How to Make a Bucket Swing for a Toddler

Measure and mark the 1 x 2 lumber into two 1 ½-foot pieces and two 1-foot pieces. Double check your measurements and then put on your safety goggles. Use the hand saw to cut the lumber where the marks are.

Make a square with the four pieces of lumber. Apply wood glue to the four corners and then nail the corners together to secure the square. Wipe off any excess wood glue and allow it to dry.

Put a toddler (in a standing position) in the middle of a flat, large piece of the canvas. Mark the spots where the leg holes will need to be cut. Measure the toddler from the outside of the upper thigh to the middle of the rib cage on each side of their body. Cut the leg holes and use the measurements of the toddler to mark and cut the height of the canvas. Use industrial strength thread and thread the needle. Sew a smooth hem on the inside of the leg holes.

Attach the lumber square to the inside of the top of the canvas with a staple gun. Fold the excess canvas over the lumber square and sew to the inside. You should now have a "bucket" with the leg holes on the bottom and the lumber square at the top.

Cut two small holes (in the canvas, directly below the lumber) on each side of the bucket approximately two inches apart. Attach the metal hole reinforcements on the inside of these holes.

Thread four lengths of rope through each hole reinforcement and knot the ends securely. Use the four loose ends to secure the bucket swing to a tree or swing set frame.