Handmade Carved Oak Rope Swing

Take your feet off terra firma and swing from a tree branch – you owe it to summer. This swing is made from reclaimed oak dunnage (the wood used to line ship holds to protect precious cargo). The graceful curve of the swing was inspired by lakeside lifeguarding, wooden life preservers, and the buoyant arc of a boat.

“There's something about smooth round wooden objects that I find very satisfying. The curves almost seem to be informed by the grain of the wood. It all probably comes from a place of childhood nostalgia,” says Casey Dzierlenga, the swing’s creator.

Casey hails from North Carolina, but now lives and works in upstate New York. All swings are made to order. Please allow ten days for delivery.

Like most people, this swing will get silvery-gray over time – it’s the nature of a swing exposed to nature. But, if you want to extend the life of the wood, it doesn’t hurt to throw on a coat of tung oil. You should also take the swing inside over the winter. Generally speaking though, a change in color or minor cracks from being outside won’t affect the structural integrity of the swing.

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. By 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. (See official disclaimer in the specs!)

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.)

The wood starts out thick as a small barn beam. It’s run through a joiner to get the right angle and a smooth surface, and then it’s resawn on a bandsaw. It’s cut to the right measurements, and glued to another piece. Next, holes are drilled for the rope, and then it’s carved using an electric plane. It’s shaped with a file, then sanded and treated with tung oil. Rope is threaded through the holes, tied in a hangman’s knot, and 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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