How to Build a Canopy for a Wood Swing

Measure the height of the ceiling and measure the height that you want the four posts of your canopy to be. Measure the length of the cross rail from the back canopy post to the front post which will serve as a bracket. Measure the width of the canopy as well as the side of the canopy. Measure the number of dowels you will need to make a lattice pattern with the dowels in the center and sides of the canopy. Measure the amount of fabric you will need to cover the canopy.

Get a lumber yard to cut the dowels to the lengths you require. Once they have been cut, make a frame by fixing the dowels together. The frame should look like a upturned table with a hollow center. Fix the dowels together using 4-inch stove bolts. You can ask a friend to hold the dowels in place while you fit the frame together.

Fix the two cross rails. Fix the bottom of the cross rail on the center of the dowel with stove bolts. Repeat the procedure on the other side of the canopy. The cross rail can overlap the two posts and still look attractive.

Hammer the short dowels that you measured into an attractive lattice. The short dowels can overlap the frame dowels to give it a more attractive and rustic look. The lattice should be inserted in the hollow of the upturned framework and between the two posts on either side.

Sew the hem of the fabric that will cover the canopy overhead. Sew an attractive frill with the same material all around the canopy. Polyester or vinyl fabric is preferable because they are waterproof and you can swing safely even if it rains. Stretch the cover over the canopy.