The simplest & most beautiful tree swing design

Oak swing in background is a practical yard decoration and fun toy for children and adults.

I'm using a pole saw for some trimming. This tree had way too many lower limbs. I had wanted to take these limbs off for a long time. Now I had an excuse! To make the swing you'll need rope, a board with 2 holes big enough for your rope to pass through. Holes should be centered towards the outer edges. Mine were 2.5 inches in from each end. (see photo below)	Must have A VERY LEVEL LIMB. Without a level limb your swing will suck.
Recycling an Oak Board i'm rebuilding a very old barn (probably over 150 years) on the farm and this was used as part of a feeding trough. The day I saw it, I thought "That's it! - I've found my swing!". I didn't have to cut even one edge. I just sanded it and drilled two holes in it. Click to enlarge and see the old black nail holes that still have metal in them.
Notice how the rope goes down through the hole on one side and back up and through on the other. The 2 ends are tied to a limb above. I had considered a couple of different ways to hang the swing but my dad suggested this one and it was by far the best! Click pic to enlarge.
You may have noticed in the picture above that there is a crack creeping in from near my holes. It was there all the time and I'm afraid it's getting worse. So I screwed oak reinforcements to the bottom. Notice the rough shape of the bottom of the board. I tried to leave the character in where I could. Also, if you click the picture, you will see that somebody chewed my little oak pieces when I set them on the ground! I not mentioning names but he has a tail and walks on all fours (and he's my best friend).
Pictured are the knots holding the swing. This type of knot is called a cow-hitch variant according to "The Ultimate Encyclopededia of Knots & Ropework" by Geoffrey Budworth. Good book and I got it for $5 from B&N. Click pic to enlarge.
Learn how to tie a cow hitch variant knot. I used this for the swing and for hanging our new birdfeeder. Click Here or the picture on right.	Step by step knot tying instructions: click here.
Finished it with 2 coats of exterior Spar Urethane. Used a rag to spread it on. Sanded lightly with 320 grit between coats. Click pic to enlarge
We didn't get done till after dark the day before my birdthday party. But, dad couldn't wait and wanted to beat the crowds!
Miriam snuck this picture of me on the morning of my 41st birthday party.
Marcos got in a quick morning swing as well. He was bringing over those beautiful empenadas you can see on my 41st birthday and Marcos & Irmas 47th Anniversay page. Click pic to enlarge.
Daniel catching some air!	Dylan giving it a shot!
Click pic to enlarge.	Click to pix to enlarge

	Noah spinning her brains out!
It's waiting for its next rider. Will it be you?....