HOW TO BUILD A PORCH SWING
Footrest Hack
When relaxation comes to mind, the image of a porch swing is a common association. Variations of swings have been around since ancient times and, in one form or another, they have passed the test of time.
This project has been designed with simplicity and elegance in mind. The angular profile complements the swinging motion, and the seat boards sit flush within the frame to give it a solid, high-end aesthetic.
Once the arms, slats and swing supports are assembled, everything is finished off with a light sanding and protective coat. Then, based on your hanging preference, the porch swing is ready to be installed and enjoyed.
Before you get started, please read our info on safety, fasteners and building tips.
Before building, please consult our Terms of Use.
Porch Swing
Materials
- (5) 1 x 4 x 8' YellaWood® brand pressure treated pine
- (4) 2 x 4 x 8' YellaWood® brand pressure treated pine
- (1) 2 x 2 x 8' YellaWood® brand pressure treated pine
- (1) 1 x 6 x 8' YellaWood® brand pressure treated pine
- (1) ½ lb box 1 ⅝" wood screws + appropriate bit
- (1) ½ lb box 2" wood screws + appropriate bit
- Preferred wood finish
- Chain length
- 6 - 8x Eye-bolts or hooks
- YellaWood Protector® Stain and Sealer
Tools
- Pencil
- Measuring tape
- Miter saw (or chop saw)
- Table saw
- Jig saw
- Drill/driver
- Clamps (2 at least 12" long)
- Combination countersink drill bit (with 2" long 1 /8" bit)
- Radial sander (or sanding block)
- Tool to cut chain to length
- Damp cloth (optional)
- Waterproof wood glue (optional)
Plan Preview
DIY PORCH SWING PLAN PREVIEW
Enjoy a new porch swing using the YellaWood® step-by-step DIY porch swing project plan. It will tell you all you need to make this swing and upgrade your outdoor seating.
A summary of the steps is shown below:
1 Prep. Cut and label all parts listed in the instructions.
2 Arm Assemblies. Lay out specified parts and pre-drill with screws at each joint. Stand, clamp, and screw the assembly according to the instructions. Align listed parts and secure them together with screws. Repeat for both arm assemblies.
3 Slats. Place and secure designated parts and repeat on the back end of the bench. Secure 3 back slats in the same fashion, spreading them out. Attach the remaining slats and the top part of the arm assemblies. Secure to the top back slat with screws. Add slats down the backrest of the chair.
4 Swing Supports. Slide a support underneath the seat and attach the slats to the support using a clamp and screws. Position the swing so that its bottom is face up. Place and secure the listed parts, flip the porch swing right side up, and slide pieces in the appropriate order. Secure with screws.
5 Finishing. Ease any sharp edges by sanding. Apply preferred finish to the wood. Choose the appropriate hanging hardware and attach it to the overhung ends of the swing. Connect desired chain from porch swing to porch joints.
Footrest Hack
Hack Materials
- (2) 2 x 4 x 8' YellaWood® brand pressure treated pine
- (2) 1 x 4 x 8' YellaWood® brand pressure treated pine
- (1) ½ lb Box 2 1/2" wood screws + appropriate bit
- (1) ½ lb Box 1 ⅝" wood screws + appropriate bit
- Preferred wood finish
Hack Tools
- Pencil
- Measuring tape
- Miter saw (or chop saw)
- Drill/driver
- Combination countersink drill bit (with 2" long 1 /8" bit)
- Radial sander (or sanding block)
- Damp cloth (optional)
- Waterproof wood glue (optional)
Hack Plan Preview
Add on a nice footrest to your DIY porch swing project. The footrest portion is built with slats first followed by the frame that will connect it to the swing. Once these are secured, the assembly is attached to the underside of the porch, and you're ready to enjoy your upgraded DIY porch swing.
A summary of the steps is shown below:
1 Footrest. Attach slats to base to begin making footrest. Secure using screws. Attach remaining slats with even gaps between them.
2 Support. Create frame by securing specified pieces to side supports according to the instructions.
3 Finishing & Attachment. Ease any share edges by sanding. Apply preferred finish to the wood. Take swing down from hanging hardware and flip it over. Attach the support component underside the swing, on any side. Secure it with screws. Hang the swing, place the footrest at the desired angles, and secure it with screws.
