How to make a garden swing with your own hands: useful tips, step-by-step instructions and subtleties of work. Do-it-yourself garden swing made of wood for your dacha - everything you wanted to know! DIY tire swing step by step

For a dacha or private home no best 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 so popular ones. complex designs wooden swing for the cottage. 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 the landscape design and are 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 - you just need 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 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 metal swing, wooden ones 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?

Consider the fact that some species of coniferous trees can be subject to rot, 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 - the high price of 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 required 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

Summer swings for a dacha can be stationary - this means that when installing them, you assume that they will stand exclusively in one place (lays columnar foundation). Such a building is reliable and strong, it will last a long time. The disadvantage is obvious: moving the swing from its place will be problematic.

This swing is more mobile than the previous version. They are mounted on a pre-prepared support, and, basically, they are distinguished by both a high degree of transportation and the ability to fold, for example, for transportation to another vacation spot (not all wooden structures have this property).

Aesthetic appeal and ease of operation make this type of swing especially desirable for installation on the site. A significant disadvantage may be the insufficient strength of the proposed support - in other words, you must have a tree of the required size on your site. Most often, hanging swings with a wooden seat are installed for children - tree branches can support their weight without much difficulty.




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 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 is safety elements - a 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.

LarchPineSpruceOakBirchAspen
When compressed along the fibers64,5 48,5 44,5 57,5 55,0 42,5
When stretched along the fibers125,0 103,5 103,0 168,0 125,5
When growing across the fibers radially5,6 5,4 5,0 8,0 11,1 7,1
When growing across the fibers tangentially5,2 3,5 3,2 6,5 6,5 4,6
With static bending111,5 86,0 79,5 107,5 109,5 78,0
When folded along the fibers radially9,9 7,5 6,9 10,2 9,3 6,3
When folding along the fibers tangentially9,4 7,3 6,8 12,2 11,2 8,6

Wood is also chosen because of its texture - the pattern on the cut, which 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:

Important physical factor is also the shine of the 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 from wood with your own hands.

We should start with the fact that a single-seater swing for a garden made of wood is not designed for a large weight of the person sitting (up to 120 kg). Most often they are installed for small children. If you decide to install a baby 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 installation concrete base, therefore 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 an 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.

Disadvantages, alas, are also present: wood, as you know, is very sensitive to all kinds of insects, and protecting logs from pest invasion is somewhat more difficult than regular 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. On vertical racks make indentations 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.

  1. 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.
  2. Price. You don’t need to spend a lot of money on purchasing 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 supporting 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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 form an 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, using self-tapping screws, we fix the parts to the recesses.
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 paying attention to unusual designs homemade garden swing 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 hardwoods are somewhat easier to work with - although they are more reluctant to finish, 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 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:

  1. Drill a hole through using a drill;
  2. Insert the bolt with washer;
  3. Screw the ring nut onto the underside of the crossbar.

If you are attaching to a seat:

  1. Drill a hole for fastening;
  2. We thread the bolt and washer;
  3. 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.

NamePhotoPriceDescription

RUB 308,100Design 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 172,900The dimensions of this garden swing are 264x180x207 cm. Withstands a maximum load of 300 kg. Made from coniferous species wood, all materials are environmentally friendly.
Garden swing “Aristocrat”
RUB 106,799Dimensions 224x167x200 cm. Withstands 200 kg. Environmentally friendly luxury furniture, made of solid spruce. Additionally coated with antiseptics that protect against rotting.

RUB 95,401Dimensions: 250x155x245 cm. Withstands a maximum load of 200 kg. Made from natural coniferous wood, coated with acrylic varnish.
Outdoor swing Kampfer Talking
RUB 47,039Swing dimensions: 240x260x240 cm. Maximum permissible load 150 kg. The stands are made of cedar. The set includes an awning.
Swing Gloria
RUB 30,676Dimensions: 221x265.5x212.5 cm. Maximum permissible load 200 kg. Also treated with special impregnation and moisture.
Garden swing Avola
RUB 23,690Dimensions: 208x165x204 cm. Made of solid timber (pine). Oxford cloth awning. The swing is treated with compounds against moisture and drying out.

Separately, it is worth noting the division of structures according to the material of their manufacture. Garden swings made of metal are becoming increasingly popular, since despite the relative lightness of the swing, the durability of its service is ensured by the strength of the material. In addition, metal does not require special care.

There are also designs made of plastic. Their advantage is low price and ease of installation. However, this option can only be purchased to ensure children's rest preschool age, since the tensile strength of plastic is quite low.

The classic option is a garden swing made of wood. The tree fits perfectly into the decor of any garden plot. Depending on the complexity of the design and the high cost of the breed, the swing can be either the simplest or the premium class.

Features of self-construction of a swing

If the owner of a summer cottage, when visiting a store garden furniture he didn’t come across a sale on a swing, most likely, without a discount and the opportunity to buy this structure inexpensively, he will have a desire to build it himself. For such situations, it is important to know the algorithm of actions and the list of necessary tools.

Roughly speaking, the entire process of constructing a garden swing on a site can be divided into three main stages. These include:

  • Selection of model and location on the site
  • Purchase of components
  • Step-by-step construction of a swing with your own hands

Let us consider in detail the listed stages using the example of the process of constructing a swing-bench on an A-frame for the whole family.

Selecting a swing model and location on the site

The installation process will change depending on the choice of one or another type of garden swing. Therefore, before proceeding to the next steps, it is worth reading reviews about different models and types of construction, as well as study photos and drawings on the Internet in order to be able to assess your strengths.

After the choice of model has been made, it is important to think in advance and prepare the place where the structure will be placed. It is desirable that this be a site located in a recreation area, if there is one. The shade of trees, an open area free of thorny bushes, and the presence of flowers will only come in handy.

Purchase of components

To build a wooden swing bench in a garden plot, you will need an extensive list of tools. As a rule, when the owner of a site decides to independent work for the installation of the structure, he has most of the tools. The general list of necessary purchases will look like:

  • Bars with a diameter of 10-15 cm and a length of up to 3 m – 4 pcs.
  • Beam with a diameter of 8 cm.
  • Beam with a diameter of 4-5 cm.
  • Ten to fifteen boards (pine, birch, etc.) 10 cm x 2.5 cm x 250 cm.
  • One board of the same type 15 cm x 5 cm x 300 cm.
  • One hundred self-tapping screws 80 x 4.5.
  • A pack (200 pieces) of self-tapping screws 51x3.5.
  • Four eye bolts.
  • Two welded chains 0.5 cm thick and length along the height of the structure.
  • Two galvanized screws with rings 12x100.
  • Varnish or paint.
  • Saw.
  • Drill.
  • Screwdriver or screwdriver.
  • Shovel or hand drill.
  • Brushes.
  • Roulette, level.

Garden swing: step-by-step construction with your own hands

When the location of the garden swing has been selected and cleared, and everything necessary tools and materials have been purchased, you can begin the actual construction. First of all, the required number of parts is prepared. So, from boards with parameters 10 cm x 2.5 cm x 250 cm, planks one and a half meters long are sawn off for the future bench. For a seat half a meter wide, 5-6 boards will be enough, for a backrest 4-5.

A wide board 15 cm x 5 cm x 300 cm is sawn into 6 equal parts, which will serve as crossbars for fastening the boards of the back (3 pieces) and seat (3 pieces) of the bench. The transverse boards are connected to each other with self-tapping screws at an angle that should be at the bench (120°). Then, the boards of the bench itself are attached to the resulting base. To avoid damaging the wood, it is better to pre-drill holes for self-tapping screws with a drill.

Lastly, the armrests are installed, which are made from timber with a diameter of 4-5 cm and scraps from the board.

The width of the planned bench is 50 cm, and the length is 150 cm. If desired, these indicators can be changed in any direction, the main thing is to correctly calculate the load.

After making the bench, a frame for the swing is installed, the width of which, according to construction standards, must exceed the width of the bench by at least half a meter. Therefore, at a distance of a meter from each other, recesses are dug or drilled under the support beams on each side. The depth of the pits should be at least a meter, where 30% of the space will be occupied by a crushed stone base, and the remaining 70% by frame beams.

The beams are installed in the recesses and connected at an angle in the middle of the section. A crossbar is installed between pairs of beams. To secure the strength of the structure, corners are installed in the corners of the connection of the crossbar with the supports, and at a distance of 25 cm from the top and 30 cm from the bottom of the A-frame, screed with boards is carried out.

Once the frame is installed and adjusted using a spirit level, you can begin installing the bench. To do this, a chain is secured to the base of the armrest and the frame of the bench on both sides using eye bolts.

Before fastening to the bench, the chain sections are threaded into rings. Then, the entire structure is attached to the crossbar with galvanized screws.

The final stage of installing a garden swing on summer cottage is to check the strength of all connections and decorative design. If desired, you can build an awning on the top of the frame, which will protect vacationers from both the scorching summer sun and precipitation.

It is also worth paying attention to protecting wood from exposure external factors. Therefore, the entire structure must be treated with impregnation against insect pests, and then covered with varnish or paint intended for external work.

A properly installed garden swing will last for many years. And constructing them yourself will help save a significant amount of money.

An inexpensive structure that is attractive to children of all ages - a do-it-yourself tire swing. They will not leave young adults indifferent, and children will definitely be delighted. For children, it is no longer the appearance that is important, but the ability to take off and swing.

In addition to pleasure, swings bring considerable benefits - they develop and strengthen the vestibular apparatus. If a child gets motion sickness when riding in a vehicle, a tire rocker will serve as a simulator for him. By swinging on it just once a day, the child will overcome the fear of movement and heights, and as the vestibular system strengthens, weakness, nausea, and dizziness will go away.

They are usually installed on a playground in the courtyard of a residential building, in a country house, in a garden, or on the shore of a reservoir. They won't take up much space. Hanging swings are designed so that they can be removed and put away or moved to another suitable place. Rocking chairs and balancers are also mobile in most cases.

In addition, this construction is quite budget-friendly; every dad can make a swing out of a tire if he has the desire. Sounds convincing? In that case, let's get to work! First of all, you need to determine what type of swing you need.


A little imagination, favorite colors and colors - and old tire no longer trash, but an important part of decor or an artistic image....

Types of tire swings

    • ground in the form of a rocking beam;

Ground-based, in the form of a rocking-balance beam

    • suspended with tires located vertically or horizontally;

Hanging swing with tires

    • rocking cradles with seats made of tires (they are made in the form of figures of animals, birds, or simply arranged in the form of a cradle or chair).

Rocking cradles with seats made of tires

Rocking balancers

The balance beam is a “classic of the genre”; it is found on every playground. Two people sit at opposite ends of the board, alternately going up and down. To raise their side of the swing, the person sitting on it pushes off the ground with their feet, and the other one lands.

To make such a swing from tires with your own hands you will need:

  • durable, smoothly planed wooden boards;
  • strong stable support;
  • metal crossbar;
  • handles;
  • nails or screws;
  • bolts;
  • tools as needed;
  • old tires.

As a base, you can use two wheels from a car with tires, connected along the axis by an iron crossbar. A board is attached to the center of the crossbar. Both children and adults will love to swing on such a swing. Its undoubted advantage is mobility. It will not be difficult to roll it to the desired place in the yard or garden.

Another option: take a large tire from a tractor or a large machine. It is sawn crosswise and the semicircle is used as a support. Two boards are attached to it: one, equal in length to the diameter of the tire, should fit tightly into it top part. It is inserted into place and secured to the tire with nails or screws. The second, longer and wider, is placed on top and fastened to the first. For the safety of children and convenience, handles are attached to the board. You can use metal door handles - staples. Holes are drilled at the bottom of the tire to drain water.

A swing made from two halves of a tire is more stable and safe. The semicircles are fastened together with bolts, and the seat - a long board - is fitted. External design - coloring, drawings - is a matter of imagination and creativity of the parents.

A small balancer using the same scheme can be made as an indoor version. This swing will be made from a tire from a car. The top board is made no longer than the diameter of the tire and swings on it left - right, sideways. Armrests or handles are attached to the edges of the board so that the baby has something to hold on to.

You can sit astride the balance beam and swing back and forth. If dad's creative imagination extends a little further, instead of handles, you can attach the head and tail of a horse or other animal carved from wood. Young children delight in such rocking chairs.

Hanging swing

The main difficulty in constructing them is finding or installing a suitable crossbar for hanging them. A horizontally growing thick tree branch, a horizontal bar not used for its intended purpose, or a specially built structure will do. The seat is a tire. For this purpose you will need:

  • tire without damage;
  • chain or strong rope;
  • fastenings (load bolts, hooks);
  • tools as needed.

Construction

Making a simple swing from tires requires a minimum of time and effort. The tire is tied with a rope or chain and hung vertically. It’s good to drill a few holes around the circle so that it flows out. rainwater. They swing on such a swing, putting their legs through the wheel or sitting on top and holding the chain with their hands. Such a structure is often hung near a pond, and children, swinging while standing on it or holding the lower edge with their hands, jump into the water. Although this “bungee” is not very comfortable, the boys are delighted with it, because each of them can be a real Tarzan for a minute.

For a yard or summer cottage, make a swing with a horizontal seat. A metal chain or strong rope is attached to the tire. To do this, you need to make fastenings from cargo bolts. For bolts with a ring instead of a head, 3 or 4 holes are drilled in the tire at an equal distance from each other. The bolts are secured and inserted into their rings with S-shaped hooks, which are threaded into the lower links of the chain and clamped tightly with pliers. Two people can swing on this swing. For convenience, you can attach a board to the seat.

Another option for a tire swing is a rocking cradle. Using a cutting tool (a shoe knife, for example), the tread is cut to the metal cord ring, leaving some of the rubber under the seat. A chain or rope is attached to the resulting circles on top and the cradle is hung on the crossbar. Even babies can be rocked in this rocking chair.

If dad has time and knows how to use a grinder, you can cut out various figures from rubber. Templates and photos are easy to find on the Internet. The cut out figures are bent and fastened with pins to obtain the desired animal or bird shapes. Parents' imagination is limitless, children enjoy and benefit from it.

Safety

When starting to build a swing, you should think about how to make such a swing safe. The tire is thoroughly washed with detergent. When installing, observe basic rules security. When attaching the swing to the S-shaped hooks, tighten them (the hooks) well and make sure that clothing cannot be caught on them later.

In the “fall zone,” which extends 180 cm in all directions from the hanging swing, there should be no fences, stones or other similar objects so that the child does not get injured if he suddenly falls. When making figured rockers, you need to make sure that there are no holes where the child’s head could get stuck (holes from 9 to 23 cm are considered as such). Paints should be chosen that are safe for children.

In terms of safety, tire swings are more harmless than metal or even wooden ones. If it falls, the swinging part may hit the child on the head. Rubber in this case is safer than wood and metal. Children's clothes or laces will not get caught on the tire. There are no sharp burrs or chips on them.

Although they still remain leaders in popularity. And if the wood is properly processed, then they are also quite safe for children.

If you firmly believe that the list of tire swings is limited to inconvenient vertically or horizontally suspended tires, then you are VERY mistaken. Variations of ground and hanging swing so numerous that they boggle the imagination. It is usually a one-piece wheel with strategically cut, folded and/or riveted pieces. And also with additional decorations, of course. Creative thought makes all kinds of animals out of car tires, miniature vehicles (from airplanes to motorcycles) and even swing chairs. And you can recreate almost all of them with your own hands without any special skills or talents. Let's look:

A swing for children from 5 years old, when all that is left of the tire is a thin inner rim (wide on the right, cut with fringe for beauty) and a piece of rubber at the bottom as a seat. The simplest advanced model. Of course, before creating a swing for children, the tires must be thoroughly cleaned and treated. If the harmlessness of rubber still worries you even after this, you can always additionally wrap or cover such a swing with fabric, soft self-adhesive film, etc.

Almost the same option, but safer - with a backrest. And the back may be different:

For the little ones, the most convenient and reliable variation is with a kick and with a crossbar in front:

If the wheel is larger, you can make a swing with a back for older children. And this is how this craft will look if you decide to color it brightly and beautifully:

And here is a whole cradle plus additional design for beauty:

This line is completed by a luxurious swing-chair for an adult, although not a heavy-set person. They are made from a wheel for a truck or tractor.

Also still a simple swing, but with a slight twist: the wheel is cut off at the back and cut off at the top, and also bent back...

...and the cut off side of the wheel is bent, and the same sidewall from the second wheel is mounted on top and across it with rivets.

Before we move on to the most creative, beautiful and complex models, let’s look at a few ground swings. Classic for two with a crossbar on a lever base in the middle. As practice shows, if an adult does not decide to swing on them, no additional strengthening of the half of the wheel from below is required - it will already withstand the weight. Typically, such swings are equipped with handles closer to the center, and can be supplemented with soft seats for greater comfort.

These are rocking benches on which you are supposed to sit as usual and swing sideways from side to side.

And these are improved models, when an analogue of a rocking horse is made from half a car tire:

Finally, there is a wheel on a huge spring, but this is already an attraction for brave young extreme boys, as injuries are possible. Knee pads, elbow pads and helmet are recommended when using.

Hanging bench swing made of tires - for the whole family: a classic of the genre when wooden boards mounted between the tires, and the latter serve as armrests.

Well, now what we’ve all been waiting for: real masterpiece swings made from tires. Production of similar swings in the form of animals and various items Recently it has become a real business abroad, and people shell out a lot of money for such toys for their children.

The main sources, among others, are the same as in previous articles on landscape design and flowerpots, ponds and tire sandboxes.

DIY garden swing at the dacha can be made from scrap materials using photo or diagrams from the Internet. Construction will require time and skills from the master, but the result will delight children, family and guests. In addition, a ready-made factory swing will cost three times more. When starting to choose a model for a future design, listen to the wishes of your household and involve them in the creation process.

Where to start?

Builders advise starting the construction of a structure by choosing its location. At the dacha, it is installed in a resting place, so that it does not interfere and has enough space for swinging. In the case where there is little space for installation on a summer cottage, landscaping is considered street area. If you plan to install a stationary structure, then for installation you will need concrete foundation. If the rocking chair is portable, you will need reliable fasteners. They use pins that are driven into the ground and the legs are attached to them. Mobile swings can be mounted on hanging hooks, in which case they can be easily transported from home to garden by securing them to a suitable support.

How to determine the size?

Its size depends on the category for which the structure is intended. Depending on your preferences and family conditions, the swing may be for adults. They are made in the form of a comfortable bench or rocking sofa, equipped with a canopy, and decorated with soft pillows. The older generation guests swayed slightly in comfortable sofa They will be happy to have a conversation over a cup of tea.

Children's swings are made small and reinforced with straps, providing for a large swing amplitude. In this option, the main thing is safety. Therefore, during construction, sharp corners are removed and the surface is made as smooth as possible. For children's model important element is the color scheme and seating comfort. It is painted in different colors, involving the child in this activity.

The structure for the whole family is large in size. It is designed for mom, baby and dad to ride at the same time. Its weight is calculated at 250 kg and above. The supports are made solid, dug into the ground and filled with concrete. The structure is intended for year-round use, so it is painted, equipped with a roof and not decorated with textile elements. Small pillows or blankets are laid down immediately before use.

Just a note. The canopy not only protects riders from rain or scorching sun, but also protects the structure from fading and corrosion.

Common types of country swings

You can adapt materials for skating that have already been used, but are still quite durable. For example, a car tire, construction pallets, canvas fabric, old skateboard or wooden box. They buy chains and fasteners, carabiners or hooks and hang them in the garden on a strong branch. Using building and available materials, the following types of swings are made:

Singles consist of a seat and suspensions that are attached to a support. Their weight and size are designed for children.

Hammocks belong to portable types. They are a comfortable hammock that can be hung with one or two hangers from any crossbar. It is in the spirit of those who like to read on fresh air. For production, strong fabrics and durable ropes, as well as carabiners, are selected. The durable hammock can support the weight of an adult man.

Sun loungers- These are frame models, shaped like a lounger floating in the air. Used as supports metal frame. This model is complex in execution; it is easier to buy it in a store and assemble it on site.

Hanging come in different modifications, widths and lengths. General feature- This is a seat with chains attached to the side.

Advice. For homemade country swing It is not necessary to build strong supports. Most often they are hung on a suitable branch garden tree. But it is safer to install poles with a fixed crossbar.

Step-by-step instructions for creating a hanging wooden model

To make a swing for a large company, use the design diagram in the form of a hanging bench with a backrest. The main material is high-quality inexpensive wood. To create the model, boards and beams are purchased from a hardware store; they also buy bolts, hooks and chains for attaching the bench to the support. The master selects the dimensions at his discretion, choosing a comfortable backrest height, seat width, and bench length.

Required Tools

A standard set of woodworking tools will be useful for the job:

  • jigsaw and circular saw for sawing boards;
  • drill for preparing holes at the joints of parts;
  • screwdriver for tightening fasteners;
  • plane and grinder to remove uneven surfaces of wood;
  • marker (a slate pencil will do);
  • construction corner or long ruler;
  • building level for level installation of supports.

Basic materials

Main building material- soft but durable wood. For example, spruce or pine. Birch lumber has excellent quality characteristics; it is durable and inexpensive. For construction you will need 15 beams 2.5 m long (25 mm by 100 mm), 1 crossbar 2.5 m long (50 mm by 150 mm), glued slats 1.5 - 2 m long.

Additional materials:

  • Galvanized screws (with rings for fastenings) 2 pairs;
  • Wood screws No. 3.5 and No. 5 – 200 pcs;
  • Chain from 5 m (length selected according to the dimensions of the structure)
  • Fastening carabiners – 6 pcs;
  • Varnish, wax, stain for applying a protective layer 3 l;
  • Flat brushes for painting – 2 pcs.

Sequence of actions

First, make a bench for sitting. Having determined its length (from one and a half meters), boards are prepared the right size and drill holes in them for fastenings. According to the diagram, the frame is assembled and the slats are attached to it, equipping the back and seat. If you have sufficient carpentry skills, make a seat with a shaped back by cutting out the parts according to a template. Armrests are attached to the finished seat (one side to the back, the other to the seat). All parts are cut exactly to size, given a shaped shape and polished. The finished rocking chair is varnished in several layers, allowing each layer to dry. Then screws with rings are attached to the lower side of the armrest on the left and right and chains with carabiners at the ends are inserted into them. A cozy bench for friends is ready. It is hung from a strong tree and rolled around.

Instructions for creating a metal model

The metal construction is durable and reliable. To create it, you will need special skills in welding, cutting metal, and mixing concrete. Metal model has a long service life, meets safety requirements and can withstand weights of up to 250 kg. In order to assemble it you will need the following materials:

  • hollow metal pipe with a diameter of 50 m and a total length of 12.5 m;
  • rod reinforcement with a diameter of 18 mm and a length of 8 m;
  • pine board 5 m (50 mm by 20 mm);
  • metal screws, bolts, nuts,
  • concrete (water, cement, sand and crushed stone);
  • enamel paint 3 l and flat brushes.

To cut, weld and strengthen pipes you will need the following tools:

  • Bulgarian;
  • file and sandpaper;
  • welding machine;
  • bath for mixing concrete mixture;
  • shovel and bayonet.

Procedure

Metal swings are made stationary. Therefore, a place for them is carefully selected. Having cut the pipes for support according to the selected drawing (for example, side posts and a crossbar of 2 m each and pipes for the base of a suitable size), they are welded and the joints are ground.

The finished structure is dug into the ground at least 70 cm. To do this, dig 4 holes, place the swing legs there and fill them with concrete. To make it, mix cement and sand one to two, adding one part of crushed stone. Having stirred the mixture well, pour water into it and knead the mixture to the thickness of sour cream. Pouring the homogeneous mixture into the pits, it is allowed to harden for 7 days. When the support becomes stable, hooks are welded to the crossbar to which the seat will be attached. It is assembled from reinforcement. Weld a frame for a base of convenient sizes, attaching two handrails to it. Their ends are bent into the shape of rings and hung on hooks at the top of the beam. For seating, prepare boards according to the size of the base and attach them with self-tapping screws.

Note: the edges of the boards must be free of knots and torn edges. They are sanded and coated with a protective layer of varnish or paint.

Conclusion

When installing a swing at a summer cottage, a convenient and safe place is selected for it. There should be no trash nearby, broken glass wire sticking out of the ground. The structure itself and the area under it are made comfortable for riding, and take into account the possibility of falling. That is, if a child jumps carelessly, he will rest his feet on the green lawn or sand, and not on concrete screed. The safety of the child comes first and decorative look facilities and its sports and gaming area on the second. If you have free space at your summer cottage for play or sports equipment, install it next to the swing. It is also made by hand and painted in bright colors.

Swings for adults are equipped with an approach path and a equipped area. Often a barbecue is placed next to them for a pleasant time with friends. In this case, consider lighting the site in the evening.

48 photos of garden swing ideas: