Bed Swing

Model credits: Kirk.
PDF drawing and cut list: Elvis Alcequiez

The download link in PDF format for both the drawings and the cutting list is after the instructions and tips.

Cutting List

First, we create the structural base of the furniture with posts with the measures shown in the image, Two 6′ x 11″ slats on front and back, and two 3′ x 2 1/16″ slats on each side, the part that protrudes at each end is important because it is where the suspenders will be attached.

Instructions and tips

Very Important: for the support base, go to Amazon and type in the search engine “porch swing hardware” you will see a lot of parts to choose from for your base, good quality, easy to install, and very resistant.

A bed swing is typically suspended using a rope or chain. These materials are strong and durable and can support the weight of the swing and the people sitting or lying on it. The rope or chain is often braided or twisted to add extra strength and support and to prevent fraying.

Additionally, outdoor furniture swings, including bed swings, are often made with a UV-stabilized rope, chain or synthetic webbing so that it can withstand the elements better and prevents them from breaking down due to sunlight exposure.

What type of wood is ideal for building a bed swing?

Bed swings can be constructed from a variety of types of wood, depending on the design and the intended use of the swing.

One common wood for outdoor furniture is Cypress wood, It is naturally rot and insect resistant and is relatively stable, so it does not warp or twist as much as some other types of wood. It also has a nice warm color and nice grain patterns.

Another type of wood that’s often used for outdoor furniture is Western Red Cedar. This wood is light in color, with a straight, tight grain, and naturally high resistance to rot, decay, and insect infestation.

Additionally, other options like Teak, Eucalyptus, and Ipe are also often used for outdoor furniture construction because they are naturally durable and resistant to rot, decay and insects as well.

It is worth noting that although some woods have a natural resistance, all types of wood will require regular maintenance to maintain its appearance and prolong their lifespan.

What type of screws is ideal for constructing a bed swing?

The standard screw size for bed swing construction will depend on a few factors, such as the weight of the swing and the type of wood used in the construction.

For a standard bed swing with a weight capacity of 400-500 lbs, 1/2 inch is a standard bolt size for the main suspension points (where the swing attaches to the frame or support structure).

This size will provide sufficient strength to support the weight of the swing and the people using it.

When it comes to connecting the swing to the hanging structure or frame, 3/8″ to 1/2″ diameter lag bolts are common, the length of the bolt will be determined by the thickness of the lumber that the swing is being attached.

It’s important to note that these are general guidelines, the actual size of bolts and connectors may vary depending on the design, specific use, and materials. It’s always good to consult the manufacturer’s recommendations or consult with a professional for proper size and installation.

When constructing a bed swing, it’s important to use screws that are strong, durable, and corrosion-resistant. Here are a few types of screws that are commonly used for outdoor furniture construction:

Stainless steel screws: Stainless steel is an excellent material for outdoor use because it is corrosion-resistant and can withstand exposure to moisture and weathering. Stainless steel screws are a good choice for outdoor furniture construction because they will not rust or corrode, even if exposed to the elements.

Hot-dipped galvanized screws: Galvanization is a process of coating steel with a layer of zinc to protect it from rust and corrosion. Hot-dipped galvanized screws have been dipped in a bath of molten zinc, which creates a thicker and more durable coating.

These screws are also a good choice for outdoor use, however, they are not as rust-resistant as stainless steel, but they are more economical.

Composite deck screws: Composite deck screws are made specifically for use with composite decking materials.

They are designed to be rust-resistant and corrosion-proof, and they are also specially coated to prevent damage to composite decking materials.

It’s important to note that the type of wood used will determine the size of the screws needed.

Most bed swings are constructed with thicker lumber, and it’s important to use the appropriate size and length of screws to ensure that the swing is strong and stable.

What type of suspension material is ideal for building a bed swing, and what size?

Rope and chain are the most common types of suspension materials used for building a bed swing.

Rope: Cotton or Polypropylene rope is the most ideal for a bed swing as they are strong, durable, and weather-resistant. They are also relatively soft and comfortable to the touch, making them more comfortable to lie on than chains.

A 3/4″ to 1″ diameter rope is ideal for bed swing construction. A thicker rope will be more comfortable to lie on and will have more strength to support the weight of the swing and the people using it.

Chain: A chain is a strong and durable suspension material that can withstand exposure to the elements. Stainless steel is the best type of chain to use as it will not rust or corrode when exposed to moisture or other types of weathering.

A 3/16″ to 1/4″ diameter chain is ideal for bed swing construction. The thicker the chain, the more strength it will have, but it can be less comfortable to lie on than rope.

Both rope and chain are available in various lengths, so you’ll need to measure the distance from the top of the swing to the point where it will be suspended and use this measurement to determine how much suspension material is needed.

In addition to the strength and durability of the suspension material, It’s important to make sure that the suspension points are properly secured, and that the swing is constructed in a way that will ensure maximum stability and safety for the users.

What kind of mechanism is used to support the bed swing rope or chain?

A variety of mechanisms can be used to support the rope or chain used in a bed swing. Some common types include:

S-hooks: S-hooks are a simple and effective way to attach the rope or chain to the frame of the bed swing. They are easy to install and can be quickly removed if necessary.

Shackles: Shackles are a type of metal fastener that is similar to S-hooks, but are more heavy-duty. They are often used to attach ropes or chains to large objects or structures. Shackles are also easy to install, but they may be more difficult to remove than S-hooks.

Eye bolts: Eye bolts are another type of fastener that can be used to support the rope or chain in a bed swing. These are screws with a circular ring at one end, used to support a rope, chain, or cable. Eye bolts come in various sizes and materials. Stainless steel and Hot-dipped Galvanized are common for outdoor use.

Turnbuckles: Turnbuckles are devices used to adjust the tension in a rope or chain. They have a screw mechanism that allows you to adjust the length of the rope or chain, which can be useful for adjusting the height of the bed swing or for tensioning the rope or chain when installing the swing.

Swivel Hooks: Swivel Hooks are a type of hook that can be used to support the rope or chain of a bed swing. They swivel around a central point, which makes them more durable, and allows the swing to move in all directions without getting twisted or tangled.