Garden swings for a summer residence: varieties, design features, choice of garden swings, photos

Owners of country houses strive to surround themselves with comfort not only inside their home, but also in the surrounding area. You can create an atmosphere of comfort and peace in different ways - by planting exotic plants, arranging a decorative pond, erecting a gazebo. For family time, garden swings are a particularly attractive option - a democratic and therefore popular type of garden furniture. The number of models offered by manufacturers is at first pleasantly surprising and then puzzling; It’s not so easy to navigate this sea of possibilities and make the right choice.

In harmony with nature Source eden-deco.fr

Types of garden swings

Modern swings are a common attribute of landscape design; According to their functional purpose, garden swings can be divided into the following types:

Hanging swing

Known to everyone since childhood, suspended structures have become more complex; they are often equipped with a comfortable backrest and armrests. Models are available with seats and backs made of metal, wood and rattan. Plastic seats, although they reduce the cost, are less popular due to their low mechanical and thermal strength.

A hanging swing looks great under a canopy, on a terrace or in a gazebo. Using hooks, metal chains or ropes, suspended models are mounted on ceilings; This method of fastening fasteners requires periodic maintenance and inspection. You can also use a branch of a fairly strong tree as a crossbar.

Hanging swing on the veranda Source decoor.net

Portable (on supports, standard) swings

Such designs are characterized by mobility; they can be installed anywhere on the site and, if necessary, moved. Small models (swing chairs) are convenient because they are compact and cozy; light varieties woven from rattan will serve as an additional decoration for the garden or terrace.

The disadvantage of such designs is the limited load (most of them are designed for 100-120 kg); they can be used by one adult and a child at the same time. Many hanging swings can be dangerous for small children if left unattended.

Rattan swing chair Source pinterest.com

Baby swing

This swing has a reduced size. Since such a structure is intended for active recreation of children, the safety of the restless younger generation comes first. When choosing a children's swing for your dacha, pay attention to its stability and reliability of connecting parts of the structure. Responsible manufacturers use environmentally friendly materials, carefully smooth corners, and equip the seat with adjustable seat belts.

Wooden swing for children Source weller.ru

Family (swing-sofas)

Such garden swings are intended for joint relaxation; They come in a variety of sizes, have a comfortable wide bench and usually have a protective awning. The sofa swing is a massive structure that will require enough space. The advantages of such garden furniture include the following:

Comfort . The sofa swing is designed for relaxation by the whole family (manufacturers offer options designed for 2-4 people); Most often these are folding models. They are preferable for older family members as they are comfortable and have a limited range of motion.
Variety of designs . In addition to ordinary sofas, manufacturers offer wide models (swing beds) with a canopy and mosquito net, allowing you to relax comfortably in the fresh air. The swing gazebo is made in the form of an original structure (for example, a Chinese pagoda), inside of which there is a hanging bed for two. Some areas are decorated with forged and carved wooden swings, real works of art.

Metal swing for three people Source yandex.uz

Accessories . This functional garden furniture can be supplemented with a variety of pillows, a mosquito net, and a cover can be purchased.
Easy care . Only mattress and pillow covers need periodic washing.
Mobility . The swing is easily transported from place to place, at the end of summer they are dismantled and hidden until the next season (if it is not a forged version).

The disadvantage of swings is the requirements for the place of their installation - for the structure to be stable, a flat and hard surface is required. Another common problem is improper use, and does not relate to the quality of the swing, but to the way it is used. Reading the instructions and regular inspection will protect them from damage and extend their service life.

Based on the material used, the following models are available:

Metal . This includes luxury forged models and popular options made from metal pipes of different diameters. Metal swings are durable and stable; they look modern, are equipped with an awning and are designed for significant loads. Forged products are expensive and massive (which makes them difficult to move from place to place).

For stability you need a solid foundation Source ogunstroy.ru

Wooden (swing benches). These are often premium products that use high-quality wood (often pine or larch). Such garden swings fit harmoniously into any landscape; as a rule, they are produced without pillows. For some models, you can choose the color of the paint and the color of the awning. The disadvantage of wooden swings is their shorter service life (compared to metal models), which can be eliminated with timely maintenance.
Made from rattan . There are swing chairs (for 1-2 people) and swing gazebos. The frame of such products is made of aluminum or steel pipes, the hanging part is made of artificial rattan. In winter, rattan swing chairs will look impressive on a closed veranda or in the living room of the house.

Garden and terrace swing made of natural pine Source pinterest.ru
See also: Catalog of companies that specialize in garden furniture.

List of required tools and materials

A number of ensuing factors will depend on the choice of manufacturing material and the design itself. This:

reliability;
life time;
price;
safety;
designer look.

Often, to make a swing for a summer house with your own hands, several bases are used in the work: metal and wood; you can also find combined solutions. If the swing is made of metal, then you will need the following tools:

profile pipes with square or rectangular cross-section;
corners on a steel base;
steel arcs;
wood panels;
rope, chains or cable;
welding machine;
Bulgarian;
vice;
hammer;
pliers;
tool for measuring length;
level;
washers, nuts and bolts;
paint coating and protection of metal.

If the swing will be made from wood, prepare:

boards;
carbines;
self-tapping screws;
circular saw;
drill;
plane;
hacksaw;
welded chain;
galvanized screws;
roulette;
square

Choosing a garden swing

The choice of garden swing will be successful if it is made taking into account the following factors:

Budget . Having determined the amount you are willing to spend on a garden swing, you can focus on a narrower segment of proposals.
Manufacturer . You should contact a trusted manufacturer whose build quality is beyond doubt.
Type and size of structure. Ease of use depends on this; swings can be designed for 1, 2, 3 or 4 people. Pay attention to the height of the seat from the ground (it cannot always be adjusted).
Frame material . The wear resistance and service life of the product depend on the quality of the wood or whether anti-corrosion treatment of the metal was carried out.
Maximum (permissible) load . It is indicated in the product description and can reach 300, 500 and 700 kg. It is better to purchase a swing with a safety margin for this parameter.

Classic board swing

What do you need

How to do

1. Cut a piece of board about 50 cm long with a hacksaw or other saw that you have on hand.

YouTube channel Jeremy Rabe

2. To protect from precipitation and give a more aesthetic appearance, paint the resulting seat.

YouTube channel Jeremy Rabe

3. Using a drill a couple of millimeters larger than the thickness of the rope used, make two holes - at both ends of the board. Step back 2-3 cm from the edge so that the seat does not break, and drill exactly in the vertical center for an even suspension.

YouTube channel Jeremy Rabe

4. Divide the rope into two equal parts, make loops at the ends and secure to a suitable branch. Place the ropes at a distance approximately equal to the width of the seat.

YouTube channel Jeremy Rabe

5. Thread the ends of the ropes into the holes of the board and tie a couple of knots, choosing the desired height.

YouTube channel Jeremy Rabe

6. Try swinging.

YouTube channel Jeremy Rabe

What can be changed

Soft part

The soft elements of the swing provide much of the comfort and determine the appearance. The following types of materials are used in production:

Filler for mattresses and pillows . In most cases, the contents are foam rubber or holofiber. Foam rubber is known for its elasticity, hypoallergenicity and good air permeability. The only thing that can ruin the quality of foam rubber is high temperature and humidity. Holofiber is a more expensive alternative to filler, but it also has more advantages. This is an environmentally friendly, elastic, waterproof textile material.
Mattress covering . Sometimes cotton or polyester is used for covering. Natural material is pleasant to the skin, but absorbs moisture and therefore quickly loses its presentable appearance. The use of polyacrylontrile (Dralon) is considered more practical. This coating easily withstands solar ultraviolet radiation, allows air to pass through and does not become electrified. Another plus is that dralon is easy to wash and dries quickly.

Swing made from an old tire

What do you need

How to do

1. Estimate the approximate length of the rope so that it is enough from the branch to the ground, and add 1 m as a reserve.

Wrap the tape in the right place so that the edges do not fray, and separate the piece with a sharp knife.

YouTube channel Chris Notap

2. Cut the bike tube and put it on one end of the rope.

YouTube channel Chris Notap

3. Tie this part so that you get a loop wrapped around the camera. This will protect the rope from chafing and prevent it from cutting into a branch.

YouTube channel Chris Notap

4. Throw the rope over the branch and tighten the loop. For convenience, you can use a thin cord with a weight attached to it.

YouTube channel Chris Notap

5. Form a knot at a height of approximately 1.5–1.7 m from the ground.

YouTube channel Chris Notap

6. Cut two more pieces of rope, each about 2 m long. Thread them into a knot on the hanger, and then tie one knot at each end to secure it.

YouTube channel Chris Notap

7. Tighten a knot on the main rope from the branch. You should now have three ends that will hold the tire.

YouTube channel Chris Notap

8. Divide the tire into three approximately equal parts and drill holes with a diameter equal to the thickness of the rope, moving away from the edge of the tire. On the back side, make a few more holes to drain rainwater.

YouTube channel Chris Notap

9. Insert the ropes into the holes, put on the washers, and secure the ends with clamps.

YouTube channel Chris Notap

10. Release the tire and try to swing.

YouTube channel Chris Notap

What can be changed

Useful little things

When buying a swing, you should pay attention to the additional features of a particular model. The little things that can make your stay more comfortable include the following:

Folding backrest . Such a backrest can have several degrees of freedom. During a tea party or a picnic, the most comfortable position of the backrest is vertical. If you want to rest, you can fold it back.

Sofa swing with folding back Source pinterest.ru

Locking function . An important detail for most users. Drinking tea when the seat is rocking under you is not an easy task, and often fraught with minor household injuries.
Anti-mosquito net . Saving on this extremely useful device can nullify hopes for a languid evening rest.
Shape of the racks . If the structure will be installed on a solid area, you can safely choose classic designs with four legs. If there is soft ground under the swing, pay attention to models with arched legs. Such garden furniture will take a stable position and will not sink into the ground.
Protective case . Extends service life; it must be purchased separately.

Types of models

Do-it-yourself garden swings are a budget option for arranging a summer cottage and improving your recreation. In addition, you can buy finished products in a store that sells garden furniture.

A home craftsman can install a swing he made himself or bought with his own hands; it won’t take much time.

The designs differ in design, size and complexity of execution; popular types include the following:

Models with A-frames
Portable models on chains
Models with a bench on a U-shaped frame

Choosing an installation location

If you decide to purchase a garden swing for your dacha, then you have already chosen a place where you can install (or hang) them and know who will use them, because:

If a swing (free-standing by design) is purchased primarily for children , there is no place for it on a stone-lined or paved area.
If the swing is planned as a place for adults to relax , then, on the contrary, they try to place it on a hard surface. Otherwise, the supports of the structure will inevitably begin to go deeper into the ground.
A hanging swing on a tree is an option exclusively for children, unless it is a particularly massive tree with strong branches.
A hanging swing on a terrace with a canopy is the most comfortable relaxation option; covers on pillows and mattresses will be protected from direct sunlight. Sometimes the suspended structure is placed in a glazed veranda, which allows you to enjoy a cozy stay not only in the rainy summer, but also in the winter.

Hanging sofa swing on the veranda Source pinterest.nz

Swing for a photo shoot

A photograph of the bride and groom on a swing hanging in the air is a classic romantic photo shoot, adding emotionality and mischief to the image of the main characters.

However, not every couple has the opportunity to acquire such props, because a hanging swing requires a strong tree with thick branches located 3 meters above the ground. Finding such conditions within the city limits is a difficult task, who decided to make a swing for a photo shoot on their own.

However, the lack of a suitable tree is not a reason to be upset. The swing can be installed on an iron frame made independently. As a last resort, there is always the opportunity to find someone else’s swing, taking advantage of the owner’s consent.

The most important attribute inherent in a wedding swing is decor. By choosing certain types of decoration, you can create such props to decorate your wedding photo shoot with your own hands that no computer processing is needed.

Swing for a photo shoot: manufacturing methods

Wedding swings captured in photographs in winter are very rare: this attribute is strongly associated with summer and flowers in the human mind. However, for those who can work without fear, there is an opportunity to make a swing for a photo shoot with your own hands in the middle of winter, giving this simple prop absolutely fabulous features. When performing the work, you need to find or purchase the following:

Hanging swing

First, you should stock up on the required amount of colored ice. To do this, the water is divided into 3 parts, one of which is left transparent, the rest is diluted with a small amount of dyes, giving a fantasy shade. The resulting ice is split into uneven pieces and placed around the tree so that during filming the frame captures the sparkling chips.

The swing itself is decorated with ribbons and flowers to the taste of the young couple and photographer. Before assembling the swing, the chosen place undergoes a kind of test for harmony - the frame should be underloaded with details (a huge tree, a lot of snow, etc.), there should be proportion in everything.

At the second stage of work, it is necessary to decorate the branches with icicles and pieces of ice using clean water at low temperature. It takes a lot of time, but no plastic can replace the streaks of real ice sparkling in the sun's rays.

Finally, just before filming, the swing is covered with thick frost. This natural phenomenon occurs with a sharp drop in temperature, during which water dissolved in the air settles on the surface of all solid objects. Normal conditions create this effect using a regular steamer. The steam escaping from it will settle, covering the tree branches with beautiful “needles”.

Swing for spring wedding photo shoots

April and May are quite a difficult time to do a wedding photo shoot. The weather changes rapidly, melting snow reveals unsightly debris, dry grass, and rotting piles of leaves. If the shooting must take place before cleanup days, apple trees bloom, young grass appears, you will have to take care of cleaning the place chosen for the swing yourself.

Before starting work on setting up the swing where the photo shoot will take place, it is necessary to remove dry branches, grass, and remnants of last year’s snow from the frame. A carpet of last year's foliage can be preserved if it is smooth - without bald spots through which the ground can be seen.

Creating a more attractive option - the Lilac swing - will take more time. The name speaks for itself; this attribute is decorated in lilac, lilac, lavender shades, using the addition of the same large white flowers.

How to extend the service life

No matter how simple a swing for a summer house may look, they also need some attention. In order for such garden furniture to function as long as possible, it is recommended to follow a few simple rules:

Do not exceed the permissible load . Ignoring this important condition will lead to premature wear of the mechanisms and structure frame.
Avoid shock loads . It is worth knowing that the passport implies a static (distributed) and not a point load. In other words, the swing was not designed for sudden jumps, sitting down and swinging to the sides, even if they are performed by a user suitable for the parameters.
Do not increase the swing amplitude . One can hardly call a comfortable vacation that ended with the swing overturning.
Proper care . Information about what and how to clean, wipe and lubricate can be found in the passport or description.
Protection . Swings of any kind must be protected from moisture. To do this, during bad weather or the absence of the owners, they are covered with a cover or hidden under a canopy. Wooden structures are regularly treated with special impregnation.

A cozy place for an evening relaxation Source stroymix-v.ru

Plank swing

What do you need

How to do

1. Step back 250–300 mm from the edge of the furniture board, attach a square and draw a line with a pencil.