Introduction
If you want a simple woodworking project that makes children happy and upgrades your backyard, a wooden kids seesaw is a great choice. This design is balanced, comfortable, and safe, with a clean look that fits any outdoor space. Below you’ll find the tools and materials, a concise build walkthrough, safety notes, and finishing tips. If you need a printable PDF plan with diagrams and step-by-step images, you can add the download link at the end.
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Alt text suggestion: wooden kids seesaw assembled in a garden
Why this design stands out
The base is wide and the pivot is centered for dependable stability, assembly is straightforward with straight cuts so beginners can succeed, seats are smooth with round hand grips for comfort, the length and finish can be customized to match your space, and the project looks great on lawn, patio, or deck when protected with outdoor stain and sealer. Keywords included naturally: wooden seesaw plan, DIY woodworking, garden play equipment, kids outdoor toy.
Materials and tools
Materials: exterior-grade solid wood such as pressure-treated pine or cedar, corrosion-resistant screws, a steel pivot rod with washers and nuts, exterior wood glue, outdoor stain and a clear sealer.
Tools: handsaw or circular saw, drill/driver with bits, square and measuring tape, sander, sanding sheets, brush or rag for finish.
Download the plan
Alt text suggestion: close-up of the base and pivot detail of a wooden seesaw
Build steps (concise)
Step 1: Cut the base rails and cross pieces. Keep all corners square so the frame sits flat on the ground.
Step 2: Assemble the base frame. Apply exterior glue at joints and drive screws, then check for racking and correct it before the glue sets.
Step 3: Prepare the uprights that hold the pivot. Mark the pivot height on both uprights and drill clean, centered holes at the exact same height.
Step 4: Build the main beam (seesaw arm). Join the long members, round over edges for comfort, and sand until smooth.
Step 5: Fit the pivot. Slide the rod through one upright, the beam, and the second upright, then add washers and nuts. The arm should swing freely without side play.
Step 6: Install seats and hand grips. Shape seat blanks with eased edges, mount them securely, and add round dowel handles at each end.
Step 7: Balance and limit travel. Test motion without kids; adjust the pivot position or add discreet stops so the beam cannot strike the ground hard.
Step 8: Sand and finish. Remove all sharp edges, apply outdoor stain, then seal after the stain dries for weather protection.
Alt text suggestion: finished wooden seesaw with smooth seats and round handles
Safety notes
Adult supervision is required during use; place the seesaw on level ground with soft grass or mulch beneath; keep edges smooth and re-sand if any splinters appear; inspect screws, pivot hardware, and seats regularly and re-tighten if needed; stop use immediately if you notice cracks, wobble at the pivot, or loose joints.
Finishing and maintenance
For a durable outdoor look, apply an exterior stain to highlight the grain and follow with a clear outdoor sealer. Wipe off standing water after rain, store the seesaw under cover in winter if possible, and refresh a light coat of sealer every one to two seasons depending on climate.
FAQ
Is this build beginner-friendly? Yes. The cuts are straight and the process is simple; accuracy matters most at the pivot holes.
What wood should I choose? Use weather-resistant species like cedar or pressure-treated pine for outdoor durability.
How do I keep it balanced? Center the pivot near the middle of the beam and test carefully; shift the pivot slightly if one side dominates, and use travel stops to prevent hard ground contact.
Download the plan
Need a print-ready PDF with measured drawings and step-by-step images?
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Conclusion
A wooden kids seesaw is a fun, practical backyard upgrade and a friendly project for new woodworkers. Follow the steps, keep safety first, and protect the wood with outdoor finishes. With basic tools and careful assembly, you’ll get a sturdy, attractive play feature that lasts for years.