How to Build a Wooden Swing Base

When building your own swing, one of the most important pieces that you need to take into consideration is the swing base, or the seat of the swing. A rope tree swing base is not a complicated structure to make; the whole process can be accomplished in less than 30 minutes. A rope tree swing will last for years, often through several generations of a family. Doing the work properly the first time will give family members and friends a lifetime of enjoyment.

Things You'll Need

• 2-by-8 board
• Saw
• Drill
• 5/8-inch drill bit
• Varnish
• Paintbrush

Show More

Instructions

1. • 1

     Cut a 2-foot section of wood from the 2-by-8 board.

   • 2

     Drill a hole in each corner of the board 2 inches from each edge.

   • 3

     Apply varnish to the wood using a paintbrush. Allow the varnish to dry overnight before hanging the swing base on the rope. Varnish is very slow drying so you need to allow eight hours before checking it for tackiness.