40 Backyard DIY Swing Set Projects That Won’t Break the Bank

You don’t need to spend thousands to bring joy and adventure to your backyard. With a little creativity, basic tools, and some elbow grease, you can build an amazing swing set that’s both budget-friendly and safe for hours of play. Whether you’re a DIY newbie or a seasoned builder, these 50 backyard swing set projects will spark your imagination and help you create a play space your kids will love—all without breaking the bank.

1. Basic A-Frame Wooden Swing Set

Start simple with a classic A-frame design using treated lumber. This timeless project is sturdy, affordable, and perfect for one or two swings. With a few 4×4 posts, galvanized hardware, and a set of chains and seats, you can build it in a weekend. Add a coat of waterproof stain to make it last longer and match your outdoor style. It’s ideal for beginners and provides a strong foundation for upgrades later.

2. Single Post Tree Swing DIY

Have a sturdy tree in your yard? Turn it into a dreamy swing spot with just a rope and a wooden or rubber seat. This budget-friendly project costs next to nothing and adds a magical touch to your backyard. Just be sure the branch is healthy and strong enough to hold the weight. It’s an easy afternoon build with maximum nostalgic charm.

3. Pallet Swing Set on a Budget

Repurpose old pallets into a fun swing set frame and even use extra boards for the seats. Pallets are often free or very cheap from local hardware stores or warehouses. With the right sanding, sealing, and reinforcement, you can create a rustic-style set that looks intentional and trendy. Add rope or chain swings for a finished, budget-conscious backyard feature.

4. DIY Tire Swing with Rope

An old tire and sturdy rope are all you need for this classic project. Clean the tire thoroughly, drill drainage holes, and suspend it from a tree or swing frame. Tire swings are incredibly durable and provide a fun 360-degree motion that kids love. It’s one of the most affordable and low-maintenance swing ideas out there.

5. Two-in-One Swing and Slide Combo

Combine play elements by adding a slide to your swing set frame. Use wood for the structure and a plastic or reclaimed slide to save money. This combo encourages more active play and transforms your backyard into a mini playground. By doing it yourself, you can customize the height, width, and features to suit your space and budget.

6. DIY Swing Set with Monkey Bars

Upgrade your swing frame by adding monkey bars for climbing fun. This project adds fitness and fun to your backyard while still staying budget-friendly with wood and metal rungs. You can use simple plumbing pipes or wooden dowels for the bars. It’s a great way to maximize a small space and keep kids engaged for hours.

7. Reclaimed Wood Swing Set Design

Use salvaged wood from old furniture, fences, or barns to build a one-of-a-kind swing set. This eco-friendly idea is perfect for rustic backyards and those who love upcycling. Not only does it save money, but it also gives your swing set a story and a unique, lived-in look. Just be sure to sand and seal all surfaces for safety.

8. Portable PVC Swing Set

Lightweight, low-cost, and easy to move, PVC swing sets are a smart choice for renters or those with limited yard space. Use 2-inch thick PVC pipes and fittings to build the structure, and secure it with ground stakes for stability. It’s not for very heavy use, but it works great for toddlers and temporary backyard fun.

9. Minimalist Metal Pipe Swing Frame

For a modern and industrial look, consider building a swing set frame out of galvanized steel pipes. This sturdy option resists rot and pests and offers a sleek aesthetic. It’s slightly more expensive than wood but still affordable—especially if you can reuse pipes from other projects. It’s great for a clean, minimal backyard vibe.

10. DIY Rope and Wood Platform Swing

Build a platform swing with a thick wooden base and heavy-duty rope. It’s perfect for lounging, reading, or gently swinging under the trees. This project is simple, stylish, and versatile—working for both kids and adults. Add outdoor cushions for extra comfort, and suspend it from a tree branch or sturdy frame.

11. Tree Branch Hanging Bench Swing

A wide, sturdy branch can become the perfect place for a hanging bench swing. Use reclaimed wood or an old indoor bench with durable rope or chains to suspend it. This idea feels charming and inviting—perfect for quiet mornings or afternoon reading in the garden. It doubles as kid fun and adult relaxation space, making it a budget-friendly multitasker.

12. DIY Porch-Style Swing on a Frame

If you don’t have a porch, no worries—build a freestanding A-frame and hang a porch-style swing from it. The frame can be made from affordable pressure-treated wood, and you can use a secondhand bench or DIY one from scratch. It brings that front-porch charm into any part of your yard.

13. Upcycled Chair Swing

Turn an old chair into a swing by removing the legs and adding sturdy ropes to each side of the seat. Painted in fun colors or stained for a rustic look, these unique swings add personality and save furniture from the landfill. It’s a quirky, playful project that gets people talking.

14. Mini Toddler Swing Set

Create a scaled-down swing set just for toddlers. Use a small frame, toddler swing seat, and extra safety supports. Because it uses less material, it’s extremely budget-friendly and great for tight spaces. Soft ground covering underneath makes it safe and family-friendly.

15. Old Skateboard Seat Swing

Upcycle an old skateboard into a swing seat by attaching ropes through the wheel holes. The curved seat provides a fun and slightly bouncy ride. It’s a unique twist that older kids (and even teens) will love, and it’s budget-conscious since many people already have an unused board lying around.

16. Boho Macramé Swing DI

Using strong macramé cord and a wooden dowel, you can create a beautiful bohemian-inspired swing chair. Hang it from a tree or a solid beam. While it may look fancy, it’s surprisingly low-cost and only requires some patience and basic knotting skills.

17. Rope Ladder and Swing Combo

Combine a swing with a rope ladder for double the fun. Hang the ladder on one side of the frame to encourage climbing, then add a simple swing on the other. It’s active, adventurous, and doesn’t require more than a few extra pieces of rope and wood.

18. DIY Platform Swing with Cushions

Use plywood or pallet wood to create a wider platform swing and toss on some waterproof outdoor cushions. This makes a great relaxation zone that can hold two kids or an adult and child. Hang it from a tree or frame for a peaceful retreat.

19. Half-Swing, Half-Hammock Set

Blend two backyard favorites by suspending a swing seat on one end of your frame and a fabric hammock on the other. You’ll get swinging fun and lounging comfort in one DIY project. Perfect for family homes with multiple age groups.

20. Old Door Turned Swing Seat

Have an old solid wood door? Cut it down and repurpose it as the base for a wide swing. Add a few rope holes, sand the edges, and hang it up. The result is vintage, unexpected, and incredibly sturdy.

21. Foldable Swing Set Desig

A collapsible swing set frame is great for seasonal yards or shared spaces. Use hinge joints to make the A-frame fold flat for storage. It’s practical, clever, and keeps your yard open when not in use—all while being easy to build.

22. DIY Pergola Swing Station

Build a small pergola structure and hang a swing from the beams. The pergola adds charm and shade, while the swing adds fun and relaxation. Choose climbing plants or hanging lanterns to decorate the frame affordably.

23. Log Swing Frame with Rustic Appeal

Instead of lumber from the store, gather fallen logs or timber from your property and use them as your swing frame. The natural, rustic look is beautiful and budget-friendly. Just be sure they’re treated to prevent rot and insects.

24. Simple Pipe Frame with Wooden Seat

Use black plumbing pipes or galvanized steel for a modern swing frame, then add a reclaimed wood seat. This mix of materials gives a cool industrial look while remaining low-cost and durable.

25. Suspended Wooden Disk Swing

Cut a round wooden disk for the seat, drill a hole in the center, and run a rope through to hang it. This simple swing is perfect for quick builds and takes up minimal space. Paint it for a pop of color or leave it natural for earthy charm.

26. DIY Zip Line with Swing Seat

Add a bit more adventure by creating a low zip line and attaching a swing seat to the harness. Kids will love the added movement and thrill. This isn’t for every yard, but if you have the space, it’s a budget-friendly thrill ride.

27. Dual Swing Set for Siblings

Design a frame that supports two swings side-by-side—perfect for siblings or playdates. Build it wider for safety and use separate chains for stability. It’s efficient, budget-smart, and keeps everyone happy at once.

28. DIY Standing Surf Swing

This unique idea involves a long, curved board (like a balance board) attached vertically to ropes for standing swing action. It’s great for older kids who want a challenge and it adds variety to traditional swing fun.

29. Wall-Mounted Swing in a Corner Yard

If you’re tight on space, build a swing that hangs from a secure wall bracket or fence post. It’s a compact, functional idea for smaller backyards and city homes where frames take up too much space.

30. Swing with Built-In Planter Base

Make your swing set frame do double duty by building planters at the base of the A-frame. Add herbs or flowers for extra charm and beauty, turning your swing set into a backyard focal point that’s both fun and decorative.

31. DIY Climbing Rock Wall + Swing Set Combo

Attach a rock climbing wall to the side of your swing set frame. Use scrap plywood and affordable climbing holds to keep costs low. Kids will love the added activity, and you’ll love the multi-use functionality.

32. Pyramid-Style Frame for Multiple Swings

Instead of a single bar, use a pyramid-shaped frame to support swings on multiple sides. This is ideal for larger families or if you often host other kids. The design looks unique and distributes weight more evenly.

33. Tent Canopy Over Swing Set

Add a DIY canopy over the swing using a sheet or fabric tarp. This offers shade and adds a whimsical, tent-like feel to the setup. It’s perfect for hot climates and also looks magical in the evening with string lights.

34. Concrete-Filled Tire Base for Portability

Pour concrete into a tire and use it as a portable swing anchor. Attach a pipe or wood beam to create a swing post. It’s secure yet movable and makes a great temporary or renter-friendly solution.

35. DIY Saucer Swing

Use a round piece of canvas or strong fabric stretched over a hoop to make a saucer-style swing. It’s cozy, fun, and safe for multiple kids to lounge or play on. Hang it from a single rope system for a floating feel.

36. Mini Zip Swing for Small Yards

If a full zip line is too much, try a zip swing—essentially a swing on a slanted rope that glides a few feet. It’s simple to rig, fun for kids, and can be built with minimal materials on a budget.

37. Swing with Painted Chalkboard Frame

Paint the side of your swing set frame with chalkboard paint to give kids a creative outlet. They can draw, play games, and swing all in the same space. This bonus feature adds fun without extra cost.

38. Multi-Level Play Swing Set

Build a platform or mini treehouse at one end of your swing set frame. Kids can climb up, slide down, or swing from underneath. It turns a basic swing set into an imaginative play fort without a massive price tag.

39. DIY Hammock Swing Combo

Hang a hammock next to your swing for chill time. This makes your backyard more versatile—fun for kids, relaxing for adults. All you need is a few eye bolts and strong rope or straps.

40. Swing Set with Lantern Hooks

Install hooks on your swing frame and hang battery-powered lanterns or string lights for evening play. This makes your DIY swing set feel cozy and usable even as the sun goes down—perfect for warm nights and backyard parties.