How to Build an A-Frame for a Swing

[@ohKLN]

Your video helped me build my very own in about 5 hours. I went with 4x4x8 and 4x6x8 instead of the 10’s for the size I needed and it works great!

[@MIddlefish]

Great video! My daughter is 7 months old and I want to build her a swing set nit go buy one! This video is perfect and now I will!

[@_Shopfix]

Glad it was helpful!

[@nealfortner1403]

I Built bigger for swing set and also smaller for bench swing I made. Was easy build and to budget. Only thing I would add is, 5° angle on lower of posts with 30° to set flush to pad on ground. Also concrete blocks under posts to keep from quick rot. But really was a nice simple build :)

[@_Shopfix]

Thank you for the extra tips!

[@gnimelfuap]

Oh my. I get the idea that you really know how to build swings. The first few seconds of the video showing how the parts all go together is great. Thankfully it’s all I need. I made the mistake of trying to watch the rest. Following the steps was hilarious. Especially going from clamping the top to next putting on bottom braces. The video really confused me.

[@_Shopfix]

Well that is awesome that you are that naturally mechanically inclined you didn't need the whole video!

[@chrisboynton8848]

Is the 5 Degree angle on the 4x6? thats where I lost track of what you were doing, Other than that, I plan on using this plan over the weeknd!

[@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!

[@Rob-Heaston]

Outstanding work bro! Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

[@_Shopfix]

No problem! Glad I could help!!

[@cnm7481]

Și l-ai îngropat?

[@khmer.ballroom]

Thank you 👍

[@Hand-i-Craft]

Great tutorial and thanks for the sketch up plans as well. Could I just ask what is the overall height of the frame? Couldn’t spot that on the SketchUp plan. Many thanks from Liverpool, England 👍👍

[@_Shopfix]

Hey, thanks! The total height of the frame from the ground to the top of the cross beam is 102”. From Liverpool, England, that’s awesome thanks for sharing 👍

[@traviscole7069]

Hello buddy, beautiful swing. I'm planning on building your plan. Whats the weight capacity, can i use this for adults as well, thanks you

[@_Shopfix]

Hey, the weight capacity is around 300. Anymore weight than 300 and there is too much deflection of the top beam, however if you shortened the length of the top beam then it would be stronger and would hold far more weight. This design would work well for 2 adults that are swinging gently.

[@traviscole7069]

@@_Shopfix thanks for the prompt response, yeah I'm building a 5ft swing very small. It should be fine then. Thanks again. I was thinking if I could cut the the edge of the 4x4 and let the beam sit on top it would that work in your opinion or just build your design.

[@_Shopfix]

​​⁠yeah, you could notch the 4x4 in half and rest the top beam on either half of the 4x4 and then mount it all in place with hardware, that would work as well!

[@cam975]

How much weight could this hold? Is there a way to calculate that? Is there a way to make it hold more weight safely?

[@_Shopfix]

My best estimate would be 300 pounds!

[@richardadamo7695]

What is the angle cut for the side to side support? I’m guessing 60 degrees but not sure.

[@DocFeelGood4]

Really wish this got answered

[@keelynicholas2547]

60. No matter how wide the legs go another board sitting flush will be 60

[@_Shopfix]

I have recently uploaded sketchup plans that have all of the measurements, sorry it took so long.

[@carmelojeronimo8497]

Nice

[@jaijason8150]

I adjusted angles cause this thing was huge. Went 75 instead of 60. Wondering if that 5 degree angle at top to align legs would be the same?

[@bobbbobby7635]

Why do the A-frames lean in 5 deg from plumb, is that to help minimize racking?

[@joshualajoie9547]

Would this be sufficient to support a 2-person bench swing without additional metal bracing? I'm thinking of cutting the sizes of each beam down by 2 feet to make a hanging brace for an interchangeable bench swing and hanging archery backstop. To that end, how do you effectively drive in hooks/eye rings for hanging things? I'm just getting into woodworking now that I'm not in an apartment.

[@maximus208]

If you're swing is going to be 4ft long, the 8ft frame would work. If a 5ft swing, I would use the 10ft post. I just built an 8ft frame & swing. I hung it by drilling through the top of the post & using 1/2 in × 8in lag bolts with a jam nut on the top so it doesn't loosen. It easily supports my wife & I, we're 500lbs together. That's a lot of weight!😂

[@_Shopfix]

Yes it is sufficient for a two person bench swing but you’ll want to reduce the length to just hang outside of the bench which will make it much sturdier. You can also lower the overall height since the swing won’t be swinging as high. Basically you just want a smaller version of what I built to accommodate one bench swing instead of three chair swings which need more room.

[@_Shopfix]

To effectively hand eye hooks you’ll want to use a universal socket bit in a power drill.

[@galtigjtokay5318]

Is it okay to replace the lag screws with bolts? Would it have the same strength?

[@_Shopfix]

Bolts would be stronger as long as you installed them correctly with the right washers, etc. If you used bolts instead it could also be disassembled and rebuilt easier. I chose lag screws for simplicity.

[@Delphisteve]

Those spas screws are rated for interior

[@joannabrelstaff8011]

Great video thank you. Question How deep and wide is the base of the finished swing ?

[@_Shopfix]

I have recently uploaded sketchup plans that have all of the measurements, sorry it took so long.

[@brumbritt]

what if you want to build af bench swing. does the frame work for that as vel?

[@_Shopfix]

Yes, definitely!

[@cookie920211]

Fantastic video. I am just wondering if we need to dig hole and make a concrete post for the A frame? How can we make sure that the A frame will not be moving around but fixed to the ground? Thanks very. It is a very educational video.

[@_Shopfix]

Swing-set anchors will do the trick. Another important aspect is making sure the swing set is level. The leveling of the swing set will help it to not fall over, anchors will help as well. Concrete posts are not quite necessary.

[@michaelmenegakis4597]

What were the 3" wood screws for?

[@hobbsroy23]

Great tutorial. Thanks for posting this. I'm wondering where I can find the simple angle protractor you're using. Do you mind sharing the name of the brand or if you remember where you got it? It looks like a very simple one to use. Thanks!

[@Kathyskollectables]

I am sure big box stores have them, also Amazon would have them. They have everything!

[@MrOramato]

Wait, my 60° ended up 90° to my 30°, so I cut them off and started over, by the time I got it right my swing was hanging 5’ off the ground. So I covered in corrugated aluminum and called it an A- frame dog house.

[@_Shopfix]

I’m sorry it didn’t quite go as you planned, that happens to me all the time but I just cut it out of the video and start over lol

[@SpynCycle57]

A problem I see is that you are putting the entire weight of the top beam, swings, and kids all on some screws holding the top 2x4 braces. The shear strength of those screws isn't enough. If you had notched the uprights and placed the 2x4 into the notches, you have much more strength, and safety.

[@bhaaldemon3184]

Good point there Darrell, how would you suggest would be the best way to notch? Take half the material from the uprights, and half from the 2x4 to mate them? Then you could glue & screw into place, and the load would be dispersed evenly at three points rather than just the one yeah?

[@SpynCycle57]

@@bhaaldemon3184 I would notch the 4x4 by 1 1/2 inches, none from the 2x4, which would allow the 2x4 to be completely recessed into the 4x4. Glue & screw.

[@_Shopfix]

First I’d say that notching the boards isn’t a bad idea at all and I appreciate the design modification! However, all of the weight isn’t resting on the 2x4 support. Most of the load is being held by the 12 lag screws that are going through the 4x4s and into the 4x6. You also have the crossbeams which are mounted with lag screws that are also supporting the load. The 2x4 top piece does provide additional support but it is more for assembly because it gives you a reference point to rest the 4x6 beam into place. I have this swing set in my backyard as it was designed and to this day haven’t had any problems! 👍 if you build this swing set and notch it, perhaps I can get a picture from you and add it to the description in case others want to add that to theres as well!

[@Jason-mt2gf]

@@_Shopfix I used your plans to the letter and it is plenty strong. The load capacity is probably even much more than 300 lbs. I think the original poster missed the part of the video where you fastened the beam with those 4 inch lag bolts. Thank you so much for this video, it made my four year-old's day.

[@windturbinerockstar]

Legit

[@ionutbili]

Hello. Do you have a drawing?

[@_Shopfix]

I just uploaded a 3-D SketchUp drawing

[@dannynull4410]

I am sorry but I can not read the material list on the video. The first part is cut off and I am color blind which also makes it more difficult for me to read. Can you provide the material list here? thanks for any help..

[@galtigjtokay5318]

Do you still need the info? I can write them here

[@dannynull4410]

@@galtigjtokay5318 thank you but I did find it.

[@_Shopfix]

the material list is in video description.

[@aintgotnohandledog]

I want to build a swing that will have 2 large round disc chairs. Approximately 40 inch across. Will need to beef up the weight limit and hoping for a little advice from you. Thx in advance. Hope you reply soon, you know how the ladies can become impatient at times. Lol. Mines past that point. Due to the fact she want the kitchen cabinets painted first. Somebody gottsta helps me...

[@_Shopfix]

To make the swing set hold more weight you can just use larger dimensional lumber. Perhaps a 6x6 for the top beam instead of a 4x6 and then 4x6 for the legs instead of 4x4s. That would be my thought to add strength. You’ll likely need to get longer screws as well.

[@aintgotnohandledog]

Thank you so much for your reply. I really appreciate yall. Gonna see what I can mess up soon.

[@aintgotnohandledog]

Hello again. I'm a bit sketchy on anything I do and need advice again. To make our Swing stronger I decided to increase the lumber size as well as the fasteners. Using 6x6 for beam, 4x6 for legs and 2x6 crossbraces. 3/8 x 6 lags, 5/16 x 4 structural screws. With 4x6 legs and 60 degree cut along the 6 or (5 1/2) side, the length of the cut is quite long (approx. 10") leaving a lot of open area for a feeble mind like mine. Would you cut the angle leaving thicker stock at the top to locate beam at the 5/8 mark below the angle? Or install beam closer to top leaving a gap at the bottom? Sure appreciate any help on this.

[@_Shopfix]

@@aintgotnohandledog Hey, trimming off some of the angled board at the top leaving you with the thicker stock at the bottom of the angle is a great idea 👍

[@aintgotnohandledog]

@@_Shopfix Thx again. I do really appreciate your advise. This Swing frame is gonna be around for many years.

[@originalfallinggirl]

Can I use my jigsaw?

[@_Shopfix]

You can certainly try, might need something more powerful though.

[@GunninWizard]

Can an adult over 256 swing on this?

[@_Shopfix]

Not at the length in this video as I used a 12 foot cross beam. The shorter the cross beam the more weight it will hold. So if it’s a single swing on a 4-foot cross beam I’d say you’d have no problem!

[@dannynull4410]

Is there a mate

[@_Shopfix]

What?

[@olgalimpin]

Olga’s Garden

[@ProjectsWithPaul]

👍🏻

[@_Shopfix]

thank you for supporting the channel!

[@kayleighjones3004]

Are the measurements for 1 “A” frame or 2? Xx

[@kristianruffin6242]

Oh man! This looks so doable BUT im SO confused! 😕 what would something like this cost to have made?

[@_Shopfix]

I think buying a pre made swing set would be better than hiring someone to build this model. The cost savings is definitely in the diy aspect of this build.

[@judynull979]

Do you have a material list and or a set of PDF plans?

[@_Shopfix]

material list is in video description and I just uploaded sketchup plans!

[@aclive2022]

what is that wall at the end of the miter station for? I designed this A-Frame design: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kJDRmIyrgdh3qLc Please let me know what you think.

[@_Shopfix]

I’m pretty sure you’re referring to the dust collection box that’s around the miter saw.

[@blablabla5026]

Can u plz add metric system measures

[@_Shopfix]

Okay I’ll see if I can convert the measurements quickly to metric.

[@_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!

[@aratanaenor]

Where was this video 15 years ago when me, my dad, and my grandfather tried and failed to build a frame for my mom's old porch swing?

[@_Shopfix]

Oh no, I feel the same way about so many things I tried to do back in the day without KZbin haha

[@milansredojevic318]

Quico question, why are you cutting the top board with the angle of 5? Why can't you put it straigth like it is?

[@vlast3k]

i believe to get some trapezoid structure and reduce side-by-side shaking, in addition to the cross-beam

[@Jaireetbrar]

Yes because the legs are not right angled to floor like I they are like a / \ , so they make a good contact at 5 degrees. If that makes sense.

[@_Shopfix]

None of the boards are cut at a 5 degree angle, the legs are simply angled at a 5 degree angle instead of going down straight to the ground. This helps stabilize the swing set and I believe makes it more structurally sound with less side to side wobble.

[@johnmichaelhoyt9340]

how tall is the a frame? any idea what length of chain I would need for the seat? great video! thank you guys so much I am making this for my stepson for christmas.

[@_Shopfix]

Check out the plan documents in the description 👍

[@robyn1509]

Amazing video. Thank you!

[@_Shopfix]

Hey! You’re welcome, glad it came in handy for you!

[@ya00007]

Surely the 60 degree angle is the bottom and the 30 degree angle is the top of each leg?

[@clifffoltz651]

Awesome build !!

[@_Shopfix]

Thanks buddy!

[@AlienInferno]

Just finished building an A frame from your plans. I'm using mine in the garden to tie up tomatoes. My old one got busted up in a storm. Thanks.

[@sheilareed518]

Thank you, looks great.

[@_Shopfix]

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

[@ironmountain7907]

Awesome build, I’ll be hanging a heavy bag from my A-frame! Thanks for the help.

[@brenna5077]

Curious about how much it costs to make it this way vs using the metal brackets?

[@choppinblock3179]

I just looked up the cost of a set of metal brackets that were $175 shipped.

[@keelynicholas2547]

You can get a set of brackets for $50 give or take depending on brand at lowes

[@apostolicway2604]

I’m more concerned with which is “better” brackets or like this.

[@_Shopfix]

I’ve looked up a pair of brackets to be about 70 to 120 dollars depending on the quality and the brand. I think both the bracket design and the wooden A-frame design are fairly similar in durability and strength.

[@healthpromotionwithmusic]

Thank you

[@_Shopfix]

You are very welcome! Take care.

[@Robertdowneyjrs273]

Very nicely explained almost everything. You are marvellous.

[@_Shopfix]

I appreciate the positive comment, thanks!

[@pickoutdoorgear6618]

Love this!

[@_Shopfix]

Thank you! I wish you the best of luck on your future projects, and thank you for supporting the channel!

[@matthewdewitt4654]

Just finished mine today, thank you so much for the assist. The kids love it!

[@_Shopfix]

That’s awesome! Is it still holding up well?

[@stormes28]

I want to build a swing with no beam. Just two posts and a short L shape at the top to hang the swing. I found an L pergola extension but not sure if can handle the weight and it won't bend. Any ideas?

[@_Shopfix]

I am not sure, and I wouldn't want to give any advice in which I don't understand or cannot see the pieces you are referring to. Best of luck with your future projects!

[@kamikazexro]

Dear God! Why don't you people evolve to the metric system already? Otherwise, a very solid looking frame. One of the best a saw online. I'll build it this summer for a big arse round thing.