A dacha is a place to relax from the bustle of the city and pressing problems, and a swing will be a wonderful addition to it. The swing will appeal to both adults and children. A country swing can be a place to play with children, a center for gatherings with friends and a relaxing place for the whole family. This article will talk about the types of swings, how to choose them correctly and how to make them yourself.
Swings for the dacha can be divided into two types: garden and hanging. Garden swing consist of support posts, a seat and a canopy for protection from the sun and rain. Hanging swings have only a seat and a suspension, and require a special place for their installation.
Garden swings can be installed anywhere in the garden or on the veranda. They are portable and stationary. A portable swing can be moved around the garden and stored away for the winter. A stationary garden swing is a permanent structure that is installed once for its entire service life. Garden swings have a small swing amplitude and are intended mainly for quiet relaxation.
Fig.1.
The material for making a garden swing can be metal or wood. Metal swings are more compact and lighter weight. This type of swing is usually portable. Wooden swings are rarely made portable due to their heavy weight. However, a wooden swing will fit better into the design of any cottage. In addition, they are easier to make with your own hands, since no welding is required.
Garden swings for a summer residence can be multi-seat or single-seat.
Multi-person swings are designed for 2-4 people. They are often equipped with a canopy to provide protection from rain and sun. This swing will be a great place to relax for the whole family.
Fig.2.
Single seat garden swings are mainly designed for children and used for entertainment.
Hanging swings are mounted on a stationary fixed support or tree branch. They have a large swing amplitude. This type of swing is designed for active rest with kids.
Fig.3.
In the class of garden hanging swings there are models for a relaxing holiday, these are swing-sofas and swing-hammocks. Hanging swing sofas They are mainly installed on the veranda and attached to the floor beams. Hammock swings have less weight and can be used both on the veranda and outdoors, but in this case it is necessary to first make a support for the swing.
Fig.4.
The main thing is to understand which swing is right for you and for what purpose it will be used. For a family holiday, a multi-seat garden swing would be an excellent solution. Hanging hammock swings are well suited for individual relaxation.
When choosing a multi-seat garden swing, it is important to correctly assess how many people will use it, how often guests come, etc. It is possible that for big company A swing alone may not be enough.
Garden swings can be equipped with a canopy to protect them from rain and sun. If the swing is installed on the veranda, then a canopy is hardly necessary. On the contrary, if the swing will be installed in the garden or in an open area, for example, in front of a swimming pool, then a swing with a canopy will be a priority.
The swing can be made of wood or metal. Wooden swings will fit perfectly into the design of any garden, but they are heavy and difficult to carry. Wooden swings are usually installed once for their entire service life. Metal swings are lighter and more compact, and can be easily moved around the garden.
Fig.5.
When choosing a metal country swing, it is important to pay attention to the diameter of the pipes from which they are made; the thicker the pipe, the stronger, more reliable and stable the swing will be. To make a swing, a pipe with a diameter of 30 to 60 mm is used. Such swings can withstand weight up to 300 kg, while their own weight does not exceed 100 kg. These characteristics must be clarified with the seller. The more massive the swing, the more stable and comfortable it is, but the more difficult it is to carry.
When choosing a swing, it’s a good idea to think about the installation location. If the swing has straight shapes of the load-bearing support, then for this swing it is necessary level base. Curvilinear supports can be placed stably both on a level surface and on the grass in the depths of the garden.
When choosing a swing, don’t forget to ask your friends; most likely, someone has already purchased a swing and can tell you about the advantages and disadvantages of specific models and give practical advice.
For active holidays with children best choice there will be hanging swings. They will bring a lot of bright emotions to both children and adults.
Children's hanging swings are inexpensive, and the choice is huge. If you want to create an individual style suburban area, then it’s easy to make a hanging swing with your own hands from scrap materials.
Fig.6.
When purchasing a hanging swing, you should remember that it is safe to use, especially by small children. The swing should have seat belts for the youngest and restraints for middle-aged children. When choosing a swing, you need to pay attention to the permissible weight. It should be no less than the weight of the child.
The supports for installing the swing must be stable and easily support the weight of the swing with the child.
The easiest hanging swing to make is a swing made from a board. This type of swing is perfect for middle-aged and older children and adults.
A board swing consists of a seat and a suspension. A board 40-50 cm long, 15 cm wide and 3-4 cm thick is well suited for the seat. All burrs must be removed from the board and the edges smoothed. Holes are drilled in the corners of the board to secure the suspension.
Fig.7.
A thick rope or rope is perfect for hanging. The simplest and reliable way attaching the seat to the suspension - thread the rope through the hole in the board and secure it with a knot.
If the swing is intended for adults, then a metal cable or chain can be used as a suspension. In this case, it is convenient to use an eye bolt to attach the suspension to the seat.
Fig.8.
Another popular option for hanging swings is the tire swing. To make a swing you will need an old car tire. The tire is secured to the suspension at 3-4 points using an eye bolt or bracket. You can use a rope or chain as a suspension.
Fig.9.
You can use not a whole tire, but cut something like a seat out of it. The simplest option is a seat in the form of a basket. But in reality there are many options and they are limited only by the imagination.
Fig. 10.
An equally simple and interesting option for a hanging swing is a swing made from old chairs. To make a swing you will need a chair. The legs of the chair are sawed off and secured to the hangers.
Fig. 11.
When making a swing from a chair/armchair, it is important to make sure that the seat is securely attached to the suspensions. Sometimes it may be necessary additional elements to strengthen the structure.
Fig. 12.
An interesting swing can be made from an old skateboard. It will be a boat-type swing. You can swing on them while standing.
Fig. 13.
Hanging swings for the dacha can be made from almost any materials that can be found in the dacha. Don't be afraid to experiment. It is only important that the swing is safe and easy to use.
Almost any support can be used for a hanging swing. The main thing is that it is reliable, durable and can withstand the weight of the swing. A tree branch, a special portable support, stationary wooden or metal, or floor beams can be used as a support if the swing is installed on a covered veranda.
For small children, it is most rational to use a mobile metal support. It can be purchased together with the swing. Its cost is not high, and there will be no problems during installation and operation.
Fig. 14.
Swings for middle-aged children and adults require stronger support. For a swing of this type, in the absence of durable and big tree nearby, you will need to make a stationary support. The simplest is the U-shaped support. It consists of two pillars rigidly fixed into the ground and a crossbar to which the hanging swing is attached. The support can be made from wooden beams or from a metal pipe.
Fig. 15.
To securely fasten the support, two holes 1 m deep are made in the ground; it is convenient to use a garden drill for this purpose. A layer of crushed stone 20 cm thick is poured onto the bottom of the pit. The space between the walls of the pit and the support is filled with cement-sand mortar made in a ratio of 1:3. After a week, the solution will harden and the support will be ready for use.
Hanging swings must be secured to the support using eye bolts. This is the simplest and most reliable method that will provide a high swing amplitude. It is suitable for both wooden supports, and for metal ones.
Fig. 16.
If the swing is installed on the veranda, then it can easily be secured to the floor beam or roof rafter using eye bolts.
Fig. 17.
Swings for relaxation include garden swings in the form of a sofa for family relaxation and hanging hammock swings for private relaxation.
Garden swings are perfect for gatherings with friends and for relaxing with the whole family. A garden swing-sofa can be placed anywhere in the garden or in an open area, but in this case it must be equipped with a canopy to protect it from the sun and rain.
A hanging hammock swing will become a favorite place for those who love privacy. They can be installed on the veranda or in the garden, in which case you will have to purchase or make a support for hanging.
Garden swings are the most popular. They are the most versatile and suitable for both family gatherings and private relaxation. A garden swing consists of a support, a sofa and a canopy. All elements of the swing are made of wood.
Fig. 18.
To make a wooden swing for a summer house, you will need a drill, a wood saw, wood glue (moisture-resistant PVA glue), a plane, and a set of wood drills.
It is advisable to make garden swings from well-dried wood. So dry wood does not shrink and will not lose shape. Drying lumber is very easy. In the summer, it is enough to place them outdoors for two weeks. It is advisable to dry the wood in the shade under shelter from the rain.
When making a garden swing, it is important not to forget to treat the wood with an antiseptic and cover it with a protective varnish or paint, and the varnish must be resistant to moisture and sunlight. Yacht varnish is perfect.
A stationary support for a country swing is the simplest and most economical to manufacture. It consists of two pillars fixed in the ground to a depth of 1 m. For support, you will need two beams with a cross-section of 100x100 mm and a length of 3 m.
Fig. 19.
To install the support for the swing, two holes are dug in the ground, 1.2-1.5 m deep and 30-40 cm in diameter. It is convenient to use a garden drill for this purpose. A layer of crushed stone 20–50 cm thick is poured onto the bottom of the pit and compacted. A section of wooden beam 1 m long on the side that will be underground is coated with bitumen mastic and wrapped in roofing material to protect it from rotting. After that, the supports are installed in the pit and filled with cement mortar. Cement mortar is made in a ratio of 1:3 (cement: sand). After a week, the solution will gain strength and you can hang the swing.
The disadvantage of a stationary support for a swing is the inability to move the swing around the site and put it away for the winter. For this reason, preference is often given to a portable type of swing.
The most popular portable support design for a country swing is two pairs of beams with a cross-section of 80x80 mm, installed at an angle and connected to each other. In this case, the swing is not fixed to the ground.
Fig.20.
The beams are connected to each other in half a tree at an angle of 40-45 degrees. To increase the rigidity of the swing, a side crossbar is installed. The supports are connected to each other by the upper horizontal crossbar (crossbar) and the lower one at the back of the swing. The swing seat is attached to the crossbar.
When assembling supports for swings, it is advisable to use not self-tapping screws, but an adhesive joint secured with bolts. This connection method is more durable and reliable, and the swing will last a very long time.
Another support option for portable swings is supports made of four vertical bars. In this case, you get something like a gazebo in which a swing is suspended. This design will be heavier than the previous one and moving it around the site will be very difficult.
Fig.21.
An interesting solution for swing supports is shown in the photo below. Thanks to this shape of the supports, the side posts do not block the view and the swing looks more open.
Fig.22.
It is advisable to equip a garden swing installed outdoors with a canopy that will protect you from the scorching heat and rain.
The canopy consists of a frame and decking. The frame is made of wood. Any roofing materials, polybicarbonate or fabric can be used as flooring.
The frame is usually made single-pitch and gable. Single-pitch frame often used in conjunction with fabric flooring. The result is a light, elegant design that provides excellent protection from the sun and somewhat less protection from rain. The fabric canopy must be removed for the winter. The gable roof of a garden swing is used on swings that are not removed for the winter. Bituminous shingles are used as flooring.
A lean-to canopy is the easiest to make. The frame is assembled from bars with a cross-section of 20x30 or 30x40 mm, and it is fixed to the swing supports at an angle of 10-20 degrees. The fabric is stretched over the frame.
Fig.23.
A gable canopy is made by analogy with gable roof. The angle of inclination of a gable canopy is usually chosen in the range of 10-20 degrees. The swing is installed on the supports and crossbar (the beam from which the swing is suspended) rafter system from bars or boards. Lathing is attached to the rafters if sheet flooring is planned, or plywood if flexible tiles are planned.
Fig.24.
You should not use corrugated sheets or sheet iron for flooring; it gets very hot in the sun and it will not be comfortable to relax on a garden swing.
The seat for a garden swing is made in the shape of a bench, only without legs. Dry planed lumber is used to make the seat. You will need a block with a cross section of 30x50 mm for the frame and bars or boards 20 mm thick for the seat itself.
First, the frame is made. To do this, connect the bars at an angle of approximately 100-110 degrees. The best option is to fasten the bars into half a tree using wood glue and bolts. After the glue has dried, bars are attached to the frame, which will serve as a seat; they can be secured with self-tapping screws.
Fig.25.
The finished garden swing seat must be hung on the frame. A rope or chain can be used for suspension. Preference should be given to the chain as it is more durable and will not fray during operation.
To hang the seat on the crossbar, you need to install two eye bolts or brackets. The swing seat also requires two eye bolts on each side of the seat. One eye bolt is attached to the seat, and the second in the middle of the backrest. This arrangement of the fastenings does not allow the seat to tip over during rocking.
Fig.26.
Chains are attached to the fixed eye bolts using carabiners. The length of the chains is selected based on the required seat height and inclination. It is convenient to use chains that are slightly longer than required. By attaching a carabiner to different links, you can change the height and angle of the swing seat.
An ergonomic version of the seat for a garden swing can be made from plywood. Plywood with a thickness of 20 - 30 mm is used to make the frame. The seat bars are attached to the frame.
Fig.27.
One of the most simple options making a seat for a swing is using an old garden or home furniture. Suitable for garden swing seat old light sofa or chair, rattan furniture, light garden bench.
Fig.28.
A seat for a garden swing can be made from pallets left over from building a house. To do this, you need to cut the pallet into two parts and connect them together at a slight angle.
Fig.29.
When making a swing seat, it is important not to forget about safety. It is advisable to glue all joints of the seat parts with wood glue or moisture-resistant PVA glue. Before final installation of the seat, it must be protected from moisture using varnish, paint or antiseptic. You can increase the comfort of the swing by using foam mattresses and pillows.
Garden swings made of metal can be made in a wide variety of shapes due to the strength of the material and the ability to give it almost any shape. However, it is impossible to make unusual garden swings without special bending and welding equipment. However, if you own a welding machine, then you can easily make a simple but very reliable swing.
Fig.30.
Metal swings can be hanging and garden, portable or stationary. Thanks to the strength of metal, swings can be made quite light and at the same time durable - this is their main advantage.
With your own hands, it’s easy enough to make two versions of a swing support: stationary and portable. Both options are suitable for hanging and garden swings.
It is convenient to make a stationary support for a swing from a pipe with a diameter of 50 mm. Two pipes are fixed in the ground using cement-sand mortar. A crossbar from a pipe of the same diameter is welded to the top of the pipes. Two brackets are welded to the crossbar for hanging the swing.
Fig.31.
It is convenient to make portable metal swings from square or rectangular pipes. The design of such a swing consists of two triangular posts connected to each other by a crossbar and a crossbar located in the lower rear part of the swing. Brackets for hanging the swing are welded to the crossbar.
Fig.32.
The frame of the canopy is made of pipe square section 20x20 mm. Colored polybicarbonate is used as a roofing material for metal swings. This gives the swing an interesting appearance.
A seat for a metal swing can be made similarly to a seat for a wooden swing, or it can have a metal frame.
For the metal frame, a square pipe of 20x20 mm is used. The frame is made of two pieces of pipe, welded at an angle of 100-110 degrees. Ears are welded to the frame, to which the chain will be attached. One eye is welded to the seat, the second to the back.
TO metal frame secure wooden blocks, which serve as the basis of the seat and backrest.
Fig.33.
When making metal swings, it is important not to forget to protect the metal from corrosion. To do this, you first need to remove all possible pockets of corrosion that are present on the metal, then degrease the surface with a solvent and apply a primer to the metal. The final stage- This is the coloring of the swing.
The wooden elements of the swing must be coated with a wood antiseptic.
Regardless of whether you are planning to purchase or make a swing with your own hands, for children or for recreation, you are moving on the right path. Swing on summer cottage truly an irreplaceable thing. Children will definitely like this hanging swing. Garden swings are more suitable for the older generation. A swing at the dacha will definitely become a center of entertainment and a gathering place for the whole family.
Swinging on a swing is a favorite pastime not only for children, but also for many adults. They relax, calm and bring the nerves into complete order. Currently, it is not difficult to purchase a ready-made design in a store. But it’s much more pleasant to make a swing with your own hands. The material can be wood or metal. Of course, you will need drawings. Use ready-made ones or create your own. Step-by-step instructions with photos and videos will tell you how to properly make a garden swing with your own hands in the country with little investment of money and labor.
The choice of materials for making garden swings is not so diverse and is limited to plastic, metal and wood. Two latest options are more popular. Therefore, let's consider positive sides designs from them.
The main advantage of garden metal swings is their durability and long-term operation. It is worth noting that metal structures can be forged, welded or collapsible. Each of the options will fit perfectly into general style summer cottage plot.
Advantages of wooden structures:
The last two points are most relevant to those who have small children. Environmental friendliness and non-invasiveness are the main criteria that parents should pay attention to.
All swings can be divided into several groups according to the principle of purpose:
The requirements for children's swings are always higher. So, they come with or without a frame. Those designs that have only a seat and suspension are called frameless. They are quite easy to install and remove. The main disadvantage of swings is the increased degree of injury and low level of comfort. Frame swings are much more comfortable.
Attention! One of important conditions installation of swings for children - reliable fixation of the support.
Such a swing looks like a bench suspended from a frame. The frames are A- or U-shaped, and the side pillars are dug into the ground at least 0.5 m, filled with cement mortar. Such structures are very stable and have good strength. They can accommodate several people at once. That's why they got that name.
The main difference between swings and others is that they have some advantages. They can be disassembled and reassembled.
What is the drawing for? As with any design, this initial project, in which everything is calculated down to the smallest detail. To correctly draw up a drawing, you will need to calculate all the parameters of the swing and the amount of material required. So, to make a family-type garden swing for a summer cottage, you will have to proceed from the following parameters:
Attention! With strong swinging vibrations, the seat may move in different sides and hit the supports. This is traumatic and very dangerous. Therefore, take this point into account when drawing up the drawing.
Making a garden swing yourself is an interesting and not as difficult process as it might seem. We present to your attention step by step instructions with a photo of making a wooden swing with an A-frame.
Choosing a location is the first and very important step. You cannot install a swing in a place you just like. You should choose a surface with a perfectly smooth topography. This will simplify the installation process. In addition, it is better to choose a place for installation away from prying eyes. Then it will bring peace and satisfaction.
Advice. There should be no obstructions in front or behind the swing. Such as trees, a fence or the wall of a house.
For wooden structure you will need timber good quality, without cracks and knots. Oak, birch, spruce or cedar are quite suitable. For the frame base you will need:
For the bench you will also need:
As for construction tools, to make a garden swing, keep in your inventory the following necessary items:
Well preparatory work completed, it’s time to start making a home-type swing.
Advice. The base of the side pillars should be no less than 0.5 m wider than the seat.
To make a comfortable seat, you will need to make two frames with dimensions of 20 * 5 cm. And one more (back) - 20 * 6.5 cm.
Attention! Armrests can be installed if desired.
Almost all the work has been completed and there is very little time left before your site will be decorated with an eco-friendly and comfortable wooden swing.
Attention! The angle of inclination of the side posts should be only 90 degrees. Pay attention to the depth. The supports should be dug to the same length.
Garden swings are a great option for relaxation in the country. It’s especially nice when they are made by hand. Making them will take a little time, but you can enjoy the result every day!
Reading time ≈ 10 minutes
How nice it is to sit on a bench after a long day at work. And it’s even more pleasant to relax on a garden swing, which will give you gentle rocking and soothing coolness. Unfortunately, it is not always possible to buy such a design. After all, the cost of such swings is high, often exorbitant. Therefore, let's talk about how to build gardens to enjoy a pleasant stay in the fresh air.
Beautiful garden swing in the country
At the dacha or in the yard country house garden swing is an indispensable attribute landscape design. In addition to being a great place to relax, they serve many functions:
As you can see, the advantages are really huge. Therefore, it is logical that their popularity is so high among the population. The design, in fact, is not very complicated, so even a beginner in construction can build such a swing at home.
Another advantage of building your own is that it will fully comply with your wishes. You can decorate it yourself or decorate it, choose special form and size. The main thing is to follow the instructions during construction, then everything will definitely work out.
Before you start making a garden swing, you need to consider what they are. For example, for purpose:
Depending on the location there are:
If we talk about the main materials used, the swings are:
The design can also be very different.
This option is simple. All that is needed to create such a swing is a crossbar, a high-strength rope and a seat (it is better to choose one with a backrest).
Hanging garden swing
Often used for children. They are strong and stable and easy to move. So at any time you can move the swing to the shade or another place you like.
Frame garden swing
Crafting on a tree requires crafting a seat. Everything else is as simple as shelling pears. After all, making a frame in in this case no need. After constructing the structure, it must be secured to a tree (make sure that the branch you use is strong) or a beam. For fastening, a cross-stranded rope with a diameter of at least 24 mm is suitable (especially for swings on which children will ride).
You can replace the rope with a chain suspension. This will make the entire structure much stronger. To prevent the chain links from harming children (fingers can get caught in the links), you need to place it in suitable size plastic pipes. As an option, you can take a chain canopy with a small caliber. It is worth noting that to install a frame garden swing, you should choose the right place on the site, avoiding trees and various types of fences.
The swing support is not just a structural element, but its main component. The safety of being on the swing and the permissible amount of swinging will depend on its strength. Most often, the material used to make the support is wooden beams, metal pipes and corners. For a summer house, a support in the shape of the letter A is often sufficient. For this, a frame is built from two supporting elements. They are connected to each other by a transverse beam, which is installed horizontally. Its placement occurs at the level of one third of the column above ground level.
The crossbar itself, on which the seat is then hung, must be mounted to the racks, which are located vertically. Use bolts for fastening.
Important: metal swings must be fixed in the soil. Because in the process of swinging, the “leg” of the pipes becomes loose and turns out of the ground. To prevent this, support frames are created. As an alternative, concreting can be done in the trench.
But to secure the wooden structure more firmly, you need to bury the “legs” of the garden swing to a considerable depth (at least one meter). You can also fill it with concrete mortar. But before concreting it is necessary to carry out preparatory work. Apply to the support bitumen mastic so that the “legs” are well soaked. This will protect the wood from rotting processes. Bricks are laid at the bottom of the pit.
Video: DIY metal garden swing
Metal is a durable material and is heavy enough to ensure that the entire structure of the garden swing is strong and stable. This choice is ideal for building a swing that teenagers and adults will ride on. Also metal base will be more wear-resistant to heavy loads.
Metal garden swing
Be sure to use a drawing to ensure the entire installation is completed correctly. Therefore, further presented step-by-step instruction so that you can build a garden swing with your own hands from metal (drawings and dimensions, photos will be given below) in your dacha. Of course, options are selected individually. And in the photo we show only one of the possible ones.
Drawing of a garden swing made of metal
The construction of this installation begins with the preparation of materials:
Ready-made garden swing made of metal
If you feel that this option is not within your power, then you can stop at a simpler copy of it. In this case, you need to stock up on a regular metal profile (diameter 50 mm).
Drawing of a simple model of a metal swing
Attach special metal brackets to the drain (transversely). To do this, use bearings and a welding machine.
Install the seat on the hangers and attach it to the structure itself. Most often you can find metal rods or chains as suspensions.
A simple version of a metal swing
The creation of exclusive models looks original and attracts the attention of others. It can be Forged Products or a swing made from channels, or rather from their scraps. Self-made swing benches look interesting.
Wrought iron garden swing
They are especially popular. After all, wood is always popular as a building material. Building a garden swing with your own hands from wood is as easy as from metal. Drawings and dimensions, photos from the Internet will help you. You just need to use suitable projects, then you will get the perfect result, and the photo of your homework is proof of this.
DIY wooden garden swing
Such designs have their advantages:
Drawing of a garden swing made of wood
The most suitable tree species are birch, spruce or pine. For construction you will need:
If you have a wooden beam, then excellent option there will be a swing on four pillars. But this design requires some attention and effort.
Beautiful garden swing
The process of building a swing for children is similar to the construction of an adult version. Need detailed diagram structures, drawing dimensions and locations of elements for fastening. When using drawings for adults, be sure to optimize it for children.
Children's swing
Your dacha will sparkle with new colors when such a swing made by on our own. It is not only useful, but also incredibly beautiful.
Exist various systems fastenings for garden swings, namely:
Therefore, carefully study the features of each system. After all right choice fasteners allows you to make the swing not only durable, but also reliable.
The most classic models are rope and log swings. This option is considered the easiest to manufacture. To implement such an idea, you will only need to make four holes. Use a wide log as a base. You need to thread a rope into the holes made.
Rope garden swing
Using the same ropes, you need to put on the seat board. But you need to be careful. This option is not entirely sustainable. To prevent the seat from flipping over, make four holes on the side and thread ropes through them.
The ends of the rope must be tightened well and tied with strong knots. And the swing is ready to use.
Today, DIY garden swings make a chic and unforgettable impression. You just need a little patience and attention. What kind of swing will it be? Metal frame or wood mobile? It's up to you to decide, but the swing should definitely be fun. And see all the most interesting things about building a garden swing yourself in the video that you will find below.
Video: wooden swing
Separately, it is worth noting the division of structures according to the material of their manufacture. Garden swings made of metal are becoming increasingly popular, since despite the relative lightness of the swing, the durability of its service is ensured by the strength of the material. In addition, metal does not require special care.
There are also designs made of plastic. Their advantage is low price and ease of installation. However, this option can only be purchased to ensure children's rest preschool age, since the tensile strength of plastic is quite low.
The classic option is a garden swing made of wood. The tree fits perfectly into the decor of any garden plot. Depending on the complexity of the design and the high cost of the breed, the swing can be either the simplest or the premium class.
If the owner of a summer cottage, when visiting a store garden furniture he didn’t come across a sale on a swing, most likely, without a discount and the opportunity to buy this structure inexpensively, he will have a desire to build it himself. For such situations, it is important to know the algorithm of actions and the list of necessary tools.
Roughly speaking, the entire process of constructing a garden swing on a site can be divided into three main stages. These include:
Let us consider in detail the listed stages using the example of the process of constructing a swing-bench on an A-frame for the whole family.
The installation process will change depending on the choice of one or another type of garden swing. Therefore, before proceeding to the next steps, it is worth reading reviews about different models and types of construction, as well as studying photos and drawings on the Internet in order to be able to assess your strengths.
After the choice of model has been made, it is important to think in advance and prepare the place where the structure will be placed. It is desirable that this be a site located in a recreation area, if there is one. Shade of trees open area, freed from thorny bushes, and the presence of flowers will only come in handy.
For the construction of a wooden swing-bench on garden plot, you will need an extensive list of tools. As a rule, when the owner of a site decides to independent work for the installation of the structure, he has most of the tools. The general list of necessary purchases will look like:
When the location of the garden swing has been selected and cleared, and all the necessary tools and materials have been purchased, you can begin the actual construction. First of all, the preparation is carried out required quantity details. So, from boards with parameters 10 cm x 2.5 cm x 250 cm, planks one and a half meters long are sawn off for the future bench. For a seat half a meter wide, 5-6 boards will be enough, for a backrest 4-5.
A wide board 15 cm x 5 cm x 300 cm is sawn into 6 equal parts, which will serve as crossbars for fastening the boards of the back (3 pieces) and seat (3 pieces) of the bench. The transverse boards are connected to each other with self-tapping screws at an angle that should be at the bench (120°). Then, the boards of the bench itself are attached to the resulting base. To avoid damaging the wood, it is better to pre-drill holes for self-tapping screws with a drill.
Lastly, the armrests are installed, which are made from timber with a diameter of 4-5 cm and scraps from the board.
The width of the planned bench is 50 cm, and the length is 150 cm. If desired, these indicators can be changed in any direction, the main thing is to correctly calculate the load.
After making the bench, a frame for the swing is installed, the width of which, according to construction standards, must exceed the width of the bench by at least half a meter. Therefore, at a distance of a meter from each other, recesses are dug or drilled under the support beams on each side. The depth of the pits should be at least a meter, where 30% of the space will be occupied by a crushed stone base, and the remaining 70% by frame beams.
The beams are installed in the recesses and connected at an angle in the middle of the section. A crossbar is installed between pairs of beams. To secure the strength of the structure, corners are installed in the corners of the connection of the crossbar with the supports, and at a distance of 25 cm from the top and 30 cm from the bottom of the A-frame, screeding with boards is carried out.
Once the frame is installed and adjusted using a spirit level, you can begin installing the bench. To do this, a chain is secured to the base of the armrest and the frame of the bench on both sides using eye bolts.
Before fastening to the bench, the chain sections are threaded into rings. Then, the entire structure is attached to the crossbar with galvanized screws.
The final stage of installing a garden swing on a summer cottage is checking the strength of all connections and decorative design. If desired, you can build an awning on the top of the frame, which will protect vacationers from both the scorching summer sun and precipitation.
It is also worth paying attention to protecting wood from exposure external factors. Therefore, the entire structure must be treated with impregnation against insect pests, and then covered with varnish or paint intended for external work.
A properly installed garden swing will last for many years. And constructing them yourself will help save a significant amount of money.
Who hasn’t dreamed of sitting on a swing in your own garden, swaying dreamily and looking at the cloudless sky or the stars? But it’s so easy to arrange, you just need to want it. Beautiful and modern, located in the garden or on the lawn, in addition to convenience, they also diversify the landscape. In this article we will talk about how to make a children's swing at the dacha with your own hands from metal and wood, and also show drawings, photos and video materials.
Of course, today's market offers many options finished products. However, if desired, the swing can be made of any kind, for example, a children's swing, designed for light weight, including for infants. They can be as wide as a sofa, of any shape, for the whole family to relax. They can be built from metal, wood, or, in general, any auxiliary material.
Before building a swing, you need to determine for yourself its type, whether it will be used only by children or designed for the whole family. The design of their support and the type of seat will depend on this.
A swing for children should not only be comfortable, but also have especially strong and reliable fastenings.
If they are intended for a relaxing holiday, then they must meet maximum comfort, but at the same time, withstand quite a lot of weight. Ah, choosing suitable material, you can focus solely on your taste, since both metal and wood are equally durable. Various combinations of these materials are quite suitable, plastic or plastic parts, twisted ropes, cables and metal chains are also used. These elements are designed to lighten the design and make it more elegant.
The most simple swings, familiar to everyone since childhood, are well-polished planks that are attached to a stand on ropes or cables (sometimes simply to a thick tree branch). Of course, fastening to racks is more reliable and lasts much longer. To install such a metal rack, it is best to take three pipes with a diameter of 100-120 millimeters. Two pipes will play the role of racks, and the third can be used as a crossbar on which the swing is suspended. This structure can be made from wooden beams with a thickness of 100×100 mm. However, such simplest design Suitable only for swinging children, given their low weight.
If the swing is intended for children, then it is made with a back and a fixing bar in front.
To build a simple garden swing for a summer residence, which is suitable for relaxation for the whole family, you need to make a more stable support. Typically, four support pillars are used for this. They are dug into the ground to a depth of about one meter (at least 80 cm) and concreted. When using metal structures, all cut edges must be carefully sanded using a sander, otherwise you may be injured by the edges. The connections between the posts and the crossbar are connected by welding (so a welding machine is required).
If wooden posts are used for posts, before burying them in the ground, it is necessary to treat the posts with antiseptic agents.
And to connect the racks to the wooden crossbar, bolts and nuts or self-tapping screws are used. A horizontal beam is attached to the top of the resulting structure (made of any material).
First of all, in order to get a seat, you need to make two frames. One frame will be the seat itself, and the second is intended for the backrest. Plywood is attached to both frames. Connect the back and seat with corners (usually at an angle of 120 degrees). It is not recommended to connect at right angles: it is less comfortable for sitting, much less for relaxing. To make armrests (optional), you need to install the bars at right angles.
After the racks are installed and the seat is made, you can begin hanging it from top crossbar. To do this, you need to attach strong hooks or special reliable brackets to it. A cable, ropes or chains are pulled through the resulting hole. In this case, you need to choose the correct seat height. To do this, preliminary measurements are taken - the legs of a sitting person should touch the ground with their toes.
Of course, if you build a swing at the dacha in this way, then it will be hard, and it is unlikely that we can talk about proper rest. In order to sit comfortably on the seat, you can purchase or sew special pads yourself. For longer service life, they can be dressed in waterproof polyethylene covers. And if you put a garden awning on the same posts, you can enjoy relaxing in the garden in any weather.
The seat made of two small logs (diameter about 85 millimeters, length 700 millimeters, the distance between the ropes with which they are fastened is 500 millimeters) looks very original. Ropes are stretched between the logs, they are wrapped around each of them, released again and tightened into three strong knots. This type of swing is suitable for any mounting, but it is designed for only one person.
The flexible seat looks unusual in its own way. In order to make it, it is necessary to attach one special carabiner to each side of the belt of such a seat. These carabiners are also tied to ropes with strong triple knots. Thanks to this, the seat can be easily removed.
We suggest considering making a swing that several children can sit on at the same time. If necessary, you can reduce or increase its size. Birch, spruce or pine are perfect for making. To work with this material you will need the following set of building materials:
As for tools, you will need:
When purchasing self-tapping screws, pay attention to their color. It is better if they have a contrasting shade or wood color. If you purchase contrasting screws, this will give the swing an impressive look.
So, when you have everything ready, you can get to work. To begin with, it would be a good idea to prepare a drawing of the future structure. By following the plan, it will be easier to complete the job accurately.
If you have not yet decided on the type of swing, then at the end of this article there are many diagrams and drawings that will help you bring your ideas to life. However, the designs for both children and adults are different.
By following the instructions below, you will be able to complete all the work without the involvement of specialists:
It is best to secure the assembled swing benches on an A-shaped post. Strong logs should be used as support.
Now let’s look at an example of making a stand that resembles the shape of the letter “A”. This rack is quite reliable, and using strong logs, you can hang a seat of any shape, size and material. To work you will need the same set construction tools, as for making a seat. The work process consists of the following stages:
The structure itself is installed directly into the ground. It is enough to dig a hole up to 80 cm deep. At the bottom you make a 20 cm cushion of crushed stone, insert the posts and fill them with concrete. To prevent wood studs from rotting in concrete, they can be insulated or treated special means against rotting.
If the swing will be primarily used by children, then take care of their maximum safety. All sharp corners eliminate it and that's it wooden elements sand well. Although this rule is important for swings of any purpose that are made of wood.
Unlike a wooden structure, a metal swing is more difficult to manufacture. After all, there is no way to do this without a welding machine. So, you will need a tool like this:
We will look at one of simple types metal swings, the manufacture of which does not require much skill from you. First prepare 4 pieces of pipe, each 4 m long. In pairs, cut each end of the pipes at an angle of 28–35°. When comparing, both angles between the pipes must be equal. As for further work, there are 2 directions:
As practice shows, additional load is unlikely to cause the pipe to burst. The structure will come out of the ground faster. So consider whether it's worth the time to invest in a complex support beam with a reinforced bar.
To make a beam, you will need the following set of tools and materials:
To attach the beam, you will need to make holes in the top seam of the triangular structure for a smaller pipe diameter. Use a grinder for this job. It is very important to ensure that the seam is not damaged after making the hole. If you find microcracks, make marks with chalk and, when installing the beam, weld the seam again.
A smaller diameter pipe is used as a beam, unlike racks. A reinforcing rod of the appropriate diameter is threaded inside. Even with high loads, such a structure will not burst, but at most will bend.
Next, weld 2 metal rings onto the beam. They are necessary in order to limit the horizontal movement of the chain. Between these rings a circle with free movement made of light sheet steel is mounted. Top part The rings should be 2.5–3 cm higher in relation to the level of the beam. Weld another partition on top. The result is a kind of tunnel. The final touch will be to install the finished beam into the holes made, after which the workpiece is securely welded.
One of the last stages in the construction of a metal swing is the manufacture of a cradle. To do this you will need the following set of tools and materials:
The size of the cradle can be different - single or double. There can also be several cradles on the beam, but in this case you will need to make several tunnels for greater strength on the beam itself. As for swings for a summer house, in most cases a sofa or a single cradle is suspended from a beam. The frame should be made entirely of metal. To do this, you can use a corner or channel.
It is much easier with a corner, since if you use a channel, you will have to select the beams/boards according to size.
It is desirable that the supporting structure be square or triangular; this will prevent the workpiece from bending. Using bolts and nuts, you need to secure wooden blocks to the base. To do this, first make appropriate holes in the corner. This way the seat will be ready.
The next step is to install the chain. It should be attached to each corner of the cradle. Next, weld steel rings in the designated places. If they are not there, then you can get by with reinforcement or another rod. There is not much difference, the main thing is to use solid and reliable material. When the rings are ready, pass the chain through the tunnels.
If you need to remove the swing, you can use carabiners. Their presence will also allow you to change the chain without any problems.
Although some weld the chain tightly to the cradle itself. There are no rules here, it all depends on your vision of the situation.
Upon completion of all work, the entire resulting structure should be coated with a primer and painted in the desired color (the first layer of primer should be water-repellent). Pre-treat all welding seams with a grinder. This will avoid snags and injuries. So, the metal swing for the dacha is made.
Probably on every private property somewhere there is a old tire. And in the garden there grows thick and durable wood. If such a tire is hung horizontally on 3-4 metal chains, then several people can swing on such a swing at the same time. And if the tire is tied with one rope to a tree trunk (it hangs vertically), then one person can easily swing.
Since people with original thinking can make a swing in the country, an unusual and interesting option. This product has a ring made of durable metal. The metal ring is attached horizontally to the support using four chains. In a special hoop they make large quantity chains is the so-called socket. These chains must be attached at one end along the circumference of this hoop, and the free ends intertwine each other, and thus are fastened. To prevent chains from scratching a person, they are wrapped tightly and soft cloth, and a special pillow is placed in the nest itself.
We bring to your attention a video dedicated to a homemade swing for a summer house.
If you decide to buy a swing for your garden, then first of all you should look at online garden furniture stores, since their prices are often lower than in regular stores. Also, if you are looking for something cheaper, we recommend keeping an eye on sales at specialized markets.
And now, we invite you to familiarize yourself with the diagrams of swings of different shapes:
