Build Your Own Swing Set

What You'll Need

• Braided nylon rope 5/8", enough to reach from limb to ground three times
• 2 locking carabiners (a.k.a. snap rings)
• 8 2.5 inch redwood deck screws
• Redwood or cedar piece 2x6x8'
• Power drill
• 3/4 inch paddle bit
• Hand planer
• Ladder

Instructions

Cut two pieces of rope, approximately 12 feet in length. To prevent the ends from fraying, use a lighter to melt the rope.

Thread the rope through the holes from top to bottom. Tie off all 4 ends with a knot. Tie both rope loops about 12 inches above the seat with an overhand knot.

To hang the swing, measure from tree limb to ground and cut another two lengths of rope to that measurement. Tie off the top end of the rope using a 'figure eight on a bight'-knot.

Make sure the tree limb is at least 8 inches thick so it will support both you and your child's weight. Attach the rope to the limb by threading the loose end through the loop created by your knot.

Attach the carabiners to the loose ends of the rope, again using a 'figure eight on a bight'-knot. Then attach the loop from the swing to the same carabiner.