How to Make a Wood Patio Swing

Make the end frames of the swing by cutting four pieces of 2-by-4 inch wood, 24 inches each. The end frames will be used to support the seat and back supports of the swing. They are positioned at either end of the patio swing.

Make the back supports by cutting two pieces of 2-by-4 inch lumber to a length of 36 inches. These pieces will be secured to the end frames to complete the frame for the swing.

Position one of the back supports vertically between two of the 24-inch piece boards. The boards should make an "L" shape with all edges of the wood flush with each other. Use a drill with a 1/4-inch wood boring bit to make a hole through the three pieces of wood. Slide a carriage bolt through the hole and secure the boards together on the other side with a nut. Repeat this process to create the end frame for the other side of the swing.

Cut two pieces of 2-by-4 inch wood to 48 inches. Position the cut boards on the front and back of the end frames. Use wood screws to secure the 48-inch boards into place by inserting the wood screws through the front of 48-inch board and into the end of the boards that make the end frames. Repeat this process for the board on the back of the frames.

Cut 14 pieces of 2-by-4 inch boards to 48 inches long. Position six boards across the seat of the swing and secure them in place with wood screws at each end of the swing. Secure the other eight boards across the back support of the swing with wood screws in the frame at each side. Fewer boards can be used if you would prefer to have space between the boards.

Use a drill with a 1/4-inch bit to drill a pilot hole in the top of the back support on each end of the swing and in the top of the 2-by-4 inch board that goes across the front of the swing.

Insert hooks into each one of the drilled pilot holes.

Use a stud finder to locate the roof beam in the ceiling so the hooks can be anchored securely. Insert hooks into the ceiling of the patio where you would like the swing located. Position the hooks so they are 48 inches apart.

Connect the end of the 12-foot chain to each of the hooks on the swing. Lift the swing and connect the middle of the chain to the hook in the ceiling so that the swing hangs at the angle you desire. Repeat this process for the other side.