How to Build a Simple Porch Swing

Drop into a breezy ceiling-hung bench seat, set it in motion, and feel your blood pressure start to fall. This sleek, squared-off version, created by bloggers Kim and Scott Vargo, comes together fast using 2x4 and 1x6 lumber. Another plus: If you’ve got the tools on hand, you can build it for under a hundred bucks. Here’s an overview of how the couple made this 5-foot swing; see how they adapted ana-white.com’s plans for a large modern porch swing, and find their full materials and cut list at Yellow Brick Home.

Cut all the pieces to length with a miter saw. Glue and screw evenly spaced 2x4s between the front and back aprons to form the base. Use a combo countersink bit to drill pilot holes and drive the 2 ½-inch deck screws. Fasten the four back supports the same way.

Glue and nail a 1x6 slat even with the tops of the back supports. Attach the arm supports in front, then add the armrests so they’re snug against the lower edge of the back slat. Check them for square.

Glue and nail the second back slat, snugging it up against the armrests. Add three evenly spaced seat slats. Fill screw and nail holes, sand, and paint (or stain), as desired. Attach hanging hardware.

Tip: Joists not located exactly where you want to put the swing hardware? Hang sturdy 4x4s. Or, if there’s no porch ceiling, fit doubled-up 2x blocking between rafters.