How to Make a Rope Swing

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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Many children enjoy spending time lazily swinging the day away on a homemade rope swing. Making one for your kids is easier than you might think. You can use a natural tree branch or a post as the support. If you are using a branch, skip right to the second section.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

5 in. diameter treated round post
Ropes
2 ropes, length depends on height of swing
2-ft. long 2 x 8 board for the swing
Eyebolts with nuts and square washers (optional)

Using a Support Post

Step1

Choose a post that is a suitable length for the tree you'll be using. It should be long enough to allow for about 1/3 of the length in overhang from which you'll hang the swing.

Step2

Locate a good spot in the tree to place your post. Both ends of the post should rest within the fork of 2 branches. The post also should be placed at a sufficient height above the ground to allow room for the swing. The swing should be approximately 1.5 feet off the ground.

Step3

Tie the post onto the branches of the tree using the rope. Tie the ropes as securely as you can.

Attaching the Swing

Step1

If you are using a natural sisal rope, bind the ends so that they don't unravel.

Step2

Place the ropes about 20 in. apart on the branch or post.

Step3

Ensure that you are leaving enough room between the swing and the tree when you place your ropes. You also should place the ropes a sufficient distance from the end of the tree branch, which is where branches tend to weaken. For a post, 4 inches or so from the end should suffice.

Step4

Tie the ropes onto the tree branch or post. Use a round turn and 3 half-hitch knots to secure them properly (see Resources below for guidance with the knots).

Step5

Prepare your board. Drill the holes into the board, 2 in. away from the ends, and tie the rope directly to it. You also can attach eyebolts, using nuts and square washers on either side of the board. Attach the rope to the eyebolts. Using eyebolts will stabilize the seat.

Step6

Tie the ropes to the swing using half-hitch knots. If you aren't using the eyebolts, put the rope through the holes in the board, and then tie the knots underneath. Test the knots for strength and durability before using the swing.