This project was built and designed by Marcus from Salty Woodworking. It’s a simple and affordable swing that adds charm and comfort to any outdoor space.
If you’re looking for an easy weekend woodworking project that doesn’t require a lot of expensive materials, this one fits the bill. The design is straightforward, and the results are both practical and stylish.
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Why Make a Porch Swing?
Adding a porch swing is a great way to upgrade your backyard or front porch. It creates a cozy place to unwind while also giving you the satisfaction of having made something useful.
Porch swings are perfect for morning coffee, afternoon reading, or simply relaxing with family. This project offers comfort, function, and a clean design that works well in most outdoor settings.
Materials and Prep
Marcus builds the swing using whitewood studs, which are a solid and affordable option. He prefers these over yellow pine for their lighter weight and cleaner look.
You’ll need about ten 2x4s along with basic hardware like eyebolts and hitching rings. A reliable outdoor stain or sealant is also essential to keep the swing protected from the weather.
Planning and Layout
Before cutting any wood, Marcus lays out the design in Fusion 360. Planning with software helps reduce waste and ensures all cuts are accurate.
Having a full cut list on hand makes the build go more smoothly. It also helps make the most of each board, which is key when keeping a project under budget.
Building the Frame
The build starts with cutting and flattening the boards to size. The perimeter of the seat is assembled first using pocket holes for strong, hidden joinery.
Next, Marcus adds stringers to support the seat slats. A spacer ensures even gaps between the boards, giving the swing a clean, uniform look.
Glue is added during assembly to reinforce the pocket hole joints. It’s a small step that adds significant strength to the finished piece.
Constructing the Back
Once the base is complete, the back section is assembled using similar techniques. Each part is connected with pocket screws and glue to ensure durability.
Throughout the process, Marcus checks the design plans to confirm each measurement. This helps keep the angles and spacing consistent across the entire frame.
Sanding and Finishing
With the structure complete, it’s time to sand everything smooth. Marcus uses a good-quality sander to clean up the surfaces and round off any sharp corners.
A stain is applied that enhances the natural grain of the whitewood while offering weather protection. Care is taken to cover all areas, including the pocket holes, to guard against moisture damage.
Hanging the Swing
Once dry, the swing is ready to hang. Eyebolts with washers and nuts provide a secure connection to the rope or chains.
Marcus adjusts the swing to a comfortable sitting height. He also uses electrical tape on the rope ends to prevent fraying and improve long-term durability.
Final Thoughts
This is a rewarding and affordable project that adds something special to your outdoor area. It doesn’t take long to complete and offers years of use with proper care.
Whether you’re reading a book or just enjoying the breeze, this swing becomes an instant favorite. It’s a great example of how simple materials can be used to create something lasting and beautiful.
Please support Marcus by visiting his website: https://www.saltywoodworking.net/
Matt’s Take
These are my personal thoughts and tips based on my own experience in the shop. This section is not written, reviewed, or endorsed by the original creator of this project.
This is exactly the kind of project that gets me excited about woodworking — simple, functional, and achievable on a reasonable budget. Marcus’s approach using whitewood studs is smart; they’re dimensionally stable and much easier on the wallet than premium lumber, while still delivering a sturdy result that’ll last for years outdoors.
The pocket hole joinery is a solid choice here. Those joints, especially when backed up with glue, create surprisingly strong connections that can handle the dynamic loads a swing experiences. If you’re new to pocket holes, take your time getting the depth settings right on your jig — it makes all the difference in how clean the joints come together.
One thing I always emphasize with outdoor projects is the importance of that finishing step. Weather protection isn’t optional, and getting good penetration into those pocket holes is crucial since they expose end grain. When hanging any swing, double-check your mounting points and hardware ratings — you want everything rated well above the expected load. A swing that fails is dangerous, not just disappointing.
For $50 in materials, this delivers incredible value. It’s the kind of project that reminds you why we love working with wood in the first place.