build a swing seat

Step 1:  Start with the seat. Make the frame for the seat base, using our photograph as a template, or use straight pieces if preferred. Sand any cut edges. Pre-drill the holes so that the screws can counter-sink for a neater and more comfortable finish, and use the glue for extra strength.

Step 2:  Make and attach the uprights for the back of the seat. Clamp one of the slats across the three uprights to ensure they're straight. Attach the arm rest supports.

Step 3:  Cut slats to length, and note that two of them are going to be shorter to go inside the uprights and one of those will have a notch jigsawed out of the centre to fit over the back frame.

Step 3b:  Screw slats into place, using the narrow edge of a slat as a spacer.

Step 4:  Attach the arm rests and the self tapping screw eyes as shown.

Step 5:  Cut opposing notches into the top beam (130mm from the ends) and posts with a circular saw and chisel. Drill holes for the coach bolts. Slot the beam and posts together, using a mallet. We cut 30 degree bevels on the ends of the top beam which not only looks good but stops water seepage into the timber's end grain. Or you can leave the beam plain. Add the eye bolts to the underside of the top beam, 40mm in from the posts. They go close to the posts so that the rope stays out past the seat arms.

Step 6:  Stain the timber. We used a brush to apply Resene Waterborne Woodsman stain, but if you choose a paint finish, you could use an airless spray gun. Thread the 10mm rope and knot it at the top so the chair doesn't tip, then thread through the eyelets on the chair, and knot. Adjust the height to around 450mm off the ground then tie off securely. Singe the rope ends so that they don't fray.