Swing Set Makeover – Castle Edition

In this DIY swing set makeover, we will turn back the clock to Medieval times. Knights, swords, flags, and…a t-rex? Ok, sure, a t-rex, why not?

(stay tuned to the end to watch the video!)

I wanted this to be an easy project, so I used plastic party table cloths for the fake stone base of the vinyl swing set. I found that taping on the end with clear plastic tape and then pulling it tight worked better than using double-sided tape.

This part took the longest, and the most challenging part proved to be getting the plastic tight enough to keep creases at bay. I then cut the excess off the bottom. For how short the decorating took and how little it cost, I was delighted with the transformation the swing set experienced!

Note: The set I used had a clubhouse under the tower. This helped provide stability and durability. While this would work with a standard tower, I believe you would want to start with a dark fabric or cloth to help block light from passing through.

Next, I knew I wanted to create a dungeon underneath the tower. I got some old light stands from Goodwill and then purchased flame light bulbs. The result exceeded my expectation, and the stands with the flickering lights decorated my desk before the actual shoot occurred.

The pendants were generic and simple to hang with the power of the almighty command hook.

Next, I knew I wanted to create a dungeon underneath the tower. I got some old light stands from Goodwill and then purchased flame light bulbs. The result exceeded my expectation, and the stands with the flickering lights decorated my desk before the actual shoot occurred.

The pendants were generic and simple to hang with the power of the almighty command hook.

The highlight for the kids was, of course, the costumes and weapons. All of these were purchased off of Amazon. The bows fire very well, and I would recommend safety glasses. The weapons hit hard; they are for creative play, not sparing with siblings!

The no-hitting changed with the t-rex showed up! Having not tested it beforehand, I was pleased to discover the suit resisted direct hits from the bows, but I would still wear glasses on the inside. The suite, however, did not cushion blows! My kids proved to be more than a match for the t-rex! They defended their swing set with honor!

This setup doesn’t take long to put together, and my kids have a blast. This swing set makeover would be great for parties, special occasions with friends, or spice up outside play!

Watch the end result below!