How to Build a DIY Backyard Swing Set

Learn how to build a DIY backyard swing set. In this video, I will detail the entire process to build a DIY backyard swing set. I built this entire swing set for only 285.00 dollars which includes all lumber, hardware, and accessories such as the swings and playset anchors. This wooden swing set is built with an A-frame design. I will explain all the materials you will need to build this A-frame swing set as well as provided all of the building instructions. This wooden swing set is 12' long and can house three swings of various kinds.
To View the SketchUp 3-D plan document, first download the free SketchUp Viewer here: www.sketchup.c... Then after you have the viewer, you can download the swingset plans here: drive.google.c... Once downloaded you will be able to view a 3-D model of the swingset. If you have the SketchUp program then you will be able to edit the plans as well. The plans are free to use, modify and alter!
Caution:
For demonstration purposes. Actual structural integrity must be determined by the Individual builder(s). The suggested weight limit for the safest operation of this type of swingset is around 300 lbs.
#swingset #DIYswing #backyardswingset
Material List: Rough Cost 285.00
Pressure Treated Pine Lumber
x4 - 4"x4"x10'
x1 - 4"x6"x12'
x4 - 2"x4"x8'
Exterior Grade Hardware:
x20 - 4" Lag Screws
x28 - 2½" or 3" Deck Screws
x6 - Swing Hangers
Swing Set Accessories
x3 - 66" Plastic Coated Swings
x4 - Playset Anchors
x6 - Locking Carabineers
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Shopfix, for the love of woodworking!

[@_Shopfix]

To View the SketchUp 3-D plan document, first download the free SketchUp Viewer here: www.sketchup.com/products/sketchup-viewer/downloads Then after you have the viewer, you can download the swingset plans here: drive.google.com/file/d/1ubYd9bZS7j4c951HdNFeKcQA4f5840Hw/view?usp=sharing Once downloaded you will be able to view a 3-D model of the swingset. If you have the SketchUp program then you will be able to edit the plans as well. The plans are free to use, modify and alter!

[@mrscorpio007ify]

At the 8:18 time mark when 4" is measured at the bottom of the 4×6 for the 5 degree mark. The top measurement of the board is 4 1/2" if you don't have an angle measuring tool. You make the two marks, line them up with a straight edge and you will have your 5 degree mark. I had to figure this out with a lot of trial and error. I'm almost finished with this project. Thank you for posting.

[@skipmcgripcunningham9897]

Thank you for the comprehensive video! My husband and I built this swing set for our kids today using this as our guide and it turned out great! God bless!

[@_Shopfix]

That is awesome! You are so welcome, it is the perfect size swing set for kids I think. Hope you saved a ton of money doing it yourself!

[@skipmcgripcunningham9897]

Yes! Definitely the perfect size for our two kids. And even with the cost of lumber these days it was still cheaper and more solid than the overpriced rinky-dink sets they sell in stores. Not to mention it looks way nicer too!

[@amantedelmondo1787]

Thank you for this video. It actually reminded me how unskilled and unwilling I am to take on a project like this. Perhaps you can make a series for absolute beginners showing stuff like what tools or machines will someone need to get into woodworking, safety measures, where and how to get the best wood for a specific project. Baby steps essentially...

[@_Shopfix]

Sorry for the late reply, I appreciate the suggestion. I think beginning woodworking videos would be awesome. I think you’re right about the willingness to tackle a project, you got to muster up enough determination to complete the big projects. But just take stuff one step at a time and you can accomplish wonderful things. I learn something new everyday still.

[@StephanLeming]

Good job what I really appreciate with your video is that you're showing people to pre drill the holes so you don't split the wood.

[@_Shopfix]

You can definitely ruin some projects without drilling pilot hole!

[@mariosainezortiz8864]

Thank you very much for sharing all your knowledge in such detail. Greetings from the beautiful city of Morelia, Mich.

[@haroldped]

Great design and instruction. The few things I did differently . . . 5/16" Spax Power lags for both the main beams and 2 x 4s (3" for the latter) . . . router all lumber before assembly to protect those little fingers . . . I was able to hoist this up alone (I am in my 60s) without too much sweat using a 6' and 8' ladder.

[@bingo45s]

I actually watched this video believing I could accomplish this...but I just learned that I am woefully under-skilled. But this is the exact design I want.

[@_Shopfix]

With a few practice cuts and more familiarity with the tools you can definitely tackle the project!

[@ChickenScissors42]

Thank you so much for this video! I've watched a bunch, but this design in particular is finally, exactly what I was looking for. Looks good and gets the job done without having to do anything too fancy

[@_Shopfix]

You are certainly welcome! I figured those building a swing set would like to see this budget design which does not feature any expensive hardware. I am glad that you found this video helpful, I wish you the best of luck with your future projects, take care.

[@d.taylsmusic]

Building Instructions For DIY Frame: 1. Cut 60 degree angle on all (4) 4x4 posts -Use template piece so all match -Do not cut to point, leave a small amount flat at top 2. Mark at 10’ from top of that cut, make a 30 degree angle cut at bottom -This one can be to a point -Use template piece so all match 3. Use scrape 2x4’s to lift frame off ground for ease of work -Lay down 4x6 as a reference of width 4x4’s should be apart -Make 2 60 degree angles level at top -Use temp blocks nailed to side to help attach clamp while you screw in side braces 4. Attach 2x4 brace 4’ up from bottom -Screw down -Saw off excess 5. Use excess from bottom brace at top -Measure 5/8 from base of 60 degree cut -Screw in 6. Remove clamps/temp blocks at top 7. Lean A Frame onto something so you pre drill some pilot holes -Mark Lines at 2” and 4” From Top Frame -Pre Drill with 1/2” bit, go 1/2” deep (use tape on your drill bit as reference if needed) -Inside that pilot, do another pilot with a 1/8 bit 8. Pre-set lags into 4x4, prep it of fastening to the 4x6 once leaned up -Draw a 5 degree angle on 4x6 each side 4” in (make long side at top) -This creates a small angle for a frames to brace outward 9. Lean up a frame and insert 4x6 into gap -Secure A frames to 4x6 at 5 degree angle line 10. Measure 2’ Down from top of 2x4 for next cross support -Install angle brace from that cross beam up to the 4x6 to help with side to side sway 11. Swing Hangers Should be 20” apart and 18” from 1 swing to another

[@_Shopfix]

Thank you so much for creating this, I'm going to pin the comment to the top! Very helpful

[@richardadamo7695]

I mean the two on each side at the top that angle from the a frame to the beam.

[@Jazbo777]

Very great job and ty for the exact directions You’re a wonderful wood worker

[@_Shopfix]

Sorry for the late reply, but greatly appreciate the comment! I try to learn something new everyday!

[@bacardi2324]

Thanks mate :-) made a brilliant swings and slide thingy, for my kids. Super solid, just couldn't find a 6x4 in uk! Used 4x4, and will install some type of reinforcement

[@_Shopfix]

You’re very welcome! I wish you the best of luck on your future projects, and thank you for supporting the channel!

[@iddybiddy213]

I love the design. Well done! Is the 4x6"sufficient to span that +/- 12' without deflection? Also why did you drop that 2x4" ledger 5/8" below the 60degree cut? Wouldnt that cause the beam to sit lower than the edge of the 60degree cut and leave you with the top of the 4x4 proud of the beam? Thanks for your good work! Adam

[@iddybiddy213]

Any ideas anyone?

[@_Shopfix]

Sorry for the late response. The 2x6 will have deflection relative to the weight in which is placed on the beam, the more weight the more deflection there will be. However, with three children weighing about 70 pounds each I think I had about 1/2" to 3/4ths deflection in the 4x6 beam. You would have less deflection and greater stability with a 4x8 or something with greater dimensions. I dropped it down so that the lag screws would have more thickness of the wood to hold screw into basically. If you placed the 4x6 higher you would have less wood to screw into so I dropped it down where the would was thicker.

[@yuschampion]

Great work we just made one also, it's so satisfying rather then buying one

[@_Shopfix]

Thanks for the comment, it certainly is! I checked out your build on your channel too, nice work!

[@Peendee]

Oh my gosh. You just… so good.

[@_Shopfix]

Thank you 🙏

[@vincekp]

Nice video. Would you mind telling me how tall the swing beam ends up being when you use the 10 ft 4x4 legs? Seems pretty tall in the video. Also, what’s the total area footprint foe this?

[@_Shopfix]

I have recently uploaded sketchup plans that have those measurements. Sorry it took so long.

[@alyssagreenler1517]

Hi! Looking forward to building this. Can you tell me why the 1/2 inch tip off the 60 degree angle on 4x4s? Is this just so it doesn't look strange when all assembled? Or is there another reason? Thank you!!

[@_Shopfix]

Yeah, you got it. Just for aesthetics 👍

[@Delphisteve]

I believe that those Spax screws are rated for interior...

[@chicochivas945]

great video

[@_Shopfix]

Hey, thanks for the positive feedback, I appreciate that!

[@faiz181]

Great video! Do you have info/video on how to implement proper ground anchoring?

[@_Shopfix]

Ground anchors are super simple. Most anchors simply screw into the ground like an auger and then you just screw the top to the material of the swing set.

[@jaredtoles1001]

Did you use pressure treated wood? If so, how long did you wait to sand and stain the wood? I read that the wood has to dry first.

[@_Shopfix]

Yeah I used pressure treated wood and eventually applied some exterior stain to it. No need to sand the wood.

[@algernon821]

Are the angle braces made from 2x4 or 2x6? Any hints on how to make those cuts.

[@_Shopfix]

They are 2x4’s, cut a 37 degree angle on one side and then you can trim the rest off flush to the boards after screwing them in.

[@ngoc3552]

Thank you 🙏

[@_Shopfix]

You’re welcome! I wish you the best of luck with your future projects!

[@mrscorpio007ify]

Is it still a 60 degree angle leaving that half inch piece on at the top?

[@dean222222]

At what exact height from the ground is the top beam now?

[@_Shopfix]

I have included detailed plan documents to the video if you still need to reference that measurement.

[@eddiea5491]

Can i hire you for a similar job in my backyard?

[@DadiBisson]

Trying to work out where all the 4" lag screws go, it says 20, but I am only counting 16? Both sides of top of A frame into 4x6 both ends, 12 (3×2×2) and the diagonal braces into the 4x6 each end, 4 (2x2) where do the other 4 go please? All the ones in the A frame when viewed end on, seems to be 14(each end of each 2x4 and into the diagonal brace coming down from the 4x6), so that is all 28 of the other screws used. Sorry, am I missing some, or is the list at the start incorrect? Thanks

[@_Shopfix]

There are 3 Lags screws per 4x4 so that would be 12. Plus 4 lags screws per angled brace which would be 8. 12 plus 8 gets to 20, hope that helps.

[@richardadamo7695]

For the two angled supports to keep this from flexing side to side, what is the bottom angle. I want to build this and the plans are very good, but there isn't an angle given for these.

[@killiancummings5679]

I just built this yesterday. I made the bottom angle 45 degrees, put in place flush with the bottom cross support and marked the top angle with a pencil. The top angle was just over 46 or 47 degrees.

[@_Shopfix]

I cut it to fit, and it depends on what you want to hang on the swing. Mine was about 30 degrees.

[@brenna5077]

Did the total price include the swings?

[@NoBody-ro3xj]

It says what all is included right after the price

[@_Shopfix]

It did at the time of posting the video but as prices have risen so did the total cost of the build.

[@pz4926]

What is the maximum weight this beam can handle ? If the 4x6 is 6meters in length ?

[@_Shopfix]

If you want to span the 4x6 20ft/ 6 meters you'll want to put another A-frame in the middle of the span. Even at 12ft/ 4 meters you get deflection on the 4x6 beam going across, so at 20 ft/ 6 meters it will have even less structural stability and the weight limit would be greatly reduced. However, like I said you could add another A-frame in the middle of the span and just make it straight up and down 90 degrees and then it would work fine! I do not recommend exceeded the length of the top beam in this video because it would drastically reduce the amount of weight the swing set could hold. I estimate my design safety and comfortable holds under 300 pounds.

[@pz4926]

@@_Shopfix thank your very much for a detailed reply. Much appreciated

[@jeremybeard]

Wouldn't that be 30 degree angles at the top and 60 degree angles at the bottom? When you put two 30 degree angles together at the top, it makes a 60 degree angle over all. Then the bottom side would be cut to 60 degrees to form am equilateral triangle with the ground.

[@ronniegonzalez6986]

How long are the angle braces and angle to cut them?

[@_Shopfix]

I have made and uploaded sketchup plans that have those measurements. Sorry it took so long!

[@jayquay3884]

can you use 2 2x6's joined instead of a 4x6 beam?

[@OGR8itsOGRE]

Definitely

[@_Shopfix]

I can't see any reason why that wouldn't work! It might make mounting the swing hangers on the under side a bit tricky though.

[@ya00007]

I don't understand why you used the 60 degree cut for the top and not the bottom. Surely the 30 degree cuts should be at the top because the two legs at the top should be 30 each this making 60 (assuming you are making the A frame a equalleteral triangle, 60 degree angles on each corner).

[@parrotcarrot0123]

How wide should the 4" lag screws be?

[@_Shopfix]

Anywhere around 1/4” should be sufficient. I believe the ones I used were 5/16th but 1/4” is a good number to shot for, you certainly don’t want to use anything under 5/16ths.

[@parrotcarrot0123]

@@_Shopfix thank you so much!! I'll look for quarter inch.

[@richardreis7327]

what is the length of the 4x6

[@_Shopfix]

12ft

[@andrewgolden4843]

U haven't checked lumber prices lately u can't build this for 300

[@Shantzmd]

Content is good but get rid of the annoying music

[@_Shopfix]

Thanks for the feedback