How to Build a Tree Swing

Steps

In this video, we teach you how to make an old-fashioned rope swing.

1. Cut a 1x8 piece of oak into two 16-inch long pieces. Glue and clamp the two pieces together to make the seat.

2. Brace the seat with another piece of wood screwed underneath.

3. Use a compass to draw the biggest circle you can on the board.

4. Using a drill/driver and a spade bit, drill a 1-inch wide hole through the middle to fit the rope.

5. Using a jigsaw, cut out the circle, then cut the design.

6. Sand the wood with 80-grit paper, and round over the edges.

7. Paint the seat to make your design.

8. Have a parent hang the swing. Choose a strong branch at least 6 inches thick.

9. Drill a 1-inch hole through the branch. (Don't just tie a rope around the limb or it will kill it and make the swing dangerous.)

10. Thread an eye bolt through the hole. Hold it on with a washer and two nuts to hold it on.

11. Tie the rope tightly around a metal thimble. Hook the thimble to the eyebolt with a clip.

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