You’ll never find a Porch Swing of this quality at retail ! It’s built to last a lifetime — all in a single weekend

Spring is almost upon us. Soon, our thoughts will turn to outdoor activities . . . barbecues on the deck or patio . . . a dip in the pool (if we’re fortunate enough to have one)…back yard get-togethers . . . gardening . . . cutting the grass . . . let’s stop here, while we’re ahead! 

Yes, just as sure as there are lots of “fun” things to do outside in the Spring and Summer, there are also those yard-related chores that we must all attend to. And what better place to sit down and enjoy a relaxing evening after the day’s activities than on your own custom-made Porch Swing, like the one shown here.

This one’s a real “beauty” — and by following the plans we’ve included here, you can make this Swing yourself easily and quickly in about a week-end.  When you’ve finished, you’ll have a Porch Swing to rival any of the old “classics” you could hope to find at an antique shop, garage sale or flea market.  And the best part of all is that you will have built it yourself!

Step 1: Plane your stock  for the three back supports (B), three bottom supports (C) and 21 slats (A) to the desired thickness. Our guidelines call for 7/8-inch, 7/8-inch and 5/8-inch, respectively.  Remember, you may choose to make these parts thicker if you are lengthening the swing or using lumber that may not be as strong as oak.

Step 2: Cut the back supports (B), bottom supports (C) and slats (A) to size/length, according to the List of Materials.

Step 3: Using your bandsaw or scroll saw, cut out the contours for the back and bottom supports (B & C). For best results, use the pad sawing technique with double-faced tape to cut multiples of the same profile at the same time.

Step 4: Using your drum sander, sand all the support profiles (B & C) while they’re still taped together.

Step 5: Again . . . while they’re still taped together . . . drill 3/8-inch diameter holes at the locations indicated in the support pattern.

Step 6: Untape the back and bottom supports (B & C) and assemble them with carriage bolts, washers and nuts.  Tighten securely (see Support Assembly).