Free simple easy to build do it yourself plans to build a DIY porch swing or bench. Features extra wide and deep seat, ideal for napping or lounging, perfect for standard cushions. Plans call for off the shelf dimensional lumber, mostly 2x4s, and standard screw joints. Painted a pretty blue turquoise color, this porch swing is a breeze to build!
With summer now in full swing, I knew we needed a swing plan. Over the last few weeks, I've been doing quite a bit of research, and there are many swing plans available online for free.
Source: southernliving.com via Ana on Pinterest
But I really liked this swing from my Pinterest Board, from Southern Living magazine. And I really suspected that under neath all those beautiful pillows, without the beautiful windows and decorations . . . there is a super simple porch swing, made much like this . . .
Preparation
6 - 1x6 @ 6 feet long
5 - 2x4 @ 8 feet long
4 - Eye Bolts with Nuts, 3" long
Chains or rope, we used 200 pound weight limit (for four ropes, capacity of 800 pounds)
Hardware to hang to rafters/tree
5 - 2x4 @ 21" (Support Joists)
2 - 2x4 @ 72" (Front/Back Aprons)
2 - 2x4 @ 11 1/4" (Arm Fronts)
2 - 2x4 @ 25 1/2" (Arm Rests)
5 - 2x4 @ 18 1/4" (Back Supports)
6 - 1x6 @ 72" (slats)
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!
Instructions
Step 1
Build the seat frame as shown above, using either pocket holes set for 1 1/2" stock and 2 1/2" screws, or wood glue and 2 1/2" screws predrilled and countersunk.
Step 2
To the back of the seat frame, attach the back supports, 2 1/2" screws and wood glue.
Step 3
Now the arm rest supports - same thing, 2 1/2" screws and wood glue.
Step 4
Armrests go on top - check and adjust for square.
Step 5
Step 6
And finally the seat slats - start at the front, leave 1/2" gaps, and nail and glue down with 2" finish nails.
Step 7
Now it's time to hang it! We hung ours on an existing playground swing set, but your situation may likely vary from mine. Here is a good article on proper hanging of swings.
On this swing, you will want to hang from the side aprons of the seat frame - that's where the majority of your weight will be. Also, I hung ours at a very slight (approximately 5 degree) back angle, to increase the comfort level.
DISCLAIMER: Build, hang and use at your own risk - We are not liable for personal injury, loss or death from use of swing. See our full disclaimer at bottom of all pages.
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.
We apologize if there was an error in this plan. Please help us out and report any errors here.
Comments
Cypress Moon P… (not verified)
Fri, 03/09/2012 - 14:30
Porch Swings!
Thank you for your "how to build a porch swing" article. We build Porch Swings and I thought some of your readers might like to check them out. We've been making them for over 25 years. Thank you and hope everyone has a wonderful day!
Cypress Moon P… (not verified)
Fri, 03/09/2012 - 14:33
Porch Swings!
Thank you for your "how to build a porch swing" article. We build Porch Swings and I thought some of your readers might like to check them out. We've been making them for over 25 years. Thank you and hope everyone has a wonderful day!
http://www.CypressMoonPorchSwings.com/
Cindy McCoy (not verified)
Sat, 04/07/2012 - 20:39
Want to make the back taller...
I love the design for this swing! Instead of having two rows for the back I want to do 4. Would I just make the support boards longer? Thanks.
In reply to Want to make the back taller... by Cindy McCoy (not verified)
claydowling
Sat, 04/07/2012 - 21:21
Pics!
That should work. But we definitely need pics of something like that. No good place for a porch swing on my property, but I wish I had one.
Mary M (not verified)
Sun, 04/29/2012 - 12:18
Love all things porches
Ana, so happy to have found your site. This is a sweet porch swing you show here. Thank you so much!
My hubby and I love all things about porches - and you have to have a nice porch swing on a porch! I remember swinging with my Grandma when I was a little girl. She had a large porch on an old-fashioned two story home.
Here are some more pictures of porch swings: http://www.front-porch-ideas-and-more.com/porch-swings.html that your readers may enjoy. But, there's nothing like making one yourself. I am excited to dig deeper into your site. Thank you!
Anna Claes (not verified)
Sat, 06/16/2012 - 17:18
Cushion??
I have looked and looked for a 72-inch cushion for this swing, and can't find one! Can you or anyone else advise me on where to get one? Thanks so much!
Jeni c (not verified)
Wed, 08/01/2012 - 10:46
Wider?
I loooove this so much! I just had a new super porch at our hunting lodge (10x30) built and i had them reenforce the ceiling to hold a super swing. Is there any way to make it longer assuming it won't compromise the strength? Thanks so much!!!
Mike H (not verified)
Mon, 09/03/2012 - 15:15
I really love this swing, but
I really love this swing, but the tree in my back yard doesn't have any suitable branches to connect it to.
Do you have any suggestions on how to build something that I can hang it from?
Mommyof4
Thu, 10/04/2012 - 18:23
Amazing Swing!!
This was my first build- super easy, fun and turned out beautiful!! I painted it a creamy white, made the back taller and the arm rest a bit wider! We have it hung next to our bed swing under the pergola my wonderful husband built! I absolutely love it!!! I am making my brother and sister in law one for Christmas!
roger1122
Wed, 04/24/2013 - 03:07
I think this is an
I think this is an informative post and it is very useful and knowledgeable. therefore, I would like to thank you for the efforts you have made in writing this article.
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