Build your own wood sling chairs, also known as deck chairs or wood beach chairs, in a child size. Featuring removable slings for easy washing, simple styling, and easy instructions, this foldable wood beach chair is affordable and cute, perfect for a perfect day at the beach.

Folding Deck, Beach or Sling Chairs, Child Size

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Handmade from this plan >>

Projects built from this plan. Thank you for submitting brag posts, it's appreciated by all!

Handmade by: jamie_C
Handmade by: catballou24
Handmade by: melaniesue

About Project

Author Notes:

We've been on the beach this week, and my daughter has been enjoying her very own beach chair, also called a deck chair, sling chair, and if you were to ask me, the most simple chair ever.

I started working on this chair a few weeks ago. For a child's chair, I wanted to build something as simple and easy to use as possible, but sturdy and cute at the same time.

As it turns out, it takes a lot of time to make something this simple. In fact, I spent three days thinking about this chair, building prototype after prototype, sitting in it, having Grandma sew sling after sling . . . and finally, I believe that we have created the best child's sling chair or deck chair possible. And this is why:

Cheap to build. A couple dollars in lumber, a yard of fabric, two bolts, six washers. A three foot long dowel. Each chair in totally should run you under $10. Build four, and you've saved $200 from Pottery Barn Kid's Sling chairs..

Fast. You won't believe how easy to build these chairs are! We built all four in about an hour. Grace's Grandma sewed the slings, and she estimates each sling to take about twenty minutes to sew.

Simple. I spent hours and hours trying to create a means for these chairs to open simply, without latches or catches or other things that might discourage a toddler from using the chair. This chair simply folds open, and that's it. When your done, it folds flat.

Removable slings. Beach chair + Kids = must have easy to remove slings. With this chair, we used dowels so that keeping the fabric fresh and clean is fun and easy to do. Just remove the dowels, and the slings are free to wash or change!

The Ram sat in it. And Grace climbed on top. I'm not putting the weight limit at 250 pounds, but the little chair did hold up to it!

Dimensions

Dimensions:

Materials and Tools

Shopping List:

2 - 1/4" bolts, 2" long
2 - 1/4" nuts
6 - washers for bolts
1 - 36" long 1/2" dowel
2 - 1x2s, 8 feet long
1 yard outdoor fabric
thread and sewing notions

2 inch screws

2 inch finish nails

wood glue

wood filler

120 grit sandpaper

primer

wood conditioner

paint

paint brush

Tools:

measuring tape

square

pencil

safety glasses

hearing protection

Kreg Jig™

drill

circular saw

nailer

sander

countersink drill bit

Cut List

Cut List:

Back Frame
2 - 1x2 @ 32"
1 - 1x2 @ 19"
2 - 1x2 @ 17 1/2"

Seat Frame
3 - 1x2 @ 15 3/4"
2 - 1x2 @ 22 1/2"

Sling
1 - 1/2" Dowel @ 15 3/4"
1 - 1/2" Dowel @ 17 1/2"
2 - Outdoor Fabric @ 17" x 34"
For light colored fabrics, consider lining the sling with Muslim cut to the same size.

General Instructions

Please read through the entire plan and all comments before beginning this project. It is also advisable to review the Getting Started Section. Take all necessary precautions to build safely and smartly. Work on a clean level surface, free of imperfections or debris. Always use straight boards. Check for square after each step. Always predrill holes before attaching with screws. Use glue with finish nails for a stronger hold. Wipe excess glue off bare wood for stained projects, as dried glue will not take stain. Be safe, have fun, and ask for help if you need it. Good luck!

Step 1

Backrest Frame. Build the backrest frame as shown above. We used glue and 2" finish nails to assemble, but you can also use the Kreg Jig, or countersunk screws. I found pocket hole screws on the tops slats was a little much for the wood and caused the wood to split, so we went the nails route. Just don't forget the glue.

Use a 1/4" drill bit to drill holes.

Step 2

Now build the second frame as shown above. Drill holes as shown with a 1/4" drill bit.

Step 3

Line the smaller sling up with the larger, as shown above, so holes are aligned. Slide bolt through, with a washer on each end of the bolt, and one in between the two wood frames (to protect your paint job). Tighten washers.

Step 4

And let'er fold open!

Now it's time to do a little bit of sewing.

Step 5

Special thanks to Grace's Grandma for sewing these slings :)

Cut fabric into two squares, 16 1/2" x 34".

With right sides together, and using a 1/4” seam, stitch around entire rectangle, leaving a 5” opening on one long side.

Clip corners and turn project inside out.

Slip stitch opening closed.

Finger press or iron project so edges are fully expanded and no edges are tucked inside.

Step 6

Using a larger stitch length, topstitch edges along both (long) sides only. A decorative stitch is optional. Finish edges by tucking thread into project.

Step 7

Fold bottom and top over 1 1/2” to create “sleeves.”

Topstitch using same seam allowance as on the sides.

Finish edges by tucking thread into project.

Step 8

Weave sling into chair and insert dowels into sleeves.

Step 9

One more photo so you can see how the sling attaches.

Step 10

Enjoy your day at the beach.

Step 11

And for those of you with a Kreg Jig :)

Finishing Instructions

Preparation Instructions:

Fill all holes with wood filler and let dry. Apply additional coats of wood filler as needed. When wood filler is completely dry, sand the project in the direction of the wood grain with 120 grit sandpaper. Vacuum sanded project to remove sanding residue. Remove all sanding residue on work surfaces as well. Wipe project clean with damp cloth. It is always recommended to apply a test coat on a hidden area or scrap piece to ensure color evenness and adhesion. Use primer or wood conditioner as needed.

May I Suggest a Finish?

Minwax Oil Based Stain on Birch

Painting White Outdoor Adirondack Projects

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What's going on up here in Alaska.

Love it! I do believe these

Love it! I do believe these will be my new go-to birthday gift! I have an embroidery machine so I can even personalize the sling with the birthday child's name. Great gift idea - thank you so much!

posted by Heather - Hopelessly Flawed (not verified) | on Fri, 2011-05-20 15:47

Adult Size?

This is great. I'd like to build an adult sized one. Any chance you have an update to this? I'd assume a couple more inches to each board and equal amounts to the fabric (although fabric strength might be more of an issue based on weight).

posted by Guest (not verified) | on Fri, 2011-05-20 16:21

clips

maui

glad to see your getting some beach time in. if you need anything email me:)

posted by jojabis | on Fri, 2011-05-20 16:29

Wow

LOVE THESE! We live in FL and are by the water often. I so want to make this for my 2 year old! Are you doing plans for an adult one?? I love that they close up flat too! Perfect to pack on our boat! Thanks!

posted by Katie Brownlee (not verified) | on Sat, 2011-05-21 09:47

Fabric

Does anyone know where you can find inexpensive outdoor fabric. Outdoor fabric can run upwards of $15.00 or more and if you want to do 2 different patterns on either side were talking $30 or more on 1 chair.

posted by momof8 | on Sat, 2011-05-21 10:30

Outdoor fabrics

Fabric.com and there is always a coupon online somewhere for at least 10% off. The other option if you are only doing one chair, find an awning shop that would let you piece of their excess.

Hope that helps!

posted by Andrea Cash (not verified) | on Sat, 2011-05-21 12:17

Have you tried Tonic Living? They have some lovely ones for about $11 - not a huge savings, I know, but it does add up...

posted by Guest (not verified) | on Sat, 2011-05-21 13:45

Cheap Fabric

Joann's is having a 50% off sale of their fabric right now. I was able to find some great outdoor fabric on clearance for $6/yard... plus 50% off, so only $3/yard! I felt like I won the lottery. I bought extra thinking they would make nice outdoor pillows.

posted by Guest (not verified) | on Sat, 2011-05-28 20:28

Joanns has 50 percent off

Joanns has 50 percent off sales. Actually one yard of 54 inch wide fabric will give you three pieces.

posted by Ana White | on Sat, 2011-05-21 13:01

Already starting this....

Already bought the supplies to build this! I'll probably get started on it tonight. Thanks for posting!

posted by jamie_C | on Tue, 2011-05-24 09:46

Just Finished Two!

These chairs were so easy to make. And so dang cute!
I blogged about mine here- http://amykayparnell.wordpress.com/2011/05/25/kids-sling-chair

Thanks Ana for these amazing plans and all your hard work!

posted by Amy Parnell (not verified) | on Wed, 2011-05-25 19:58

Adult Version

Would love to make some for my teens. Do you have a larger version?

posted by maya scape | on Thu, 2011-05-26 14:25

These are fantastic! Has

These are fantastic! Has anyone tried using terrycloth towels for the fabric? I'd imagine it would be good for the beach and washable.

posted by LisaT (not verified) | on Thu, 2011-05-26 18:47

these are great!

I think i may make some for the 4th of July when we go watch fireworks...

This would also be a great way to make a hamper that folds up that you could change the bags OUTPATIENT with your bedroom decor.. I think we need some plans for this too.. :P

posted by Michelle Minor (not verified) | on Thu, 2011-05-26 19:03

Lovin this!! Will you post an

Lovin this!! Will you post an adult version of this? I need these !!!!

posted by Guest (not verified) | on Fri, 2011-05-27 14:56

Shopping List

Thank you, Ana! Love this and plan on making about half a dozen in the next few days! My sister and I love to make things together so she will do the sewing and I will do the frames.
I made one of these today - I bought two 1x2x8's but it was not quite enough. I came up about a foot short. I had some scrap to finish it out, but if you are shopping specifically for this, it will take slightly more than two 8' boards. Or three 1x2x6 would work out just about right.

posted by Dolores (not verified) | on Fri, 2011-05-27 19:57

Love them!

I just bought all the supplies tonight to build them! JoAnn's Fabric had 3 different patterns of 54 inch outdoor fabric on clearance for $6 a yard, then it was an additional 50% off and I had a 10% off coupon! Ended up being $2.70 a yard. Gotta love that! I'm making 3 and I've spent just under $20! Plus, I will have fabric left over. Thanks Ana for another great plan!

posted by kdgal | on Fri, 2011-05-27 23:16

Adult sized chair

I'm adding my voice for an adult sized chair!

posted by Guest (not verified) | on Sat, 2011-05-28 15:35

Me too! I'm ready to go to

Me too! I'm ready to go to home depot to get supplies as soon as an adult version is created!

posted by Guest (not verified) | on Sat, 2011-05-28 18:33

I don't know if I am missing

I don't know if I am missing something, but I built the chair and have the fabric on with the doll rods and the chair will not stay up. When I open it up it just falls all the way back laying flat. Any help would be great!!

posted by Guest (not verified) | on Sun, 2011-05-29 09:47

Hope you got this one figured

Hope you got this one figured out - you may be opening the chair in the wrong direction? Should just flip open and stay open at just the right spot :) Good luck! Ana

posted by Ana White | on Sun, 2011-05-29 17:19

Guest - Just go over the

Guest - Just go over the plans step by step and make sure everything is measured and positioned right. I had a similar problem - when I opened my chair up it went almost flat. After checking step by step I found that I had positioned the bottom piece on the first frame 1.5" too low. After moving it all worked perfectly.

posted by Dolores (not verified) | on Sun, 2011-05-29 16:19

Try this

Here's something I'm finding helpful... Before you start assembling things, cut a bunch of spacers - 3/8" thick slices of any size scrap board. Then put spacers under the cross-pieces when you're assembling, to raise them up just enough so that they're centered against the side pieces. It also makes it quick & easy to keep the top parallel pieces straight and evenly spaced.

posted by lgertler | on Mon, 2011-05-30 02:48

fabric

Just a note- It's muslin fabric, not Muslim fabric if you want an extra lining. This is an awesome plan! Thanks!

posted by Guest (not verified) | on Mon, 2011-05-30 17:40

Could money be saved by not making the fabric reversible, or is a double layer of fabric needed for the strength of the seat portion?

posted by Guest (not verified) | on Mon, 2011-05-30 19:08

Thank You!

Love this - my husband is out making mine now. He'll do the woodwork, I'll do the sewing. I will say that the measurements are off for the amount of wood we needed -- if you add up all the cuts you get 118 inches for the back and 92 1/4 for the seat (total of 210 1/4 inches and 2 8 foot long pieces is only 192 inches total.) So unless we are reading this wrong, it would be better to get the 3 1x2x6 pieces (like another commenter said.) Nonetheless, I am excited about getting these made. Don't know where everyone else is getting their wood or if its because my husband wanted to buy better wood pieces, but it will cost us more than $10, but still much less than PB. :) Plus I think they'll be cuter, my girls can pick their own fabric and I can embroider their names -- they'll have the cutest chairs on the beach. Thanks!!

posted by Guest (not verified) | on Wed, 2011-06-01 22:01

Shouldn't it be a little longer at the top?

Isn't that board at the top hitting her in the head? Should her head not be resting on the fabric like the rest of her body? Would it tip over if I made the top longer?

posted by susyb1027 | on Sat, 2011-06-04 14:35

Hi Susy, this chair is

Hi Susy, this chair is similar in dimensions to the Pottery Barn Kids Sling Chair. You can make yours longer - this one is really intended for preschoolers and toddlers. But the design would be so easy to modify! Good luck! Ana

posted by Ana White | on Sat, 2011-06-04 14:50

longer fabric?

I was thinking about making it slightly larger for my daughter too. Would I need to get more fabric then too? For example, if I made it two inches longer would I need 2 more inches of fabric?

posted by RyansMama (not verified) | on Wed, 2011-07-13 20:13

a canopy would be nice

It would be nice if you could add a little canopy over this chair to provide some shade for the napping little toddlers. I don't even know if this is possible, but just an idea.

posted by Guest (not verified) | on Tue, 2011-06-14 10:10

I have created an Adult Version!!!

Hi I am in college and I created an adult version that leans back a little further if anyone is interested! I customized it by sealing in sharks teeth with silicon on the outside and pine stained the wood. I also hand stitched the fabric all as a gift for someone.

Ill post a photo if anyone is interested

posted by ECsoccer20 (not verified) | on Tue, 2011-08-30 17:29

Post it in the Brag Blog

You should instead post pictures in the Brag Blog. You have my interest, already have a question how comfy is it? and can you get out of it fairly easy or do you have to twist your body to get out? lol

posted by luis cano | on Tue, 2011-08-30 18:56

Adult Sling/Deck Chair

Hi,

I would appreciate a copy of your adult chair as well as any other details like a cutting list.

Thanks,

Alan Vincent
Pretoria South Africa

posted by Alan Vincent (not verified) | on Sun, 2012-02-05 08:13

posted by SornStoopay (not verified) | on Sun, 2012-02-26 11:21

Love them

Made a few for my kids and blogged about it here. :)

http://paintedtherapy.blogspot.com/2012/07/folding-beach-sling-chairs.html

posted by debandtom25 | on Sat, 2012-07-21 13:37

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Getting Started

Plan Catalog

Other Stuff >>

Folding Deck, Beach or Sling Chairs, Child Size

Additional Photos

Handmade from this plan >>

About Project

Dimensions

Materials and Tools

Cut List

General Instructions

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

Step 5

Step 6

Step 7

Step 8

Step 9

Step 10

Step 11

Finishing Instructions

May I Suggest a Finish?

Chairs, Toys, Outdoor, Ana's Adirondack Collection, Kids and Toys, Outdoor, Starter Projects, Under $20, Children's

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