making hanging sectional swings.
L-shaped frame
It is sometimes called an inverted "V" support. More stable compared to the previous version. This option allows you not only to hang a swing, but also to create a children's corner.
X-frame
It is a type of L-shaped, only the support beams are fastened not at their junction, but slightly lower, at a distance of 150-200 mm. A lintel is laid at the intersection of the vertical beams. This is an easier way to make a support. It should be noted that such a frame requires additional reinforcement in the form of a side support.
A-frame
The most reliable of all structures, due to the jumper that strengthens it. It is this frame that should be preferred if you plan to expand the swing by arranging stairs, installing a climbing rope and other elements of the playground.
Stage 2 – drawing of a wooden swing for children
Having a drawing or sketch of a swing helps determine the optimal dimensions of the structure, calculate the load, choose the right section of wood for manufacturing, determine the amount of material and parameters of the workpieces.
Drawings of a wooden swing must contain:
- frame configuration (shape);
- dimensions of a wooden swing. It should be noted that the dimensions of the swing are the height, as well as the perimeter of the base;
- presence and installation location of additional reinforcing elements (kerchiefs, spacers);
- number and type of seat (taking into account the age of the child);
- type and length of suspension (ropes, chains, cables, etc.);
You can make an additional drawing with a detailed breakdown and dimensions of the workpieces.
The dimensions of a wooden swing are determined based on:
- the age of the child - the length of the suspension, the size and configuration of the seat depend on it;
- height - determines the length of the suspension.
You can make a swing “for growth”, then:
- The optimal seat width is 600 mm.
- seat height above the ground – 500 – 550 mm. On the one hand, this will allow you to swing and stop the swing on your own, and on the other hand, it will not interfere with skating;
- height from seat to crossbar – 1,600 mm. To make it comfortable for the child to swing while standing;
- the total height of the swing from the ground to the crossbar is determined taking into account the thickness of the seat.
Advice. The seat and suspension must support the weight of the child. For reasons of practicality, it is better to make a safety margin of up to 100-120 kg (several children or a child and an adult).
Stage 3 – material for wooden swings
To make a wooden swing with your own hands, you need to choose the right wood. It is better to give preference to durable types of wood - oak, larch, or cheaper ones from spruce, pine, birch. The main thing is that the lumber is dry, of good quality, without falling knots, holes or other defects.
Depending on the type of frame you need to prepare:
- for a U-shaped frame - timber 80x80 or 100x50 - 2 pcs. For all other types of frame – 4 pcs.;
- for the crossbar - timber (log) of the same cross-section - 1 pc.;
- for sitting – boards 600x300x25 – 1 pc. To make a seat for children under 2 years of age, additional elements are thought out - a backrest, handles, fences;
- for suspension - a welded chain with an anti-corrosion coating or a strong rope (the one used by climbers is suitable). The length of the suspension is equal to two heights of the swing. On average – 4,500 mm – 1 piece;
- for fastening the frame - wood screws 80x4.5 - 40-50 pcs., as well as self-tapping screws 50x3.5 - 250 pcs.
- for attaching the suspension - carabiner, hanging hooks, steel corners. Quantity - depending on the method of fastening;
- for wood processing (protection) – primer;
- for decoration - paint or wood varnish.
- for concreting racks - cement, gravel and sand (for installation of a U-shaped frame).
Tools you will need: screwdriver, saw, plane, sander, level, drill, plumb line.
Stage 4 – making a homemade wooden swing for the dacha
We move from theory to the practical implementation of the project. Let's look at how to make a wooden hanging swing with your own hands.
Preparing a site for installing a swing
After choosing a location, you need to remove any remaining construction debris, remove thorny bushes and level the site.
Note. Some users recommend concreting the area for the swing, citing the fact that in the place where children push off from the ground, a hole appears in which water accumulates. Others believe that this is the least of the troubles. After all, the fall concrete base this is a serious risk.
Preparation of lumber
Outdoor hanging swings made of wood should be safe for children. Therefore, you need to sand each workpiece to prevent the appearance of splinters. And also cover everything wooden elements primer. You can prime a ready-made swing, but then there is a risk of destruction of the wood at the joints.
Installing a frame for a children's swing made of wood
As discussed above, there are several ways to construct a frame. Therefore, let’s look at the main nuances of installing each of them:
U-shaped frame. The arrangement begins with fastening the vertical posts and the upper lintel. Then you need to dig two recesses (the depth is 1/3 of the height of the support). Pour a crushed stone-sand cushion onto the bottom, install a stand, pour concrete, wait until the concrete hardens, and install a suspension with a seat.
Note. The lower part of the supports must be treated with any means that will prevent the wood from rotting. The most budget-friendly and reliable option would be to use used engine oil.
L and A-shaped swing frames are usually also assembled on the ground. Procedure: saw four supports at an angle for a more reliable connection. Then attach the top crossbar to the knot. In the case of an A-frame, a crossbar is added, which makes the structure more stable. Then the assembled frame is installed in the prepared place. For reliability, you can dig it into the soil (pre-treated with an anti-rotting primer) or secure the lower part of the supports to the ground using a long rod and bracket.
X-shaped frame for swings. This is done similarly to the previous one. Only the ends of the supports are not sawed off, but are fixed to each other. A jumper is placed in the formed upper corners.
Note. To prevent the installed X, L and A-shaped frames from sinking into the soil, users recommend concreting the areas under the base. This eliminates the possibility of the structure being distorted and maintains its mobility.
The weak point of the X, L and A-shaped frames is at the junction of the vertical supports and the lintel. To make this unit, long self-tapping screws are used, but, as the craftsmen note, it is advisable to use a nozzle of suitable size. The photo shows this element and its installation location.
Advice. When making a frame, you need to fasten the screws in this way: first drill a hole with a diameter slightly smaller than the diameter of the screw, and then assemble the blanks onto the screw. Some craftsmen recommend gluing the joints of the workpieces for reliability, while others recommend strengthening the knot by using metal plates or wooden spacers.
Swing seat arrangement
The manufacturing method and material of the swing seat are determined by the age of the child. Children are not picky about design; they will be quite happy with a seat made of a tire or a simple board. At the same time, you can count a dozen ways to make it.
Attaching the swing to the crossbar
A suspension (cable, rope or chain) is attached to the crossbar. A hanger is a swing unit for attaching a swing to a crossbar. The suspension bears the maximum load, which means it is subject to special safety requirements.
Note. The seat is installed only on chains or cables, and not on wooden or metal hangers. Garden swings are designed for adults and do not need adjustment, while country swings made of wood for children need to be adjusted as the child grows.
Attaching the swing suspension and seat can be done in several ways using different fasteners:
throw the rope over the crossbar and tie or fasten with a staple;
using metal plates that are attached to the crossbar at the top; 
using a carabiner. Material prepared for the website www.site
By screwing an anchor into the crossbar and attaching the suspension to it.
By enveloping the beam.
Stage 5 – decorative design of the swing
Decorating a wooden swing has a dual function. On the one hand, it protects the wood from exposure external factors. On the other hand, the original design of the swing forms a beautiful and bright element of the playground. The main rule is that paints and primers must be of high quality and safe, so as not to harm the child’s health.
As an additional decoration, you can install additional jumpers on the frame, which will strengthen it, and the children will have a staircase that will be of interest to those who are waiting in line to ride.
Caring for a wooden swing
Care involves checking:
- attachment points;
- suspension;
- seats;
- quality of paintwork.
- give the swing a load greater than that for which it is designed;
- avoid shock loads (sudden sitting on a seat);
- try to distribute the weight along the plane of the seat (do not tilt);
- roll perpendicular to the support. Hanging swings are designed for rolling along supports;
- adhere to a moderate swing amplitude to avoid tipping over an unsecured swing.
Conclusion
We test the reliability of the installation of the suspension and seat, and at the same time the strength of the entire structure. If nothing was deformed under the weight of an adult, then it will support a child. However, wooden swings for a summer house require periodic inspection of the main components and attachment points.