A DIY children's swing in the country is a real job for a loving father. Swinging children on a homemade swing Homemade children's swing

Do you want your child to spend time fresh air and at the same time was in plain sight? Worried about your baby's safety? Then it's time to make your own baby swing! Thanks to this solution, you will not only save money, but also get the opportunity to make a design taking into account all your wishes. Make a swing “for growth” or fit it organically children's Corner into the landscape? Easily! It’s better to start by studying five optimal options implementation of the playground.

Typology of swings - exploring the available options

Why reinvent the wheel if everything has already been invented before us? But it is possible and even necessary to add your own flavor to the site design!

Swing as an element of the playground

So, depending on the type of swing, the requirements for its layout also change:

  1. A swing with a single axis of rotation is classic and the simplest to implement. The seat in them can only move in one direction (forward and backward), perpendicular to the beam on which the structure is suspended. The minimum height from the surface of the covering to the seat in this version is 35 cm.
  2. A swing with several axes of rotation (the seat also moves from side to side). Suitable for older children and quite difficult to perform. Minimum distance to the ground is identical to the first type (35 cm).
  3. Swing with one suspension point (“nest”). In this version, the suspension elements (ropes or chains) converge at one point, tapering upward. Such a projectile must be located at least 40 cm above the surface of the site. The same distance should be left from the seat to the supporting structures.

Classic swing with one axis of rotation

Advice! It is advisable to install several swings of different types on the playground or one large one that can accommodate at least two children. After all, guests will probably come to your child!

What and how to make a swing from - TOP 5 options

Inventive parents use a variety of materials to organize children's leisure time. A DIY hanging children's swing can be made from car tires, ropes, and even a rim from an old bicycle. But you need to remember one unshakable rule: all suspension elements must be flexible! The use of swings suspended, for example, from metal pipes or other hard parts.

Creative swing airplane

Seat-cradle made of PVC pipes

After construction there were PVC trims or polypropylene pipes? Great! These would make a wonderful swing for a small child.

Attention! Products from PVC pipes They are dismountable due to fittings, so you can correct a mistake made during the manufacturing process at any time. Whereas polypropylene will have to be joined by soldering.

Swing made of polypropylene pipes

To make a cradle seat you will need:

  • PVC or polypropylene pipes of 25, 32 or 40 diameters;
  • thick plywood;
  • fitting;
  • tools for cutting and soldering pipes;
  • bright paint for outdoor work.

When starting to make a children's swing with your own hands, remember the importance of painting the playground elements in bright colors. The child perceives contrasting shades better with peripheral vision. Therefore, while playing in the sandbox, he will notice with peripheral vision that the swing is already occupied, and will not fall under the swinging structure.

In order to make a swing, the pipes must first be cut:

  • 2 pieces of 30 cm each (side rails);
  • 1 piece 40 cm long (back);
  • 4 pieces of 25 cm (for the seat);
  • 6 pieces of 20 cm each (for the sides).

A sheet of plywood should be attached to the finished seat, after drilling holes in the pipes, and the structure should be hung on a chain.

An easier way to make a baby swing with your own hands is presented in the video instructions.

Video: Children's swing made of polypropylene pipes

https://goo.gl/TFDrnx

Important! Swings made from polypropylene pipes are not very durable, as this material becomes brittle when exposed to the sun. But such a product will last for a while until the child grows out of the cradle seat.

How to make a swing nest from a bicycle rim

A swing-nest, with its appearance more reminiscent of a small hammock, is one of the most favorite children's equipment. You can ride it either sitting or lying down, and if the size allows, then even together!

To make it you will need:

  • bicycle rim with a diameter of 29 inches;
  • thin polypropylene pipe;
  • 4 rings and 2 carabiners for fastening;
  • colored and white ropes.

Instructions for making a swing seat:

  • Bend the polypropylene pipe and pass it inside the rim, tying the structure through the holes for the spokes.
  • Weave a “seat” from a rope according to the dream catcher pattern provided below.
  • Wrap the entire structure with colored ropes, thread the rings for fastening and hang the swing.

Dream catcher diagram for seat

Advice! Tubes can be laid on top of the rim with a pipe for thermal insulation of pipelines. They will compact and further secure the structure.

Metal swing - how to weld a children's corner

It’s not difficult to make a children’s swing with your own hands from metal, as in the photo. But making such a structure safe for little fidgets is much more difficult.

L-shaped metal swing

First you need to decide on the type load-bearing structure. For a U-shaped swing you will need a serious foundation. Whereas L- and A-shaped structures can be installed simply on the ground, digging in the supports a little.

Scheme of a children's swing with a ladder and a horizontal bar

The spacers of the L-shaped swing can be welded together, making the lower trim. Such a structure will be portable and at the same time stable enough to do without a foundation. However, the elements of the lower harness need to be slightly deeper into the ground or sand to protect the child from hitting the metal when falling.

How to make a children's swing from metal with your own hands:

  1. Pipes of 32 diameter (you can use old ones left after dismantling the heating system, etc.) are cut to size. You will need: 4 pieces of 250 cm each for the “legs” of the L-shaped swing and 5 pipes 240 cm long (4 for the bottom frame and 1 for top crossbar).
  2. Weld the frame according to the diagram below.
  3. Clean the metal, prime the structure and paint it in 2 layers.
  4. Dig a square trench with a side of 240 cm and install a swing in it.
  5. Bottom harness fix with reinforcement (drive in sections of rods and bend them, fixing the pipes of the structure).
  6. Fill the trench with sand and stones and level the area.

Wooden swing for a fun company

To make a children's swing from wood with your own hands you need:

  • laminated veneer lumber 8 by 8 or 10 by 10 cm;
  • thick plywood;
  • larch or other hard wood;
  • boards;
  • chains, eye nuts, screws, self-tapping screws, studs and bolts.

Wooden swing for children

Instructions for building a children's swing for two:

  1. With help garden borer dig holes 1–1.5 meters deep and 20 cm in diameter.
  2. Make “sleeves” from roofing felt (cover the walls).
  3. Throw broken bricks or large stones into the holes and fill everything with concrete.
  4. When the concrete has set, install metal corners (mortgages) on which the supports will be installed.
  5. Sand the above-ground parts of the concrete pillars with a grinder and paint them in a bright color.
  6. Tighten the base with 120 screws, having first made a cut in the timber and installed studs. Cut out the spacers and attach them to the L-shaped base with studs.
  7. Make a seat from thick plywood and larch boards or other wood using thin screws. Cover the structure with a special varnish and attach a chain along the edges.
  8. Make cuts in the pillars and install them on the corners.
  9. Hang the seat on a chain.

And for the little ones, you can build a mini-hammock, in which the baby can even take a little nap! For this you will need thick fabric, ropes and wooden planks.

Hammock swing for a small child

Riding on a tire - tire placement options

Making a children's swing from a tire requires very little time and a minimum of materials. But the pleasure that a child will get from skating is simply enormous.

Swing for little ones

How to make a children's swing from a tire with your own hands:

  1. To mark the tire - draw a rectangle in the middle of the tire (the edges should be left for the handles).
  2. Carefully cut out a piece of rubber and bite off any protruding metal pieces of wire from the steel cord (or sand the edges).
  3. Turn the tire with the tread inward so that if the swing hits the child, the child will not be injured.
  4. Secure the structure to chains and hang it from a tree branch or crossbar using carabiners.

An ordinary car tire opens up enormous scope for imagination. From pliable rubber you can cut a horse, a tractor or a real bike! Or you can make a bungee for a child to play with.

Tire horse swing

Ten important rules for child safety

A DIY hanging children's swing must comply following rules:

  1. If the seat has one suspension point, the fastening of its elements must be done in such a way as to prevent twisting when rocking. Ropes or chains must not twist among themselves during use!
  2. If chains act as suspension elements, it is better to cover them. Scrap garden hoses are great for this! This will protect your child from getting his fingers caught in the chain links.
  3. You should not place more than two swings on one frame. Otherwise, the danger of children colliding when swinging increases.
  4. The landing area should be covered with sand or cut bark. This will soften the impact of the inevitable falls.
  5. The seat should be light (plastic, rubber, wood) and sufficiently springy (it is advisable to cover the sides with rubber). This will protect the child from injury when hitting the swing.
  6. You should not plant plants with thorns around the perimeter of the landing zone.
  7. All wooden parts should be carefully processed with a plane, sanded and coated with a special varnish to protect children from splinters and scratches. And bolts and other metal fasteners should be driven into the wood so that there are no protruding parts.
  8. L- or A-shaped supports are the safest. Moreover, the wider the spacing of the “legs” of the swing, the less the load on the structure during its use. Accordingly, the slower the projectile parts wear out.
  9. Remember that the carabiners on which the hanging swings are mounted need to be replaced annually, because they wear out very quickly! Do not simply hang the structure on hooks. If they are actively rocked, they can easily break. It is more reliable to use carabiners with plastic inserts that protect the part from abrasion.
  10. It is better to soak the rope at the point of contact with the fastening unit with machine oil or grease. This will extend its service life and protect the child from falling due to a break.

Triangular struts for child safety

A children's swing is a reason to involve the whole family in the manufacturing process! Everyone can help. And even the smallest family member, for whom the structure is actually being built, must take part in the work. The main thing is not to forget about the safety of the baby!

Video: do-it-yourself swing for a summer house

A favorite detail is a garden swing made of wood. They appeal to adults and children equally. It’s nice to lie down on soft pillows in the shade of trees, relax, and dream while the rhythmic swaying takes place. And for children this is the main entertainment.

Classic design of a wooden garden swing using a chain

Manufacturers present big choice ready-made models from different materials. They differ:


Conventionally, there are swings for adults and children. Large sofa-type models designed for several people are the most popular type. They are additionally equipped with an awning and soft pillows.
Suspended structures with a spring attract attention. The seat is made in the shape of a basket-cocoon made of wicker or rattan. They are hung on thick tree branches.

Design and construction of a wicker garden swing in the form of a cocoon

Cabinet sofas attached with ropes to tree supports and beams will add romantic appeal to a corner of the garden.

For entertainment and active recreation, a Russian swing for several people is suitable. Designs with mosquito nets and a tent are practical and convenient for relaxation and recreation.

Children's ones are smaller in size, in accordance with the child's height. Additionally, they are equipped with safety elements and side supports.


Classic Russian swing made from logs using a chain

Main types:

  • balancers;
  • hanging;
  • pendulum;
  • carousel.

You can choose a model according to your wishes, idea of ​​relaxation, and landscape style.

How to make a wooden swing with your own hands

Swings are most often made from wood. It has many advantages:


Such swings are easy to make, even with minimal carpentry skills. Remember that the tree needs protection from moisture, temperature changes, snow, sun, and insect pests. Therefore, all structural elements are opened with moisture-resistant varnish.

Material selection and tools

They begin work by inspecting the available material and selecting wooden blanks. They choose a model and draw its sketch.
The second option is simpler. You need to select a product, study the drawing and calculations. Based on them, purchase the necessary material for the blanks.
Prepare the instrument. To work you will need:


Drawing with the optimal dimensions of a swing for installation in a summer cottage
  • for measurements, markings - tape measure, construction pencil;
  • jigsaw, used to cut out individual parts;
  • hacksaw, circular saw (cut the main elements);
  • construction corner, level;
  • plane, for processing wood;
  • clamps are used to tighten individual elements;
  • screwdriver, hammer;
  • tighten the fastening with wrenches;
  • electric drill, screwdriver.

Finished drawing country penitent sofa under an awning

You also need fastenings: self-tapping screws, screws, fastenings for rafters (connecting complex units), eye bolts with washers. Clean and polish wooden surfaces with sandpaper or a drill attachment. The swing is painted and sealed with protective varnish.

Garden swing diagram


Layout of swing design elements prepared for assembly

A popular model among summer residents and gardeners is the sofa swing. They are mounted on two types of racks, “A” and “P” shaped. The material for them is timber and logs.

With a sofa seat length of 2 m (per 200 kg), the recommended cross-section of the uprights is at least 100 x 100 mm, for portable ones - 100 x 150 is better; 200 mm.
You must first select a location. A straight platform will ensure the stability of the structure. Optimal location- in the shadows behind the house. Then a design diagram is drawn.


The location of the garden rocking chair in the shade of a tree will allow you to relax on a hot afternoon.

It includes:


An option for decorating a seating area in the form of a sofa is a great place for relaxation.

Fastenings: self-tapping screws, screws, eye nuts with bolts (for securing the chain), metal corners, carabiner for attaching the swing. The sofa is hung on a chain.

Step-by-step instruction


A do-it-yourself swing made of timber is simple and reliable country furniture

To make a garden swing with your own hands from wood, you need to follow the sequence and carpentry rules. One of them is the ratio of the width of the bench seat and the pitch of the racks; it should be 50 cm wider. This proportion will ensure stability.

Step-by-step instruction:

  1. Manufacturing of racks. Cut the workpieces to the required sizes. The main pillars are connected in the shape of the letter “A”. They must be firmly connected, so it is better to use furniture bolts with washers.

    The process of sawing logs into bars for making pole supports

  2. Mark and attach the side bars. If this is a stationary swing, then it must be buried in the ground to a depth of 50 to 70 cm. This must be taken into account when marking the main posts.
    The process of deepening and installing frame posts into dug holes

    The underground part of the support must be treated with bitumen and oil so that they do not rot. The structure will be more reliable if the posts are cemented. Ground part divided into three proportional parts and jumpers are mounted (on 2 sides of the main rack, on long self-tapping screws).

    The principle of processing wooden poles with bitumen or other materials

  3. The next step is to install the main jumper. It is fastened to the racks metal corners.

    Device for attaching the main beam to wooden supports

  4. From the upper side jumper to the main one, jibs are mounted (on metal corners) for stability and structural strength.

    Scheme of fastening the side jibs to the main jumper

  5. Let's make a seat. To do this, you need to make two frame structures with additional vertical jumpers. The seat is 2 m long, 0.5 m wide; the back of the bench is 2 x 0.65 m. The boards are screwed to the frame at equal intervals; it is better to fasten them with self-tapping screws. Connect both parts with metal corners. Then the bench armrests are installed.

    Diagram with dimensions of various components of the swing seat design

  6. Suspension installation. 2 pairs of eye bolts are attached to the edges of the backrest frame, the other to the seats. A through hole is drilled in the main crossbar and two bolts are passed through it. A carabiner is put on them to attach the swing. Then the chain links are inserted.

    An example of installing a wooden chair with special bolts

  7. The final stage is installation, deepening the entire structure into the ground. The hole is dug 20–30 cm deeper than the underground part of the side post. Each stage of installation is checked using a level.

    An example of a swinging sofa with a canopy installed in the garden

A wooden structure will be preserved better if it is varnished and painted.

Making a children's swing

Suspended collapsible structures are the most popular type. They can be moved around the site by hanging on one of the tree branches. The child will always be in the sight of the parents. Stationary hanging swings are installed on.


Placement of a swing with a slide and ladder on the playground

The sequence of installation of the structure does not differ from the usual scheme. The standard option is a “U” shaped support with a hanging seat. It is necessary to take into account the age of the child. For little ones, additional safety jumpers are installed. Children grow, so it is better to provide a mount that allows you to adjust the height of the seat.


Safe rocking seat with bar for small children

Swing carabiners are suitable for this. The area should be flat, preferably with soft grass, sprinkled with sand. When falling, the child is less injured. Watch the video of the process of making a wooden garden swing.

How much delight and happy squealing a child’s swing evokes in children. For an adult, memories of a swing evoke nostalgia, tender feelings and a surge of peace. If there are still no children's swings at your country house, this needs to be fixed urgently. Of course, by purchasing a factory-made swing, you will save yourself a lot of hassle, but making it yourself won’t be too difficult, and your self-esteem and authority in the eyes of your daughter or son will increase significantly. Especially if you have at your disposal necessary tools, hardworking hands and a bit of imagination with ingenuity.

Variety of models of children's swings

It goes without saying that at the dacha there is enough work in the garden, in the construction of outbuildings, and with the vegetable garden. Also, bother with a swing, you might think. Be that as it may, with the construction of a swing, you can be sure that your five-year-old child will sit quietly in one place for some time and will not have to look for him in hot places. Children under five years old should absolutely not be left on the swing without adult supervision. Although often this role can be played by older children (yours or your neighbor’s). Especially girls who love to play “mother-daughter” and take the “maternal” responsibilities assigned to them responsibly.

Having decided to build an attraction for your child, you need to decide on the model of the swing. It can be:

  • hanging single or double swings with seats in the shape of a bench, high chair, airplane and everything that your wild imagination suggests;

    Seats for hanging swings can be designed as your imagination dictates

  • swing-balance (if you have more than one child in the family or many nearby children who will keep your baby company);

    Making a swing-balancer with your own hands is not difficult

  • swing-chaise lounges for the youngest children, which serve as temporary cradles in the fresh country air;

    Your baby will always get a good night's sleep in a sun lounger in the fresh air.

  • swing boats, so tenderly bringing back memories of a distant and carefree childhood;

    A swing boat can be made using the welding method

  • carousels with seats, without seats, with horses and other wooden animals.

    Bright swing carousels will become the central attraction of the summer cottage

Advantages and disadvantages of children's swings

Before you get started, you need to weigh the pros and cons. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this or that type of children's swing. Among the wide variety of types and models, we need to choose an option that is convenient and safe, and most importantly, easy to do with our own hands. Using the table, it’s easy to choose an option for a children’s swing for your dacha, which you can make yourself in your garden.

Table: advantages and disadvantages of children's swings for a summer cottage

Preparatory stage: dimensions, drawings, calculations

If the issue with choosing a swing model has been resolved, it’s time to start drawing, selecting tools and materials from which you plan to build a miracle of landscape design for your child that will be the envy of your neighbors. Each owner suggests what material would be best to make a swing from. The basis will be profiled metal pipes or wooden beam(even cuttings from thick trunks of old trees).

If the pendulum of your doubts has swung in favor of a wooden building, then you need to have on your farm wooden blanks for a base made of timber or a trunk, as well as woodworking tools:

  • circular saw, drill and jigsaw;
  • wood screws, a screwdriver, bolts with nuts and washers of the required size;
  • hammers, pliers, tape measure;
  • chains, cable or strong rope to secure the seat;
  • special means to protect wood from moisture and multi-colored paints to delight the baby;
  • shovel, sand and cement, if there is a need for concreting pits for supports.

And if you are the happy owner of a welding machine, and electric welding is familiar to you, then if you have iron material, it is quite possible to weld the structure yourself. Such swings are the strongest, most durable and reliable. Both children and adults can swing on them.

Balance swing and the simplest hanging swing

Both types of swings can be easily built by even a novice carpenter. Every man who understands full responsibility for the well-being and mood of his baby will be able to master the drawings and step-by-step instructions.

The balancer is more suitable for older children. Playing in pairs adapts the child to society, instills sociability and cooperation skills. The irresponsible actions of one child can result in injury to another.

Of all types of swings, the balancer is the least expensive in terms of materials, time and labor invested. When building a swing, it is necessary to take into account the age of the children and their weight.

Correct calculations will help you avoid mistakes when making swings

In a hanging swing, the main load is carried by the racks, and the seat can vary depending on your imagination, skills and additional finishing materials.

When making a swing, adhere to the recommended sizes

Calculation of the necessary materials for the production of hanging swings and balance beams

The swing-balancer is constructed as with wooden base, and with iron. Moreover, the seats themselves can even be made of plastic. Their types and shapes can vary from mice to horses. It would be original to make seats for the animal in whose year the baby was born: a tiger cub, a kitten, a monkey, a dog.

Since working with iron and a welding machine requires certain skills, it is easier to make a swing out of wood. The most suitable wood is oak, birch or pine. Wooden structures do not require concreting and are relatively stable.

The same materials are used in the construction of hanging swings. The wood is cut based on the dimensions in the drawings using tools for woodworking (or metalworking, if you decide to work with iron).

DIY swing-balancer, step-by-step instructions

If such work is new to you, then for the first time you need to take wood as the basis for the balancer. It is easy to process and works well with varnish and paint. True, they will have to be applied in at least two layers. So, we will need:

  • two hardwood timbers measuring 40*100*2500 mm;
  • two racks 40*140*600 mm;
  • two pairs of transverse and lateral supports (40*140*900 mm and 40*140*600 mm, respectively);
  • two supports for handles 40*140*300;
  • two wooden rod for handles 600 mm and diameter 30 mm;
  • two seats 20*200*400;
  • bolt for support axle with nuts and washers:
  • screws or self-tapping screws.

Handles can also be made from scraps of metal-plastic water pipe: stylish, beautiful and comfortable for little children’s fingers. The shape of the seats varies from rectangular to oval, and look like a daisy or a cloud. Alternatively, they can be covered with foam rubber with leatherette or other dense material and made removable. These seats will be perfectly preserved in the garage or shed until the next summer season.

Begin step-by-step construction swing:

    Using screws or self-tapping screws, we connect the transverse supports with the beams. The design should be stable and solid, so do not skimp on connections.

    Connect the posts and supports together

  1. We attach the side ones to the transverse supports in the same way.

    Secure the cross and side supports together

  2. We install supports for the handles between the longitudinal beams and secure them with self-tapping screws. We drill a hole in the center for the support axis.

    Using self-tapping screws, connect the main beams to the supports for the handles

  3. We drill holes in the handle supports, install and secure the handles.
  4. We fasten the seats, assemble all the components into a single structure and install them on a flat surface.

    Assemble the structure and install it on a flat surface

Processing sharp corners, removing splinters, applying stain, acrylic varnish or paints and you can give the swing to the playful hands of the smallest summer residents.

A little imagination and children's laughter will make you happy

All parts of the structure must be carefully treated to remove knots and thorns, and the screws must be recessed into the body of the tree, puttied and painted over.

Some features and care issues

The location for installing the swing must be selected so that the surface is as flat as possible. They will look better in a summer cottage if they are painted in bright, colorful colors. All that is required of you is to regularly check the reliability of the fastenings and touch up the areas peeled off from atmospheric influences. And your work will be rewarded with the joy and happiness of satisfied kids.

Never put your child on a faulty swing. Safety precautions in a particular case have weight. Even if it is a small weight of your baby.

Video: do-it-yourself balance swing

Hanging swing: easy and simple

To make a hanging swing at your summer cottage, you will need a high-quality, inexpensive wooden beam (you can use one you can find on the farm or buy it at a building materials store). Birch, spruce, pine have excellent quality characteristics for this idea. You also need a standard set of tools for working with wood: a circular saw, a jigsaw, a grinder, a drill, a screwdriver and other necessary tools for marking and processing wooden surfaces.

Additional materials will be needed:

  • wood screws;
  • bolts for fastening the base of the swing;
  • eye bolts for attaching the swing seat to chains or strong ropes;
  • fastening carabiners;
  • paint, stain, varnish to protect wooden surfaces from moisture and sun.

Then we decide on the shape of the base for the swing. It can be a U-shaped frame, A-shaped or L-shaped.

Choose a suitable base for the swing support

If the choice is made in favor of a U-shaped base, the base vertical racks for greater safety, you need to not only dig to a depth of 70–80 cm, but also concrete it.

We prepare everything necessary materials and let's get to work:

  1. Using a drill or shovel, we prepare holes for support posts, having previously treated the base with an antifungal coating.

    It is more convenient to make holes for the base with a hand drill

  2. We strengthen the base with sand, screenings or crushed stone and concrete if necessary.

    Strengthen the base of the swing with concrete

  3. TO support pillars We connect the crossbar to which the chains, cables or ropes with the seat will be attached. For reliability, you can use special metal fasteners.

    Use metal fasteners for L-shaped and A-shaped bases

  4. Using anchor or eye bolts, we attach chains to the horizontal crossbar, to which the seat of the desired shape will subsequently be connected.

Attach the chains to horizontal beam using anchor bolts with nuts and washers of the appropriate diameter

When securing seats with anchor bolts, be sure to use additional locknuts. This will increase the safety of the fastenings and enhance the reliability of fixation.

Variety of seat options for hanging swings

Trips to the country provide not only fruitful work, but also thorough rest. And what could be more wonderful than relaxing in the shade on a swing made by yourself, also with a mug of cool kvass. Often hanging swings are made in such a way that not just one child, but also the rest of the family members can swing at the same time. A swing with a bench seat is suitable for this option.

On a swing with a sofa seat, the baby can sit comfortably with mom and dad

There are a great variety of seat options for this design: an old skateboard, a conveyor belt, car tires and a variety of chairs of various designs.

Making a seat-board for a hanging swing is not difficult for a novice craftsman

A simple board can be fixed to ropes using ordinary knots.

An old skateboard is suitable for a country holiday

This option for attaching a skateboard is designed for a light weight child. For greater safety, you can place old pillows under the swing.

Attach the tire to ropes or chains in 4 places using eyebolts

Swings made from old tires were held in high esteem by our parents and were very popular along with bungee jumps.

One type of swing with an original seat will delight your baby

There are countless seat options for hanging swings, but the main thing to remember is the safety of your children. All fasteners must be reliable and of high quality.

To fasten the main crossbars of the swing, use bolts with nuts and washers rather than nails.

Video: garden swing in 1 day

Finishing, lubrication and other details

Whatever swing option you choose, each of them needs care and attention. If you prefer a swing made of natural wood, make sure that the material is well treated with a special antifungal antiseptic and impregnated with water-repellent agents. The wooden parts of the swing must be coated with varnish or paint for exterior use: this will protect the wood and give it the desired shade. The paint can be matched to the color of the gazebo, veranda or fences. Or you can choose a color and paint it together with your child. If he is old enough and independent, he will be happy to keep you company. The main thing is that you both then miss your mother.

Swings using metal structures also need to be painted and treated with an anti-corrosion coating. In addition, all movable joints of the swing must be treated with thick lubricant. Litol, nigrol, cyatim or any other will do. It is enough to lubricate the swing once a year before the opening of the summer season.

If you plan to build a swing without a canopy, then in late autumn you need to protect it with an awning. This will protect from snow and rain and extend their service life.

If you decide to build a swing for your child yourself, we hope that your first experience will not disappoint you. Considering that over time the baby will grow up, there may be a need to build a swing with a durable iron frame. Try, learn, experiment with your children, invent. And remember that negative experience is also experience. And children's cheerful and enthusiastic laughter will encourage you to new heights of country-swinging skills.

A swing for children is one of the necessary elements for arranging a family plot. They will be relevant both in an ordinary household and in the country. And if you consider that now there are many of the most various designs, each of which can be assembled by a simple person with his own hands, then it is possible to create a real children’s corner at minimal cost, which can not only provide leisure time for children, but also significantly improve the overall exterior of the site.

In this material we will look at 9 master classes that answer the question of making a wide variety of children's swings with your own hands:

  • Stationary single-seat made of timber;
  • Stationary doubles on a metal A-frame;
  • Balancer from car tire and boards;
  • Hanging for home in the ceiling;
  • Hanging on a tree from a board;
  • Hanging on a crossbar for apartments for children under 5 years old;
  • From fabric to wood or to the ceiling for children from six months;
  • In the form of a hammock with a pre-prepared mesh;
  • Figured swing.

How do children's swings differ from adults' ones?

First of all, before you start looking for master classes on creating children's swings for the garden and at home, you should remember that such designs must differ from those intended for adults. Main differences:


Therefore, we offer you a variety of options precisely with the aim of ensuring maximum compliance of the swing with children's needs. At the same time, in our selection of master classes, we took into account the needs of children of different ages and can offer wide choose for every taste.

Types of swings for children

There are a wide variety of swing options for toddlers and older children, some of which can be easily made at minimal cost from scrap materials. Others may require specific tools and useful skills. Still others can rightfully be called real works of art.

By type of frame material

In general, there are a huge variety of design options made from exotic materials. For example, created entirely from ropes or rubber, fiberglass and other polymers.

However, it is not surprising that the palm is almost always held by traditional options made of wood or metal. We should also not forget that individual structures can contain both wooden and metal elements to achieve the best performance in all necessary parameters. We suggest that you familiarize yourself with the comparative table of wooden and metal structures.

Relative availability and low cost of the material;Higher cost Supplies;
Ease of processing;The need for tools and skills to work with metal;
The need for special care and surface treatment;The need for treatment with an anti-corrosion compound;
Relatively weak wear resistance and durability;High strength and wear resistance of the structure;
Fire hazard.Absolute fire safety.

Wooden swings for children are a good choice, as they often require a minimal amount of effort to create. Yes, a lot various types wooden swing, both for home and street, can be built simply from scrap materials available in almost every household or left over after construction. In addition, wood is an extremely easy material to process, so making a wooden swing for children with your own hands does not require any special skills or complex tools.

However, wood also has a number of disadvantages. For example, these include less resistance to negative environmental influences and the need for special processing. In addition, wood is a fire hazard and less durable than similar sized metal structural elements.

The wear and tear of wood is higher, which is a very significant factor when it comes to making outdoor swings for children, since they are constantly exposed to stress.

Children's metal swings for the dacha are distinguished by considerable durability and high strength, but making them yourself may require both the acquisition of materials and the availability of specific tools and experience in working with them. Of course, there are extremely simple designs that almost anyone can make, but the costs of creating them will also be higher than with wooden analogues that are similar in nature.

Although metal is more durable, it is also a more dangerous material for children to use because it has greater hardness and weight.

By type of fastening

Depending on what type of fastening will be used on a children's swing, its placement and directly all other design features will depend, including the complexity of manufacturing and the total cost of costs.
There are a huge number of different mounting options, so we will consider only the basic methods of fastening children's swings in the house, on the street, as well as portable structures that can be placed where it is necessary and convenient.

Stationary children's country swings are often strong, massive structures, which in some situations can even be additionally strengthened with a columnar foundation, which provides them high level security.

Such designs also have corresponding disadvantages - constant exposure to the street requires appropriate treatment with anti-corrosion coatings, as well as high strength. But in general, a well-made stationary outdoor children's swing can last several decades. The main structures in this case can be:

  • Balancers;
  • Hanging A-shaped (or any other);
  • Carousels;
  • On a spring.

Hanging for home and street

Hanging children's garden swings are the simplest design that dates back centuries. Roughly speaking, a banal block on a rope also has a right to life, although safety and comfort in this case leave much to be desired, especially when used by young children.

If necessary, they can be installed both indoors and outdoors, and some of the structures can be easily disassembled and transported to the desired location with a minimum of effort and time. In total, two main materials are used for fastening: chain and rope. See the photos below for what you can attach a hanging swing to.

The seat for such a swing can be either open or have a backrest. The material can be either plastic, wood, metal or a combination of the above materials.

In general, a hanging swing is the minimum that can be made in a matter of hours, giving your child an excellent way to spend leisure time.

Children's portable swings will be a convenient option for situations where the final appearance of the house or site will still change, and it is necessary to provide leisure time. They have the advantages of both stationary outdoor and home structures.

However, not every option can be executed in mobile form. For example, it is almost impossible to make a mobile spring swing, since it requires a strong and deep foundation. In general, the main advantages and disadvantages can be summarized in a short list:

  • Portable swings are mobile, which means they can easily be protected from bad weather and other negative environmental factors.
  • Many options are prefabricated, making them easy to transport and store.
  • Mobile baby swings usually require more complex design or smaller loads.
  • Wear resistance and service life are lower than that of stationary options.

In general, this option is suitable in many situations, as it greatly simplifies the solution of a wide variety of business issues.

According to the age

As mentioned above, when building a homemade children's swing or purchasing one, it is extremely important to take into account the age of the child's children. In general, the options existing on the market imply a basic division into three age categories, the features of each of which will be described below.

Swings for babies are almost always mobile or home, since children under the age of three years need increased parental control and a special approach to materials. In particular, most of these structures have an extremely small height, so that even an accidental fall or impact of a structural element cannot lead to injury to a child.

Self-made swings for children under three years of age must either be in the form of cradles, or have reliable locking elements for the baby that he could not unfasten on his own, or be operated strictly under the supervision of adults without the child being able to use the structure in their absence.

Swings for children from three years old may also include independent use their children. They can be made in almost any design options using a wide range of materials. However, they are subject to additional safety requirements and are smaller in size than adult swings to minimize any risk of injury to children.

If you want to make a swing for children over 3 years old, you can also use the drawings for full-fledged adult structures, simply reducing them general dimensions one and a half to two times.

Swings for teenagers may not differ from designs for adults, both in materials and in size. Here Special attention is paid not to the exterior and appearance, but directly to the characteristics of the swing. The only limitation may be the standards of GOST R 52167-2012, which provides for the absence of rigid suspensions, dimensions and other standards.

Stationary single swing made of wood

A stationary children's swing made of wood is one of the most interesting options, the independent production of which will cost a minimum of time and money. There are a large number of different design options, each of which has its own advantages and disadvantages, but we will look at building a U-shaped wooden swing for children with our own hands, as in the photo below.

Peculiarities

Children's U-shaped swings made of wood require minimal material consumption, but such a design will in any case be stationary. Installing a stationary swing without the possibility of moving it to a new place also acts as an additional guarantee of safety, because stationary models are highly durable and simply physically cannot tip over.

The features of U-shaped outdoor children's swings include the following factors:

  • Simplicity and low cost;
  • Exclusively stationary option;
  • High strength and reliability;
  • The absence of a large number of racks reduces the risk of injury;
  • U-shaped stationary children's swings for the garden have wide potential for further construction of a children's playground on the site.
  • A U-shaped swing requires installation of a foundation.

Do-it-yourself U-shaped swing made of wood for children

  1. Prepare a flat area for future swings.
  2. It is necessary to cut the timber so that you get 2 vertical posts 3000x150x150 each and 2 horizontal crossbars 1500x150x50 mm.
  3. A U-shaped structure should be assembled on the ground. For assembly, use 1 long self-tapping screws. on a horizontal post on each side for fastening, as well as 3 pieces evenly for greater structural strength, as in the photo below.
  4. Cut the corners of the vertical posts with a knife or plane and sand them with sandpaper.
  5. The bottom meter of vertical posts should be treated with a protective coating against moisture. The best option would be to cover it with used motor oil.
  6. On the vertical crossbar, 30 cm from the middle, holes are drilled for bolts, which are fixed on it with eye nuts, which should be directed downwards. Don't forget to use washers.
  7. It is necessary to dig a foundation for the racks with a depth of 1200 mm. A sand cushion of 200 m is poured under the foundation, and the posts are buried a meter deep into the dug holes. Next, fill it with concrete (you can use M400 cement to make it in the proportion: 1 cement x 3 sand x 5 crushed stone).
  8. Hang the carabiners on the eye bolts.
  9. Prepare a seat from a board measuring 250x600 mm. Drill one hole with a diameter for a rope in the corners of the board at a distance of 20 mm from the edges, as shown in the photo below. Also nail two 250x50mm boards at the bottom of the board to strengthen the seat (don’t forget to drill them for the rope too).
  10. Pass the rope in a loop through the carabiner, and the free ends of the rope through the holes in the seat. Secure it under the seat with a knot. Subsequently, the seat height can be adjusted. Repeat the same procedure with the second carabiner.
  11. Treat the wood with primer, varnish or paint of your choice.
    This design will have to withstand weight up to 200 kilograms, so you don’t have to worry about child safety

Stationary metal swing for two

For a large family, a good solution would be to make a stationary children's swing from metal with your own hands for two.

Peculiarities

Key features of children's metal swing:

  • almost any similar metal structure can easily withstand loads of up to 300 kilograms;
  • Self-production will require a welding machine and the ability to work with it;
  • The need to purchase structural elements, since they are not always available;
  • Indicators of durability, reliability and wear resistance will be higher than that of similar wooden models.

DIY A-shaped metal swing for two children

A simple and accessible design for everyone, an outdoor metal swing for two children at the dacha is the most optimal in terms of time spent, the necessary skills and the total cost of consumables. If you do everything according to the scheme we recommend, you will get an attraction like the one in the photo below.

The procedure for making such iron swings for children yourself will be as follows:

  1. First, let's make the frame of the swing. Let's take two long pipes, 5000 mm in length and 40 mm in cross section. Each of them must be bent with a pipe bender at an angle of approximately 30 degrees, as in the figure below.
  2. The second stage we will need two tubes with a cross section of 25 mm and a length of 500 mm. We weld them to our curved tubes so that we get spacers. You need to do it as in the picture below with each of the two supports.
  3. The final stage in the construction of the frame will be the fastening of the two resulting halves with a vertical pipe with a cross-section of 40 mm and a length of 3000 mm. We use welding machine. The end result looks like the photo below.
  4. It is important to understand that such a swing will be stationary, since we will secure it with a columnar foundation. If you want to make a portable structure, then the bending angle of the support posts should not be 30 degrees, but 40. The spacers are welded not in the middle of the supports, but in their lower part so that an isosceles triangle is obtained. However, we are making a stationary version, so we will prepare the foundation.
  5. We dig holes 600 mm deep. Width approximately 100x100 mm. The location of the holes along the base of our swing frame. Take 4 square pieces of steel 80x80 mm for mortgages (steel thickness from 3 mm). Compact at the bottom of the holes sand cushion by 100 mm. Next, insert the reinforcement bars so that their tops are just at ground level.
  6. Fill the holes with concrete mortar. Next, we weld the mortgages to them. Embeds must be welded when the concrete has set, but has not yet completely hardened. We will secure the mortgages using concrete anchor bolts, 4 pieces for each rack. Next, we weld the base of the frame to the mortgages. The foundation and frame are ready. You can see the drawing of the foundation for a children's metal swing below.
  7. To fasten the seats to the horizontal crossbar, you need to fix 4 loops with eye bolts, onto which the chains for the swing will be attached.
  8. To make a seat, take a 600x200 mm board. Drill 4 holes along the edges with an indentation of 15 mm and a diameter of 5 mm for fastenings for metal triangles (without a base), to which the chains are in turn attached. Fix the triangles on the board using screws and a screwdriver in the holes that you made earlier. Do as in the picture below (only using a board).
  9. Do the operation twice to secure the two seats. Hang them at the right height depending on the child's height. As can be understood from the procedure described above, such a design requires minimum expenses and time consumption.

Children's swing balancer

The design of balancers is perhaps one of the simplest and most ancient. Considering that such swings can be used by at least two people, they will be an excellent option for shared leisure time with the whole family with a child, or for several children.

The advantages of balancers, in a sense, are also their disadvantages. Thus, such a swing perfectly develops teamwork and encourages social interaction between children with each other, however, if the child is often left alone, such a design will be completely useless for him, unlike other options.

The variety of existing designs is extremely large. This can be either a simple swing made of logs or complex and beautifully decorated attractions containing plastic and metal elements. In addition, some options can be strengthened with additional springs, which significantly enhances the pleasure of swinging.

You can learn more about the production in a separate article on our website. The material contains 4 master classes. But still, we decided to highlight one interesting version of the balancer in this article. Read on to learn how to make a children's swing from tires.

Children's swing made from tires

Old tires are an excellent material for making swings. After all, car tires are durable, soft and flexible at the same time. All this allows it to be used for the manufacture of a wide variety of home, outdoor and garden equipment, furniture, and, of course, children's swings. The most popular and affordable tire option at all times was the simplest design, requiring only a hanging point, a rope and the tire itself.

You can make such a swing from tires yourself in just a few minutes. However, safety, as well as interest for children, will leave much to be desired. You can reduce the danger of tire swings by following these simple instructions:

  • Use only high strength static climbing rope;
  • Check tires for strength and do not use torn material;
  • The thickness of the branch must be at least 25 cm, and the distance from it to the tree post must be at least one meter.

But in addition to this simple design, there is a whole range of much more interesting, safe and original swings made from old tires, which will allow you to organize an interesting exterior on the site and give any child the opportunity to have a fun rest.

Such designs have reduced wear resistance and are not the most attractive appearance. Not in every exterior they will look appropriate and relevant.

Next, we will look at the process of creating a quick, convenient and simple swing from tires with your own hands. This will be a horizontal balancer - a very attractive design that is not very often installed by people in households. So, such swings will be an excellent addition to other attractions described in this article and will allow you to create a real children's playground in your dacha or in the courtyard of a private house with minimal cost and effort.

To create the implementation of your plan, you will need the following tools and materials:

  • Screwdriver and wrench;
  • Drill;
  • One tire;
  • Board 3000x150x40 mm;
  • Two bars measuring 700x50x50 mm;
  • Sandpaper;
  • Saw;
  • Construction knife;
  • Screwdriver bolts with round heads, washers;
  • Paint and varnish materials and equipment.

All of the above dimensions do not have to be perfectly accurate - this is the advantage of this swing, since it allows the use of almost any suitable material, including various old boards available in almost any household.

  1. First of all, you need to select a suitable tire and prepare it. The ideal option would be old domestic ones summer tires, since they will be rigid enough to withstand constant, long-term loads. High-quality foreign soft tires, especially winter ones, will be better used in a more profitable way.
  2. Preparing the tire for the swing will require you to cut it horizontally into two halves. Most of them are reinforced, so instead of a construction knife, you may need metal scissors or a hacksaw. One of the halves will become the basis for the swing. The second half can be cut in half and additional shock absorbers can be made from the finished quarters at the ends of the swing.
  3. Preparing boards and bars. Since the board will be used by children, sharp corners should be sawed off and sanded to avoid possible injuries during operation.
  4. Next, you should mark the middle of the board and mark the location for installing half of the tire. At the extreme points it is necessary to mark places for attaching the bars - it is to them in the horizontal plane that the tire will be attached.
  5. Holes are drilled in the board with a drill and bars are attached to them using self-tapping screws, 5 fasteners for each bar (see diagram). Afterwards, points for the holes in the tire are marked, drilled, and the tire is secured exactly in the middle. In total you will get 16 mounts.
  6. After this, you can begin installing shock absorbers from tire quarters - they should be installed on the edges of the board. The shock absorbers are also attached to bolts, the heads of which should be on the top side of the main swing board.
  7. When all the elements are secured, you can begin paintwork. It is recommended to treat the tire with silicone grease or simply rub it with glycerin. The swing itself can be processed in any way convenient for you. For example, using wood stain and varnish, or using ordinary oil paint.

Hanging swing

There are a huge number of varieties of children's hanging swings for the garden and at home, which can differ both in materials and location, method of fastening, type of seat, age of the child and many other parameters. However, the basic principle of their operation, regardless of the chosen design, is the same.

The key feature of hanging swings in general is the presence of the suspension itself, as well as its fixation points. Roughly speaking, the most primitive version of this type of swing, even without the use of a seat, is a banal rope suspended on any horizontal beam. However, often hanging swings for children still have seats.

For apartments and houses in the ceiling

A ceiling hanging swing for the home is not only excellent entertainment for a child, but also an opportunity to add variety to the interior. The main thing in this case is to correctly build the suspension and select the seat - this is what we will focus on.

The procedure will be as follows


One of the simplest and most ancient types of hanging swings are those on a tree made of boards. They do not require any complex manipulations, or experience in working with different materials, or even the construction of racks. So, in order to make a swing on a tree from a board, you only need a board, a hole drilled in it, a rope and 5 minutes of free time.

Considering the simplicity of this design - a rope is thrown over a tree and tied in a loop, and then fixed in the holes of the board, anyone can make it with their own hands.

But you should remember several features of installing a hanging swing on a tree, namely:


DIY swing for little ones

A cradle for babies is also a swing that has come to our time from the most ancient times. Even the youngest children benefit from swinging on a swing - it develops the eye, vestibular apparatus, sense of rhythm and space.

However, the approach to such designs must be completely special, since the safety of children under three years of age comes first and imposes a number of extremely strict restrictions.

Features of such swings

The key feature of swings for babies is the mechanisms that ensure their safety. In general, given the existence of many different types of swings for children under three years old, as well as the characteristics and differences of even such tender ages, their main principle should be:

  • The impossibility of a child accidentally or intentionally falling out of the structure;
  • The child’s inability to use the swing independently in the absence of adults;
  • Absence small parts, hard edges and corners;
  • At least four seat suspension points.

At the same time, you should not think that it is possible to ensure all such safety standards only by purchasing swings for children in the store. In general, if you have the right tool and minimal skills in handling it, you can make them yourself, including from a variety of scrap materials available in every household.

Types of swings for babies

In general, swings for kids can be outdoors, but indoor versions are much more popular, as they allow you to always keep the child under control and provide him with a pleasant and useful pastime at home at any time of the year. Swings for children under three years old can be:


The materials used in the construction of swings for children can be very diverse, but it is not recommended to use wood anywhere, with the exception of support posts and other purely structural elements.

Seats are best made of fabric or plastic.

On the crossbar in the house for children under 5 years old

This block is more designed to help you understand how to make a crossbar for hanging a children's swing in an apartment. However, we will also look at installing the seat. If you can make the crossbar yourself, then all you have to do is choose one of the design options (or use ours).

The procedure will be as follows:

  1. Start making your home swing by assembling the seat. To do this, you will need 7 multi-colored tubes 300 mm long and two 300 mm fastenings for them, as in the photo below. Insert the tubes into the slots. Thus, the square base for the seat will be ready. If you do not have such fasteners, use self-tapping screws to attach the tubes to each other.
  2. The second step is to install 4 vertical tubes on the sides of the swing, and then place 4 more tubes in a square on top of them. Using the same principle, we will install another tube for the back. As a result, you should get something like in the photo.
  3. We do not additionally fasten the resulting structure with anything, since we will continue to use rope. We pass the rope through the holes made in advance (as in the photo). As a result, you get a solid structure that can be hung. These recommendations are more suitable for assembling a purchased dismountable swing, but you can use the general advice from this article to do it yourself.
  4. The next step will be the actual installation of the crossbar for such a swing in an apartment or house. As a crossbar, you can use an ordinary piece of round pipe with a cross-section of no more than 30 mm. The length of the pipe depends on the distance between the walls in the place where you decide to install it. We recommend using narrow corridors or doorways.
  5. The pipe is attached to the walls using two metal wall mountings (can also be called steel sheets 80x200mm with a thickness of 2-3mm). Two holes with a diameter of 5 mm are drilled in the mortgages, as well as in the wall on each side, and anchors are driven into them. And the pipe itself is directly inserted into a piece of round tube with a diameter of 35 mm, which was previously welded to steel sheets.
  6. Next, you need to hang the children's home swing on the crossbar. This is done with the help of special fastenings on which the rope from the seat is attached.
  7. You can wrap all the structural elements with tightly stuffed, brightly colored scraps of fabric and secure them to the swing with twine. Also place a cushion on the seat. The swing on the crossbar for the home is ready.

This crossbar will also be useful in the future - you can use it to do pull-ups and also hang other swings when the child grows up.

The benefits of using seat tubes will be most relevant to parents of very young children. Plastic pipes are an ideal material for structures intended for children, because their weight and hardness are much lower than that of wood, and, especially, metal. As a result, even an accidental blow with such a seat with full amplitude cannot harm the child’s health.

Made from fabric for children from six months

This simple hanging outdoor swing will ideal option for relaxing on the site or in the country with a baby. They can be made in less than an hour, and if you have all the necessary materials prepared, assembly will take even less time.

From materials and tools you will need:

  • Two pieces of natural fabric 800 mm long;
  • Four wooden slats with a length of 300 mm and a cross-section of 25 mm;
  • Sewing supplies;
  • Drill;
  • Rope for hanging;
  • Sandpaper;
  • Fastening elements (anchor, carabiner).

The procedure for making a swing from fabrics for children with your own hands from scratch will be as follows:


1. Process carefully wooden slats sandpaper until any corners, irregularities and splinters disappear and drill holes in the rivers along the edges with a diameter of a rope;
2. Lay out the cuts crosswise. In this case, the width of the lower part of the cross should be half that of the upper one.
3. Sew the cuts so that they form a flap with loops and thread pre-prepared slats through them.
4. Thread the rope through the holes in the slats and tie. The height of the suspension will be controlled using nodes.
5. You can hang the swing from a tree or crossbar using this ring. It is put on a pre-prepared carabiner, which, in turn, is attached to an anchor. We have already described how to do this earlier in the article.
6. The design is ready for us - you can give your baby the joy and pleasure of relaxing in nature.

Children's swings made from scrap materials

Our people have always been famous for their skill. The lack of cash did not make our ancestors despondent, but, on the contrary, encouraged them to find non-standard solutions and use any available materials. There is even a saying dedicated to this: “The need for invention is cunning.” And such ingenuity can be used in almost any matter - for example, it was in Russia that they came up with many interesting options for how to make a children's swing from scrap materials with your own hands.

What can be used for such a swing

For various types of swings, you can use almost any unnecessary materials left in household. First of all, this concerns ropes and boards - in the simplest cases, even such a set will be enough to install a comfortable and simple children's swing from scrap materials. But with the right level of ingenuity, anything can be used:

  • Plastic pipes;
  • Metal constructions;
  • Chains;
  • Twine;
  • Fabrics;
  • Plastic items;
  • Tires.

And many many others. We will offer you a very original children's swing-hammock, which will be very easy to make with your own hands from scrap materials, especially if you have unnecessary nets or just a large amount of twine.

DIY wicker swing-hammock

Making a wicker hanging swing from scrap materials with your own hands is very simple. It is not even necessary to have a ready-made network or uniform threads. A hammock woven from a wide variety of scraps will look much more original. Of course, such an approach will require long and thoughtful weaving of the network and the formation of the necessary pieces. Therefore, further we will consider the construction of a swing-hammock from scrap materials, provided that the network is already ready (it is better to entrust the weaving to women, or even buy a ready-made one).

Step-by-step instructions for building a country swing for children from a ready-made network:

Figured swing

It is quite difficult to surprise modern children with the usual simple joys of life. They want to see something new and bright, and a simple swing for many children is no longer an object of dreams. However, a good, bright and unusual figure swing will certainly be able to attract the attention of even the most spoiled brats.

What can be a figured swing?

Almost any swing can be figured - both hanging and balance beams or spring rockers - it all depends, first of all, on the skill of their creator, the breadth of his imagination and available funds, tools and materials.

Some craftsmen create real masterpieces from car tires, others carve works of art from wood, and still others simply order ready-made figured forged elements for a swing or other decor, trying to please your children.

The easiest way to create a shaped swing is to cut out any interesting objects from wood - primarily cars, animals, airplanes, steam locomotives, and other vehicles. A schematic outline and proper painting will not require any specific skills, and the speed of completing all the work will allow the child to receive a wonderful and, possibly, completely unique attraction in just a few days.

DIY horse swing

One of the simplest options is a spring swing. In most cases, they are always performed in a figure form. The simplest option would be to create a spring swing in the shape of a car or a whale, but in general the creation technology will not differ radically for almost any possible decorative shape.

We didn't set out to tell you how to cut beautiful figures made of wood or metal, we'll just tell you general principle devices of figured swings with an interesting design.

The general procedure is very simple (dimensions from these swings):


About seats for children's swings

A seat for a children's swing is one of the main elements, since the safety of the child directly depends on its design.


The most common and convenient material in all respects is wood - it does not have such a high mass as metal seats, which means it will cause less damage if an accidental impact of the swing occurs.

In addition, the seats can often be combined. For example, a metal frame with wooden crossbars on which the child will sit. In general, for children's swings it is not recommended to make entirely metal seats without ventilation, since such seats will be absolutely unsuitable for use in the cold season and in general will not be so comfortable for the baby.

For home swings, and especially for small children, it is recommended that the seats be made of wood and covered with soft materials. These seats are extremely safe to use and are also very bright.

For small children, swing seats made of PVC pipes can also be perfect. They can easily support the weight of a child up to five years old, while being the safest of all materials.

There are also full-fledged ready-made plastic seats for swings, which can be bought in various stores. Often, purchasing such seats can be a good addition to the swings you have already assembled yourself.

There is simply no clear answer to the question “what to make a seat for a children’s swing from.” Each of the existing options has its own advantages and disadvantages.

How to use a swing correctly

Proper operation of children's swings is the key to the safety of both the children directly riding and the people around them. Swings are a relatively dangerous attraction, since children can experience slight overloads, sharp jerks and high speeds on them. But correct operation will avoid any troubles and possible negative consequences.

In general, the general informal rules of operation are as follows:

  • Children under three years of age should not be left unattended;
  • Children should be taught not to be in " work area» swing;
  • Sick and unwell children, including those in a state of nervous stress, sadness, or vice versa – overexcitement, should not ride;
  • You should swing on a swing exclusively in the direction specified by its design;
  • The ride must be regularly inspected for structural defects, signs of wear and damage.

Painting a children's swing

The question of how to paint a children's swing is not always of concern to parents and loved ones. But ignoring it is a serious mistake. First of all, painting is necessary because modern paints are high quality and reliable protective coatings, protecting metal from corrosion, and wood from excessive wetting, rotting or destruction by various insects.

However the main problem unpainted children's swing lies in the field of psychology. Children physically need to be provided with color variety in Everyday life, so bright colors will be an excellent incentive for any baby to develop exactly the way his parents would like. Also, a painted swing will simply attract children much better in itself and, as a result, occupy their leisure time, freeing up for parents at least a little bit of much-needed free time.

In general, children's swings should be painted based on the characteristics of each specific situation. If you do not want to spoil the coating near the attractions, you need to ensure its insulation - plastic film will do an excellent job of it. In addition, painting imposes its own additional restrictions - the paint used must not contain toxins that are prohibited or dangerous to children’s health.

To achieve a bright, flashy glossy shine with rich color, you can use alkyd paints.

Child safety rules

First of all, it should be noted that the designs of swings installed on in public places, must necessarily comply with the strict established state requirements for swings according to GOST R 52167-2012. Thus, one of the main generally accepted safety standards is the absence of rigid suspensions. Moreover, it was for this reason that a large number of Soviet playgrounds were dismantled.

In general, safety factors are very diverse. Thus, security may depend on:

  • The presence of sharp corners and hard edges;
  • The quality and type of coverage around the swing;
  • Care and maintenance;
  • General wear and tear;
  • Specific type;
  • Ways to ride.

In general, for the children themselves, the rules of safe behavior are extremely simple - they should use the attractions only as provided for by their design, they should not lose vigilance and generally be in the working area of ​​the swing, regardless of whether anyone is riding on it or not. .

A few final words

Not every person has the necessary skills, a sufficient amount of time or effort, and, even more so, individual tools to take and one day make a swing for themselves and their children. Therefore, in some cases it may be more convenient, faster, simpler and more profitable to simply buy ready-made structures.

However, a swing made by yourself is much more pleasant to use. And you can spend the time spent making them with your children. We are sure that the child will definitely thank you and smile sincerely!

It is a mistaken belief that swings are used only for children's entertainment. In addition to the usual children's swings, designed for low weight, there are many original options that can be a great design solution and a favorite vacation spot for adult family members.

What material is the swing made of?

The following items can serve as material for the mechanism of this wonderful machine:

Rope. In this case, the rope will help to build something like a bungee. At the end of the rope there is a thick, smooth log that will serve as a seat;

Tree. This material is universal and fits into any style of the site. It is impossible not to mention the low cost and environmental friendliness of the material. However, wood is not a very durable material, and its service life can be extended with the help of special impregnations;

Metal. Durable structures look extremely original, but creating metal structures requires additional skills in welding and forging. Such models can be welded and forged, in shape - collapsible, stationary and mobile;

Plastic. In order to create a children's country swing made of plastic, it is enough to purchase a ready-made plastic swing, pass a rope through special holes and hang it. Such models are not expensive, look attractive and do not require additional care.

However, such models do not fit into every interior; for example, they can disrupt the harmonious rural or vintage landscape.

Where to place a swing in the country house?

When considering the location of the structure, it is necessary to take into account the characteristics of the site and its stylization. These factors influence the design, type and design of the swing.

Most often, structures are placed on children's playgrounds and recreation areas.

Hanging swings look good on the terrace and are among the top dacha design ideas; in this case, the roof of the building will reliably protect the decorative element from aggressive natural environment. Also, the hanging mechanism can be located under the arch.

A type of swing

Before you start building a swing, you need to determine some points:

Purpose: fun for kids, relaxation for adults, or both. Children's swings are the best option for entertainment in the country.

Dimensions. Size needs to be taken into account personal plot when determining the dimensions of the future swing.

Seasonality. Swings made from some materials cannot be left to spend the winter outdoors.

It is very important to choose the appearance of the structure so that it effectively emphasizes. Swings can be either portable or stationary. Portable models have a collapsible design that is installed on the ground or suspended. The design can be both traditional and unusual.

Let's look at the simplest options that you can do yourself:

Tire swing

The simplest option is a tire tied with a rope. You can also use a chain and secure it with screws. Another option involves a horizontal tire arrangement. It is necessary to cut several holes in the tire (at least 3), insert metal hooks into them and thread chains or ropes.

For jacks of all trades, you can offer the option of a swing made from a ready-made template (can be found on the Internet). A swing seat in the shape of a bird or animal is cut out of a tire and hung on ropes or chains.

Pay special attention to fixing the swing elements to avoid injury during operation.

Wooden swing

A wooden swing for a summer house is a classic model. It is made from wooden board and strong rope. It is enough to drill four holes in the corners of a wide board and secure the ropes in them.

You can also use an old high chair as a seat. You just need to saw off the legs and hang it on ropes by the back and seat.

Swing made from a hoop

It is necessary to braid a metal hoop with a strong rope so that a cobweb appears in the center. It will serve as a seat. To install the swing, you can use a strong rope or other suitable fasteners. Such a seat must be suspended at at least four points.

Swing made of durable fabrics

Another option for a safe hanging swing for a summer house. For the seat, you can use a tarpaulin or other fairly durable material. The fabric is folded in several layers and stitched around.

The ropes can be attached to the seat using iron triangles and rivets. All that remains is to hang the swing from a support (beam, branch, etc.)

Wooden swing on supports

This is perhaps the most interesting and convenient option a swing for decorating a personal plot, but nevertheless difficult to make. Consider the algorithm of actions in detail.

To make it you will need:

  • strong rope;
  • boards;
  • material for making the seat (picket fence or plywood);
  • fastener

For this type of swing, it is best to use bolts made of galvanized material. Nails and screws are not the best option in this case.

To protect the wood from damage and to preserve its natural appearance, all wooden parts of the structure must be treated with a special antiseptic.

The finished swing is installed on a support with a transverse beam, for the manufacture of which it is necessary to use a wooden beam.

The ends of the posts that are dug into the ground must be treated with bitumen. To install them, it is enough to prepare a couple of holes at least 1 meter deep. The supports are covered with sand or crushed stone to a depth of about 30 centimeters, and then filled with cement.

If possible, you can make special concrete pillars and attach wooden supports to them. When choosing the second method, waterproofing material must be laid at the junction of wood and concrete. For greater stability of the structure, it is necessary to support the racks with slanted strips.

Step-by-step instructions for making a wooden swing

Now let's look at the detailed instructions for making the swing itself:

  1. We prepare the supporting arcs. For this we need 22 mm boards and 12 mm plywood. We prepare a template and cut out 6 arcs.
  2. Next, we make the core from wood. To do this, we outline the plywood blanks. On the outer parts of the arches it is necessary to make holes for fastening the ropes.
  3. Using waterproof glue, we connect the parts of the support. We clamp the supports in a vice and leave them for completely dry glue.
  4. Using a grinding machine, we process the edges of the product, giving them a rounded shape.
  5. It is necessary to cut circles from a wooden board for the rope holders. It is best to do this with a special attachment on a drill.
  6. We coat the manufactured parts with a primer or special paint.
  7. We connect the supports and round elements with metal rings, into which we then thread a rope and cover the element acrylic paint.
  8. Let's start making the seat itself. The picket fence needs to be leveled.
  9. Now we will drill holes for fasteners in each board. In order to carefully make holes, you can attach a corner of plywood with ready-made holes to each plank.
  10. Next, we attach the picket fence to the supports. In order for the distance between the planks to be the same, you can place identical planks between them.
  11. We attach armrests made of picket fence to the seat. We screw the metal fasteners into the ends of the slats, and install a wooden circle between the support and the armrest.
  12. We pass a strong rope through the rings and tie a strong knot. For greater strength, we wrap wire or strong rope around the knot. Cut off the free edge of the rope with a sharp knife.
  13. We pass the rope through the hole in the armrest and attach it to the lower corners of the seats in a similar way. We rest the armrest itself on blocks mounted on a rope.
  14. All that remains is to hang the swing from the support using a reliable carabiner and your swing is ready, you can test it and enjoy your relaxation.

Features of care

Swings, like other landscape elements, require constant maintenance. Try to avoid getting the swing wet. To do this, it is necessary to periodically impregnate the wood with special solutions, varnish or paint.

If you are the owner of rattan, avoid exposing the swing to sunlight or rain, and care may consist of treating the structure with a damp cloth. Owners of metal swings need to periodically restore the decorative layer of the model.

A swing in a country house can become not only a stunning element of the interior, but also a joy for both children and adults. You can create a structure yourself that will bring joy to the whole family and comfort on the site. In addition, creating a model yourself will help you improve your welding skills.

Photo selection of beautiful country swings

In this case, it is important to ensure the convenience and safety of the design. To do this, prepare railings and fences. These devices will ensure the safety of the child, who may become overplayed and lose attention while playing. Do not forget that all materials must be environmentally friendly, and the use of flammable items is unacceptable. Wooden models are most relevant, since in the hot season the metal gets very hot, which can harm the child.

Why do you need to paint a swing?

Painting is necessary to protect the wood from the aggressive action of external factors. Thus, the structure must be treated with weather-resistant paint from time to time. We also must not forget about the aesthetic component of painting the material: the design can not only fit well into the stylization of the site, but also become a real decoration of it. To do this, don't be afraid to experiment with painting: you can create beautiful patterns with paint, turning the swing into a work of art or a funny animal.

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