Repurpose Old Swing Set Frames: Creative Ideas for Your Backyard

Linda Jul 20, 2026
an outdoor garden with many plants growing in the ground and on top of it is a green trellis
an outdoor garden with many plants growing in the ground and on top of it is a green trellis

When it comes to dealing with old swing set frames, many homeowners are left wondering what to do with them. The structure, which once brought joy to children, now stands as a reminder of a bygone era. Rather than letting it collect dust, you can repurpose it in various ways to create a functional and visually appealing addition to your backyard or home.

an outdoor garden with many plants growing in the ground and on top of it is a green trellis
an outdoor garden with many plants growing in the ground and on top of it is a green trellis

The first step in deciding what to do with your old swing set frame is to assess its condition. If it's still sturdy and in good shape, you can consider repurposing it as a planter or a trellis for climbing plants. This way, you can breathe new life into the old structure and create a beautiful garden feature.

Back yard decorating ideas
Back yard decorating ideas

Repurposing the Frame as a Planter

One of the most straightforward ways to repurpose your old swing set frame is to convert it into a planter. You can attach a wooden or metal grid to the frame to create a planter box. This will not only add a decorative element to your garden but also provide a space for plants to grow.

Double Decker Greenhouse Garden
Double Decker Greenhouse Garden

When repurposing your old swing set frame as a planter, consider using a variety of plants that complement each other in terms of color, texture, and growth habits. This will create a visually appealing display that adds beauty to your garden. You can also add a trellis or a support system to help climbing plants like ivy or roses grow.

Using the Frame as a Vertical Garden

Repurpose
Repurpose

Another creative way to repurpose your old swing set frame is to turn it into a vertical garden. You can attach a series of planters or a living wall system to the frame, creating a lush and vibrant display of plants. This is perfect for small gardens or balconies, as it makes the most of available space.

When creating a vertical garden, consider using plants with varying textures and colors to add visual interest. You can also incorporate a trellis or a support system to help climbing plants grow upwards, creating a stunning display of foliage.

Using the Frame as a Trellis

Before and after swing set makeover - The Vanderveen House
Before and after swing set makeover - The Vanderveen House

Another option for repurposing your old swing set frame is to convert it into a trellis. You can attach a series of horizontal or vertical bars to the frame, creating a structure that supports climbing plants like roses, clematis, or honeysuckle.

When using your old swing set frame as a trellis, consider incorporating a variety of plants that complement each other in terms of color, texture, and growth habits. This will create a visually appealing display that adds beauty to your garden. You can also add a support system to help the plants grow upwards.

Creating a Birdhouse or Bird Feeder

What to Do with an Old Wooden Swing Set | Fire Dawgs
What to Do with an Old Wooden Swing Set | Fire Dawgs

Another creative way to repurpose your old swing set frame is to turn it into a birdhouse or bird feeder. You can attach a series of perches or a feeding station to the frame, creating a haven for birds and other wildlife.

When creating a birdhouse or bird feeder, consider using materials like wood or recycled plastic to create a structure that's durable and long-lasting. You can also incorporate a variety of features like perches, nesting boxes, or a feeding station to make it more attractive to birds.

Old Swing Make Over
Old Swing Make Over
an upside down swing set is shown in three different pictures, and the bottom one has been
an upside down swing set is shown in three different pictures, and the bottom one has been
How you can transform an old children's swing set
How you can transform an old children's swing set
there is a swing set in the yard with a tarp covering it's back
there is a swing set in the yard with a tarp covering it's back
13 Things To Do With An Old Wooden Swing Set (2026)
13 Things To Do With An Old Wooden Swing Set (2026)
How to Repurpose an Old Swingset for a Swingin’ Arbor
How to Repurpose an Old Swingset for a Swingin’ Arbor
Swing Set for Grown Ups
Swing Set for Grown Ups

Adding a Birdhouse or Nesting Box

One of the most essential features of a birdhouse or bird feeder is a nesting box or a roosting area. You can attach a series of nesting boxes or a roosting area to the frame, creating a haven for birds to raise their young or roost.

When adding a nesting box or a roosting area, consider using materials like wood or recycled plastic to create a structure that's durable and long-lasting. You can also incorporate a variety of features like ventilation, insulation, or a predator guard to make it more attractive to birds.

Adding a Feeding Station

Another essential feature of a birdhouse or bird feeder is a feeding station. You can attach a series of perches or a feeding station to the frame, creating a haven for birds to feed and thrive.

When adding a feeding station, consider using materials like wood or recycled plastic to create a structure that's durable and long-lasting. You can also incorporate a variety of features like a tray or a dish to make it more attractive to birds.

Ultimately, the decision of what to do with your old swing set frame depends on your creativity and resourcefulness. Whether you choose to repurpose it as a planter, a trellis, or a birdhouse, you can create a functional and visually appealing addition to your backyard or home. So, get creative and give your old swing set frame a new lease on life!