How to Make an Artificial Tree Branch for a Swing?

If you have kids at home, you are likely to install a swing on the tree. Unfortunately, some yard trees do not have branches to hang that. In such cases, attaching fake branches to the trunk comes in handy! But how to make an artificial tree branch for a swing?

Attaching and drilling wood or metal beams into the trunk makes a faux or fake branch. But this DIY project requires attention for proper measurement and placement. To get into their details, stay here as today, I’ll describe the process.

How to Make an Artificial Tree Branch for a Swing?

 Making a fake tree branch is all about proper leveling and securing. To know the detailed process of constructing an instant tree branch for a swing, keep on reading –

 Step 1: Choose the Faux Branch Material

 For the faux or fake branch, you need to choose beams made of resistant and sturdy wood or metal. They should be 2×6 in measurement and at least 6 feet long. Make sure the layer of the faux can withstand any heavy nailing or drilling and alterations while attaching them to the swing.

Step 2: Pick a Sturdy Tree

 The tree you attach the fake branch and swing to should be sturdy and healthy enough. This is because it needs to securely support the weight of the persons on the swing and the artificial branch. It is better to avoid trees that show symptoms of decay. 

Pick a tree with a larger trunk and a thick diameter of at least 12 inches. And the plant should not be too young or old to avoid hazards. The young trees will not hold the weight of the swing and additional materials.

And the old ones can be too dry and weak to nail or drill on them for the faux.

Step 3: Select the Location for the Branch 

Whether the swing is for kids or adults, the artificial branch should not be too high from the ground. Otherwise, hanging the swing on the fake branch will be way more challenging.

And the worst thing is that installing the faux too high can increase its chance of falling off. So, choose a location on the tree that is 7 to 10 feet above the ground.

Step 4:   Drill a Hole in the Fake Branch

On the beam or faux, you will need a hole to attach it to the trunk. For that, ensure to wear gloves and safety goggles to protect you from flying wooden chips. Then, with a drill or chisel, drill a hole in the middle of the beam, which is 16 inches from the end of the faux.

Step 5: Place the Fake Branch

You will need help from a young adult to hold and place the faux branch against the tree trunk. Both of you make a grip on the plank and hold it horizontally against the trunk spot determined to attach the branch with. Make sure to keep the hole of the plank against the trunk.

To keep the swing safe and stable, the hanging part of the faux should be 3 to 6 feet long. And the part should be parallel to the ground after placing the beam or faux.

Step 6: Attach the Plank

While one of you holds the plank against the trunk, drill a 4 inch hole into the trunk. Screw bolts to attach the beam with the trunk at a tight yet moveable angle.

Step 7: Level and Drill

Before tightening the plank for security, make it parallel to the soil level. Otherwise, the swing will lean or slip.

Then, keep a gap of 3 to 5 inches from the first hole and drill two more holes. Once you drill through the upper left and right side of the first hole, screw two bolts. And turn the three bolts enough to tighten them.

Step 8: Hang the Swing

Now that the artificial branch is ready, it is time to test its holding capacity. So, attach the two sides of the swing ropes to the end of the plank installed. There should be a 2 to 3 feet gap from the tree trunk while hooking the ropes.

If the height of the installed swing seems ideal or your kid can touch the ground from the swing, secure the rope with straps, hooks, and knots. And if the swing is stable and well-protected, you are done making the fake branch!

How to Make an Artificial Tree Branch for Two Trees to Hang a Swing?

Constructing an artificial branch using two trees is easier. So, if you want a more stable swing and fewer effort inputs, follow these short steps –

• Choose two trees older than a decade standing in front of each other. And their trunks should be at least 10 to 13 inches thicker. They should be 5 meters away from one another.

• Pick a crossbeam that is longer than the distance of the trees.

• Mark two spots that are 8 to 10 feet above the ground on the trees and place the plank horizontally between them.

• On two ends of the beam, drill four holes through the thickest part of the trunk.

• Follow steps 7 and 8 described above, and you have your sturdy artificial branch that holds the swing.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Making Your Own Artificial Branch?

You can hesitate to build a fake branch, thinking about whether it will be worth it or not. So, let me walk you through the pros and cons of the project, helping you decide with ease:

Pros:

• Real branches limit the spot you want to hang your swing at. But with a faux branch, you can decide which tree spot can be the sports or outdoor activity area.

• Cheaper than a tree trunk swing bracket.

• It is removable so that you can keep changing the swing spot.

• Not harmful to the tree trunk or environment.

• It takes less time to install swings on artificial branches.

Cons:

• The project requires two adults to complete it safely.

• The benefits of a faux branch overpower the inconveniences. So, you should definitely give it a try.

Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q’s):

Conclusion

Homeowners without sturdy tree branches in their yards often wonder how to make an artificial tree branch for a swing, especially if they want to arrange fun sitting arrangements outside. And to get into the process, all you need is a plank, drill, safety gears, bolts, and screws. 

I’d strongly suggest you study the nature of the tree before making a fake branch for it. Otherwise, the efforts will go in vain if the tree cannot support the branch.