Handmade Cedar Wood Rope Swing

Reminiscent of a breadboard, this is your traditional tree swing. It’s made from sustainably-harvested cedar, a wood that’s excellent at standing up to the elements. By design, much of the end grain of the wood is covered to prevent soaking up too much water.

“Tree swings are cool because they are at home in a natural setting, so you are freed from the ghoulish metal framing of the traditional playground set-up,” says Casey Dzierlenga, the swing’s creator.

Casey is originally from North Carolina, but lives in upstate New York, and makes sustainable furniture under the name Dzierlenga F+U. All swings are made to order. Please allow ten days for delivery.

Going gray is a natural part of life – for swings too. Expect to see the swing take on a silvery tint over time, and to see small cracks. But don’t worry, they won’t affect the structural integrity of the swing. To help preserve it, rub in a coat of tung oil every so often, and take it inside over the winter.

As for hanging it, well, this part’s up to you. We can give you tips (in the next paragraph), but let us be blunt about this: We’re not liable for how and where you choose to hang the swing, nor if the swing is being used in a careless manner. Buy purchasing this swing, you’re agreeing that you are responsible for how the swing is hung, inspected, and any other risks associated with its use. 

So now, onto the advice...

Look for a tree branch that’s sturdy and living. Make sure it’s high enough off the ground. Once you’ve selected a branch, tie the rope to it (a rolling hitch knot is supposed to be the best). Tie the swing to the rope at the desired height, and repeat on the other side. (Rope not included.)

First, two pieces of cedar are glued together, and then the breadboard ends are cut, which is achieved by cutting the end tenons on the table saw, then cutting a precisely-matching mortise with a dado stack (or a bunch of saw blades used simultaneously). Next, it’s all glued together, holes are drilled for the rope, and an inset space between the two holes is cut on the underside to allow the rope to lie flat. Finally, it’s sanded, treated with tung oil, and threaded with rope tied in a hangman’s knot that’s been whipped at the ends for added security.

Please email support@kaufmann-mercantile.com.  We reply to every email promptly. Or call us at 347 529 5122.

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