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Large Modern Porch Swing Couch

diy porch swing couch plans
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Build your own porch swing in a couch size!  Fits standard 24 x 24 inch outdoor cushions.  Basic design is easy to build with a simple tools and off the shelf materials.  Free plans by Ana-White.com

This plan has been updated to increase the back height for more comfort when leaning back and keeping pillows in place.  The original plans are still available here.
large porch swing bed plans
Dimensions
porch swing couch plans
Dimensions are shown above. Seat is designed to fit 3 - 24" x 24" cushions, or one 24" wide x 72" long cushion.

Preparation

Shopping List
  • 5 - 2x4 @ 8 feet long
  • 8 - 1x6 @ 72" long (can also use cedar fence pickets, but must be properly sanded or planed first)
  • 70 - 1-1/2" to 2" long self tapping exterior use screws (look for the star bit ones)
  • 50 - 2-1/2" to 3" long exterior self tapping wood screws (look for the star bit ones)
  • Hardware to hang swing and swing chain

Cut List

2 - 2x4 @ 69" - seat frame front and back

2 - 2x4 @ 25-3/4" - seat frame sides

2 - 2x4 @ 22-3/4" - seat frame center supports

2 - 2x4 @ 16-1/4" - arm rest front supports

4 - 2x4 @ 30-1/4" - back supports

2 - 2x4 @ 27-1/4" - arm rests

8 - 1x6 @ 72" 

Tools
Tape Measure
Speed Square
Pencil
Hammer
Safety Glasses
Drill
Circular Saw
Power Sander
Level
Drill Bit Set

Instructions

Step 1

Use the longer screws to build the frame for the seat, two screws per joint.

Step 2

Add center supports to the seat frame with the longer screws, use two screws per joint.

Step 3

Attach back rest and arm rest supports to the frame, all outside edges flush.  Use three screws per joint, using the longer screws.

Step 4

Attach arm rest to the tops of the arm support and to the back support.  Use two screws per joint, using the longer screws.

Step 5

Attach the top seat slat to the back supports, all outside edges flush, using the shorter screws, two per joint.

Step 6

Attach remaining back supports using the longer screws into the seat frame, two per joint.

Then attach to the top seat slat with shorter screws, two per joint.

Step 7

Attach remaining seat back slats to the back with the shorter screws, two per joint.

Step 8

Attach seat slats to the seat frame, using the shorter screws, two per joint.

Step 9

We hung ours on an existing playground swing set, but your situation may likely vary from mine. Here is a good article on proper hanging of swings. On this swing, you will want to hang from the side aprons of the seat frame - that's where the majority of your weight will be. Also, I hung ours at a very slight (approximately 5 degree) back angle, to increase the comfort level.

DISCLAIMER: This is a very heavy swing and must be properly hung. Build, hang and use at your own risk - We are not liable for personal injury, loss or death from use of swing. 

Project Type
Bench
Sofa
Outdoor Projects
Room
Outdoor
Style
Modern Style Furniture Plans

Comments

DogpackMomma (not verified)

Fri, 06/24/2011 - 14:58

This is great! Thanks for the inspiration! Happy Trails!

Marj (not verified)

Fri, 06/24/2011 - 15:21

A few years ago, I built a swing and found that the hanging chains needed to be secured to the top of the back so it wasn't so tippy if a child stood on it.

Binh (not verified)

Fri, 06/24/2011 - 17:16

Hi Ana,

Thank you so very much for this plan. Literally, just got back home from HD and Lowe's, with my 2 little girls drooling over their 3-person swings that convert to a hammock/bed position. They've been wanting one since last summer. But, thought we could build a better quality, longer lasting one....if only we had your plans...and here it is, less than 1hr after getting back home! :)

Could you, pretty please, design one with a stand and converts?

THANKS again for all that you do, helping all of us to improve our homes and lives, with each new piece of wood, nails, screws and a little paint!

Guest (not verified)

Fri, 06/24/2011 - 19:19

I have great memories of my grandfathers porch swing. I have a porch but my husband thinks it won't support a swing. I will check out the ones with stands. Thanks for the great plan.

gabbiegal

Fri, 06/24/2011 - 21:12

I requested this a few months ago.. and am so Excited to see these plans. Hoping to get started next week ( That is if i can finish up the outdoor bench I am currently working on)
I may have missed something in step 7, it says here is a good article...but I don't see a link. Thanks for all you do for us Ana. Love this site, and Love your work.

Guest (not verified)

Mon, 06/27/2011 - 07:35

Oh I am so excited to see this design. I would love to know how to make it with a stand so it can be freestanding and moveable.

Guest (not verified)

Mon, 06/27/2011 - 11:24

Yes, PLEASE! I don't have a place to hang a swing, but really want to build one with legs, freestanding and moveable. This is such a cute bench--perfect!

Michele Villano (not verified)

Sat, 07/09/2011 - 10:17

We have our swing completed! Yay! We can't decide whether to use chain or rope to hang it. We are more concerned with the security of using a rope. What is the best way to make it secure and safe? Rope is definitely more cost effective! Thanks!

Guest (not verified)

Tue, 08/02/2011 - 18:53

just made it this weekend! directions were great! i used longer screws and screws where the finish nails would be and pressure treated wood as this will be hanging in the woods hopefully for years. so sturdy, i think a baby elephant could use it! your site is just the best. my sister is going to make something too!

Gretchen Knobl…

Mon, 08/22/2011 - 18:41

I love this. Everyone loves it. The feeling of calm and peacefulness that you get when you glide back and forth is just awesome! Thanks for making it so easy to accomplish this Ana!

Gina Robinson (not verified)

Wed, 08/31/2011 - 19:53

We have had a metal A-frame in our yard for years, from an old swing..I have been wanting a new swing for it for ever....we found your site and fell in love with the swing...bought all of the materials...even bought awesome cushions for it...then realized the frame is only 73inches wide...which means I guess we have to shorten the swing, :-( ...but how much do I have to shorten it? How much room does there have to be between the edge of the swing and the frame? Where else can I place the eye bolts, so I have more clearance.

Victor Busciglio (not verified)

Fri, 09/16/2011 - 09:04

This is the difference between an impersonal home and one that bears your personal touches and really makes you feel at home. You're doing well and i'm so impressed for showing to us what sometimes people missed from putting more relaxing place at home.

mcfirefly (not verified)

Mon, 01/30/2012 - 13:30

I live in a small apartment with a balcony on which I cannot hang a swing, and it's too small for an A-frame swing support. I'd like to build a glider out of this swing, but the hardware for a glider costs about $70 with everything included, dedicated metal glider hangers, and these hinges that supposedly make the gliding smooth (they are the most expensive part). But why not hang a glider like you do a porch swing, on simple chains? The problem is, I don't know where or how long to make the chains. The length could be easy enough to adjust, if the supporting structures were of the right size and in the right places, but I wonder whether they should match, or perhaps would swing better if offset or if with a slightly different length (saying so in print, I think that the same length and lined up, but not too tight, would be the way to go). The frame to hang it on would be a frame that wraps around the swing, same height that the arms would be, I don't know how much clearance between the frame and the swing should be, and the swing will attach by means of an under-support that could be something like the arms built again under it, although I'm not sure that's strong enough. I am looking at porch gliders and their hanging set-up, and it seems to me that this will be possible, and since the money is not presently available, I have a little time to think about it, but it would be wonderful for summer. So it creaks a little bit, just like a lovely old porch swing! I could sleep on it! Does anyone have any ideas or suggestions about how to do this?

Cindy McCoy (not verified)

Sat, 04/07/2012 - 20:39

I love the design for this swing! Instead of having two rows for the back I want to do 4. Would I just make the support boards longer? Thanks.

Mary M (not verified)

Sun, 04/29/2012 - 12:18

Ana, so happy to have found your site. This is a sweet porch swing you show here. Thank you so much!

My hubby and I love all things about porches - and you have to have a nice porch swing on a porch! I remember swinging with my Grandma when I was a little girl. She had a large porch on an old-fashioned two story home.

Here are some more pictures of porch swings: http://www.front-porch-ideas-and-more.com/porch-swings.html that your readers may enjoy. But, there's nothing like making one yourself. I am excited to dig deeper into your site. Thank you!

Anna Claes (not verified)

Sat, 06/16/2012 - 17:18

I have looked and looked for a 72-inch cushion for this swing, and can't find one! Can you or anyone else advise me on where to get one? Thanks so much!

Jeni c (not verified)

Wed, 08/01/2012 - 10:46

I loooove this so much! I just had a new super porch at our hunting lodge (10x30) built and i had them reenforce the ceiling to hold a super swing. Is there any way to make it longer assuming it won't compromise the strength? Thanks so much!!!

Mommyof4

Thu, 10/04/2012 - 18:23

This was my first build- super easy, fun and turned out beautiful!! I painted it a creamy white, made the back taller and the arm rest a bit wider! We have it hung next to our bed swing under the pergola my wonderful husband built! I absolutely love it!!! I am making my brother and sister in law one for Christmas!

Rocker7639

Thu, 03/01/2018 - 13:21

Love the swing! Thanks for sharing! Are there any major changes I would need to make for a queen size mattress instead of a twin? Obviously, the base, but do I need to be concerned with other parts to ensure enough support? Are there modified out already for a queen?

[email protected]

Fri, 05/31/2019 - 12:26

I love this project and want to do it.  But we don't have a place to hang it from.  I want to put it in a little cove of young trees.  I checked out the link you have to other free plans for similar swings.  They aren't as detailed.  I can do up to probably an intermediate skill level with the projects you show.  Do you have an A frame I could build with it?  Or another swing frame that would work?  Thank you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Wood Questions

What kind of wood should I use?
Most of our plans use standard construction lumber like pine or fir. It's affordable, easy to work with, and easy to find. It's also rapidly renewing and biodegradable, so a great eco friendly choice!

Can I use hardwoods instead?
Yes—just keep in mind they're heavier, cost more, and can be tougher on tools and harder to join together and finish. I recommend not tackling a hardwood project until after you have built several softwood projects.

What if my boards are warped?
Choose the straightest boards at the store. You can often work around slight warps by cutting them into shorter pieces.

What wood should I use for outdoor furniture?
Use red-toned or pressure-treated 2x lumber for framing, and cedar or cedar fence pickets for the decking. Outdoor furniture should be built like a deck—your local home center can help recommend the right wood for your climate.

Will my wood move or warp after I build?
Potentially, especially in humid climates. Let your wood acclimate indoors before building. Once acclimated and kept in a stable environment, movement should be minimal. Remember, most houses are built using framing lumber - it's all about keeping moisture down indoors.

Cutting Questions

Do I need a miter saw?
A miter saw is great, creating fast, safe, and precise cuts, even for beginners. But most plans can be built with a circular saw and a straight edge. If using a circular saw to cut, take time to practice, and get good at making cuts, before cutting your project boards.

How do I get clean cuts with a circular saw?
Clamp your board, measure twice, cut slow, and use a sharp blade. This takes practice, so spend some time making cuts. I go through becoming proficient at freehand cutting in my course, it is worth taking if you want to master this skill.

Will the store cut my wood?
Yes—most stores will do rough cuts to help you transport your materials home. But from store to store, the quality of cuts could greatly vary.

Joinery Questions

What screws should I use?
We recommend star-head self tapping screws for framing, most common sizes are 2-1/2", 1-3/4". Pre-drill if close to the edge or you find your wood is splitting.

Do I have to use pocket holes?
Pocket holes are the cheapest, easiest and fastest way to do some joints - like edge to edge or a hidden fastener joint. There are other methods, but these can be time consuming and expensive. We recommend using pocket holes as indicated in plans for best results.

How do I keep things square?
Use a speed square and measure diagonals after each step. Always clamp joints before screwing to keep them tight and flush.

Finishing Questions

Stain or paint before or after building?
A quick sand before and a full finish after gives the best results. Pre-finish if you're doing two-tone or detailed finishes.

What type of finish?
Use oil-based or water-based stain. For paint, cabinet-grade latex or enamel works great. High use surfaces on indoor projects should get a coat of polyurethane, I recommend a Helsman or Spar or other flexible poly that won't crack or peel with wood movement. For exterior projects, use a finish suitable for exterior fences.

How to get a smooth finish?
Start with a well sanded project. Sand between coats (220 grit), wipe clean, and apply light coats with a foam brush or roller.

Plan Questions

Can I change the size?
Many people do, and that's the great thing about building your own furniture! But do keep in mind going bigger might mean more supports are required, and often plans are optimized for minimal material waste.

Are these beginner-friendly?
Yes—plans are written with simple tools and clear steps in mind, with every effort to make plans as simple as possible.

Can I sell what I build?
Absolutely! Just don’t resell or repost the plans themselves.

General Questions

What tools do I really need?
A drill, circular saw, tape measure, square, and a few clamps will get you through most projects.

Do I need a workshop?
Nope! A driveway or small patio is plenty to get started, just make sure you have a level place to work. If you find you are building several projects a year, creating a small workbench is a great way to store tools and have a dedicated workspace.

What if I mess up?
Wood filler, sanding, or flipping boards goes a long way. Mistakes are part of the process!

What can I do to make my projects look more professional?
Start with straight boards, make accurate cuts, clamp all joints, and line up everything neatly. Sand thoroughly, use a neutral finish, and apply it in light coats for a clean look.

I've never built anything before. Where should I start?
Start with a few smaller softwood projects to get hands-on experience. Or if you're tackling a big project, buy a little extra lumber and practice your cuts and joints first. If possible, work with someone who has a bit of experience.

Care & Maintenance

How long will my furniture last?
With good joinery and regular care, your DIY furniture can last for decades. I have pieces in my own home that are over 20 years old and still going strong! One of the best parts about DIY furniture is that it’s easy to repaint, refinish, or repair—so your projects can grow and adapt with you.

How should I care for outdoor furniture?
Lightly pressure wash or hose it down once or twice a year. Tighten screws and reapply finish as needed to protect it—just like a deck or fence. A little upkeep goes a long way in extending the life of your furniture.

How about indoor furniture?
Regularly dust or wipe with a damp cloth. If it starts to look worn, a light sanding and touch-up paint or stain can refresh it in no time. DIY pieces are meant to be durable and fixable—so don’t be afraid to give them some love now and then.

Want to Build with Confidence?

Check out my ebook: 12 Skills to Build Your Own Furniture
It walks you through the core skills every builder needs—measuring, cutting, joinery, and finishing—so you can build beautiful furniture that lasts.

Still Have Questions?

Email us anytime at [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help!