How to Build a Porch Swing
A porch swing is a bench that swings from ropes that are attached to the arms of the bench. They are most common in homes with an enclosed porch. Most homeowners build porch swings from commercial plans, which typically requires a minimal amount of skill at carpentry.
- 4"x4" Wood studs
- Drill and bit set
- Lag bolts and nuts
- Eyelets
- Rope
- Tape measure
- Cut 4 wood studs to the length called for in the plans, usually about 4 feet. Drill a hole into each stud about 6 inches from one of the ends. Connect the studs together at one end with 2 lag bolts and nuts. Connect the other pair of studs in the same manner.
- Screw 4 eyelets into a stud on the ceiling of the porch where you wish to install the porch swing. It is essential that the eyelets be attached to a stud so they can support the weight of people on the swing.
- Drill holes into each of the four corners of the porch swing.
- Pass one end of a rope through a hole in the swing and tie a knot to prevent the rope from slipping through the hole. Insert the other end of the rope through the corresponding eyelet and cut it the proper lenght that will suspend the porch swing at the proper height. Tie a knot in the rope to prevent the rope from slipping through the eyelet. Repeat this step with the other three holes in the swing.
- Adjust the ropes to ensure they are at the proper length and ensure the knots are secure.