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How to Tie a Swing to a Limb

A rope swing in the backyard, attached to the overhanging limb of a large tree is an iconic image from American history. If you wish to tie your own swing to a limb to create a tree swing, it is important to secure the swing to the tree with a secure hitch which will not come undone under the weight of a swinger. The running bowline hitch is an easy hitch to tie and secures snugly to the tree.

Things You'll Need

Rope swing

Instructions

- 1
  Hang the end of one of the ropes attached to the swing over the limb. The end draped over the limb is your loose end.
- 2
  Bend the loose end of the rope around in front of itself, creating a small loop in the rope, then pass the loose end in front of the rope extending from the swing up to the tree limb. This creates a large loop, in addition to the small loop.
- 3
  Pass the loose end behind the section of loop running from the swing to the limb then through the small loop.
- 4
  Pass the loose end through the large loop, coming through the loop from behind.
- 5
  Weave the loose end back through the small loop again.
- 6
  Pull on the section of rope running from the swing to the limb. This will cause the hitch tied to tighten against the limb.
- 7
  Repeat the hitch with the second rope attached to the other side of the swing.

Backyard Toys