Transform Your Miniature Space with a DIY Porch Swing

Okay… I know I always say this, but this might be one of my favorite details I’ve added so far.

There’s just something about a porch swing that instantly makes a space feel cozy and like home. And once I hung this up and added the cushion? It gave exactly the vibe I was going for.

Also, this was one of those projects where I got to mix a little bit of everything: 3D printing, textiles, and installation. It might look like a lot of steps, but once you get into it, it’s actually really fun to put together.

Materials Needed

• Porch swing (3D print file available here)
• Chain
• Foam board
• Fabric
• Aleene’s Fabric Glue
• Felt
• Needle nose pliers
• Scissors
• Screw eye
• Mini hand drill

Adding the Chain to the Swing

1. Print the Porch Swing
   Start by printing the porch swing using the 3D file (this is my custom design, available for download).
2. Thread the Chain
   Starting on one side, fish the chain through the back hole of the swing, under the arm, and up through the front hole.
3. Adjust the Length
   Use needle nose pliers to connect the chain at your desired height.
4. Test the Placement
   Hold the swing up to the ceiling where you plan to install it to gauge the length.
5. Trim Excess Chain
   Remove any extra chain once you’re happy with the height. Remember to take the screw eye into account for installation.
6. Repeat on the Other Side
   Follow the same steps for the left side of the swing.

Creating the Cushion

1. Make a Template
   Create a template of the inside seat area of the swing.
2. Cut Base Pieces
   Trace the template onto felt and two pieces of foam board.
3. Build the Base
   Glue the foam board pieces together to create structure.
4. Wrap the Sides
   Cut fabric to cover the sides of the cushion and glue it in place.
   Make small incisions in the fabric so it lays flat and wraps cleanly.
5. Repeat for Opposite Side
   Continue wrapping until all sides are covered.
6. Add the Top Layer
   Glue felt to the top of the cushion for a soft, slightly padded finish.
7. Finish the Edges
   Cut additional fabric with about a ¼” allowance and glue or sew it down to create clean, finished edges.
8. Wrap the Cushion
   Glue the remaining fabric around the cushion until fully covered.

Installing the Swing

1. Mark Placement
   Use a tack to create small guide holes in the ceiling where the swing will hang.
2. Drill Pilot Holes
   Use a mini hand drill to create pilot holes for easier installation.
3. Install Screw Eyes
   Screw the hooks into the ceiling.
4. Attach the Chain
   Use pliers to connect the chain to the screw eyes and secure the swing in place.

Final Thoughts

This is one of those pieces that just makes everything feel complete.

Like… once the swing is in, it’s giving . . . front porch moment.

It adds movement, texture, and that cozy detail that makes the whole space feel intentional. And the fact that you can customize the cushion, the fabric, even the height. It’s such a good opportunity to make it your own.

Take your time with it, have fun with the styling, and don’t overthink it. Once it’s up, you’re going to be like… yeah, this was worth it.