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Whether you’re reading your latest novel or relaxing with some thought, the front porch swing is an ideal place to relax. In the back-and-forth struggle, there’s something especially meaningful about those quiet times. But you don’t have to spend a fortune on a fancy swing from the store. Do you have an old door collecting dust in your house? If so, you can use a little elbow grease and a few tools to turn it into a cute but useful DIY porch swing.
Of course, you can always buy a porch swing, but it may not be the most economical choice. For example, the Amish Casual Malvern Porch Swing costs $959.99 when purchased from Wayfair. And if you’re looking for something better, you’ll have to spend more than $1,000. A homemade swing, on the other hand, accomplishes the same goal at a much lower cost. Besides keeping fat in your cash account, by reusing that old door instead of tossing it in the trash, you’re also showing environmental goodwill.
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How An Old Door Becomes A Porch Swing
The first step in converting an old door into a porch swing bed is to gather the necessary supplies, including a door, 2×4 and 1×6 wood planks, a drill driver, eye bolts, paint, and a chain. Start by envisioning how spacious your swing should be, then measure that space at two by fours. After your 2x4s are cut to size, glue, screw, or nail them to the rectangular foundation that has been reinforced with additional 2×4 support pieces.
Now, cut your 1×6 boards to fit the length of the frame and fasten them to the top. With the seat upside down, glue two 2x4s lengthwise, protruding 4 inches on either side. Next, place your old door vertically on the back of the frame and fix it firmly. If you prefer a relaxed sitting position rather than a straight back, you can cut a small slit along the back length of the seat frame to give you a comfortable recline. Now, make armrests from some old wood and fasten them.
When you get close to the finish line, sand your product and maybe apply some latex paint to give it that out-of-the-workshop look. Next, thread your strong chains or ropes through the eye bolts attached to the 2x4s after drilling the holes. Your homemade porch swing is now ready to hang from the porch ceiling. Add a ton of plush cushions and toss pillows as a final touch.
Extra Considerations For A DIY Porch Swing
Do you have an extra door laying around? If so, that’s great; Rather than building the bottom frame of a porch swing by hand, you can use it for a seat. Just make sure that the remodeled door can support the full weight of the occupants. Additionally, instead of spending money on pillows, you can make a cozy addition to your DIY porch swing bed from an old mattress. Your porch swing can be reinforced with metal brackets and corner bracing to ensure it stands the test of weight and time.
If finding an extra 2×4 for the overhangs seems like more trouble than it’s worth, eye bolts will work just as well when bolted to the sides of the seat frame. Additionally, in some cases steel may be a better material for the seat structure than wood. To keep it looking crisp and preventing rust, simply apply a coat of rust-resistant primer, such as Rust-Oleum Protective Enamel Paint, available on Amazon.
Instead of reinforcing the seat frame, how about using extra chair legs to fill the gap and create a smart solution for your armrest? It completes the look, is useful and has a fantastic appeal. Don’t just sit back and let your work hang in the air. Give those bolts and ropes or chains a once-over regularly to catch any wear or loosening early. It’s about keeping your DIY porch swing looking good and safe for everyone.
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