Swings & Slides

Treehouses are perfect for swings, slides and other classic playground features. Swings traditionally are hung from trees, and slides need an elevated starting point. Both swings and slides are available in a range of styles from playground equipment suppliers. In addition to the standard favorites, there are now buoy ball swings, tire swings with molded plastic tires (no potentially painful steel belting you get with real tires), and bucket-type swings for toddlers. Slides come in fun shapes like waves, spirals, scoops, and tubes.

A simple disc swing is a good do-it-yourself project with handmade appeal. To make a swing, cut a 10" or 11"-diameter disc from a piece of 2 × 12 lumber or two pieces of 3/4" plywood, making the cut with a jig saw or band saw. If you’re using plywood, glue the two pieces together with waterproof wood glue. Drill a 3/4"-diameter hole through the center of the disc. Round over the edges of the disc with a router and roundover bit, then sand everything smooth so there won’t be any splinters.

Attach the top end of a 3/4" nylon or manila rope to the treehouse or tree, using a 5/8" eye through bolt. Note: Make sure there is plenty of clearance for the swing’s travel. The longer the rope, the more clearance is required. Tie the rope to the bolt using a bowline knot. If desired, tie knots at various comfortable heights above the disc location. These give swingers a little extra holding power on the rope. Thread the disc onto the rope and knot the end to secure the disc at a comfortable height above ground. Cut off excess rope and melt or bind the end to prevent unraveling.