How to Make an Outdoor Homemade Tree Swing
A swing in the yard can be a source of fun for young and old alike. Commercially manufactured swings and swing sets are available for purchase from a variety of retailers. A homemade outdoor swing can be attached to the sturdy limb of an oak, maple or other available tree in the yard. Making a homemade outdoor swing requires only a few components. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Tire
- All-purpose cleaner
- Scrub brush
- Garden hose
- Ladder
- Drill with bit
- Rope
- Old garden hose or plastic tube
- Knife
Instructions
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1
Obtain a suitable used tire from a tire store or garage. Choose a tire that does not have metal wires protruding from the tread, as these can cause injury.
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2
Wash the tire with all-purpose cleaner and a scrub brush to remove dirt, road grime, grease and other debris. Rinse the tire with a garden hose and scrub again with cleaner if necessary. Rinse the tire thoroughly when done and turn the tire to drain accumulated water from the inside.
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3
Position a ladder under a substantial tree limb that will support the weight of the tire and those swinging on it. Choose a healthy limb that shows no signs of damage or disease.
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4
Choose a rope 1/4- to 1/2-inch in diameter for the outdoor tire swing. Slide a 2-foot length of old garden hose or plastic tubing onto the end of the rope to protect the tree.
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5
Place the rope over the limb with the garden hose or plastic tube positioned on top of the limb for protection. Tie the rope to the limb with a figure eight follow-through knot.
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6
Wrap the free end of the rope around the tire two times and position the tire at the desired height off the ground. Secure the rope to the tire with a figure eight follow-through knot. Cut excess rope from the tire swing with a sharp knife.
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7
Use a drill and a half-inch bit to bore six to eight drain holes in the bottom of the tire swing.
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References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images
