Old porch swings

Robin
by Robin
I have 2 very old porch swings that have been in my family for a few generations. I really can't use them for actual swings but don't want to throw them away. Any ideas on how to give them a new life?
  11 answers
  • Tammy Lynn West Tammy Lynn West on Aug 23, 2015
    make them benches
  • Kaylen Ranquist Turner Kaylen Ranquist Turner on Aug 23, 2015
    I am looking, but I don't see a pic of them?
  • Betty Farnsworth Betty Farnsworth on Aug 23, 2015
    depends on which part you are using the frame or the seat
  • Mary Mary on Aug 23, 2015
    I have an old porch swing that is too fragile to sit on. It hangs from an old metal A-frame. I raised the height to about waist high and use it as if it were a shelf. Right now it is displaying my watering can collection. Depending on your swings, maybe you could hang one above the other and use in this was too!
  • Robin Robin on Aug 23, 2015
    Great idea, thank you!
  • Suzette Trimmer Suzette Trimmer on Aug 23, 2015
    Place them in a bay window area or use them as seats supported from underneath is your best bet. I would clean them up double check all hardware for damage rust etc.first though. I coating of protection would probably be called for as well to be assured you are caring for these heirlooms to the best of your ability. Good for you for NOT throwing them out and for letting others see and enjoy a bit of your history.
    • See 1 previous
    • Suzette Trimmer Suzette Trimmer on Aug 23, 2015
      @Robin try contacting Mr. Alan Korb re: your swings his direct # is 603-860-5336. He is an expert and good friend whom I always call when confronted with all or any antique I want to restore savage and keep. He is one of the BEST around, he is solid smart honest and reliable, what else could you want? I hope I have helped you a little.
  • Karen V Karen V on Aug 23, 2015
    Cut a piece of plywood to fit seat area; use to put potted flower garden on. Maybe repaint metal frame too........just a thought :)
  • Funnygirl Funnygirl on Aug 23, 2015
    I saw a great tip,if the chain is rusted,cut some pool noodles open,and cover the chains with the pool noodles,Kind of like you are insulating a pipe.Colorful too!
  • Linda Jowers Linda Jowers on Aug 24, 2015
    How about using them to make into a garden plant/work table for potting, seeding, etc. & display of tools, pots/plants, etc. Could be on a porch or inside a garage for protection if needed, or paint for outside use. I can picture it, but would not be able to get my husband to it put together. Look around Hometalk & Pinterest for similar ones made from all types of leftover & pallet wood. If you have an outside storage unit, they could possibly be used on the side[s] - again for pots & plant displays. Have fun with them whatever you do!
  • Marion Nesbitt Marion Nesbitt on Aug 24, 2015
    These have a sentimental value. I'd forget the swing part, and get them refurbished as benches.
  • Kayo Frazier Kayo Frazier on Aug 24, 2015
    Ok, here's my 2 cents...You could turn them into seating for your porch or yard. Check to see if there are any parts that have loose pieces, and fix them first. Then you can create out of 2x4's a base to place the swing on top. Then you can get or make cushions to sit on & add throw pillows.
    • Linda Jowers Linda Jowers on Aug 26, 2015
      @Kayo Frazier Good idea from you & Marion Nesbitt. Prob best under a porch or patio cover