Porch Swings / The Exotic ION Porch Swing
The Exotic ION Porch Swing
We call it the Exotic ION because all the wood is Sapele — a premium African hardwood with a rich reddish-brown color and striking ribbon grain, finished in marine-grade spar varnish rather than paint. This is one swing you'll never want to cover up. 100% satisfaction guaranteed.
$2400
Ropes (optional): + $200
Installation (optional): + $350
Custom cushions (optional): Pricing varies
Craftsmanship & Details
We call it the Exotic ION because all the wood is Sapele — a premium African hardwood prized for its rich reddish-brown color, beautiful ribbon grain, and exceptional durability. Naturally resistant to moisture, decay, and insects, it performs exceptionally well in outdoor environments while adding a warm, luxurious look that ages beautifully over time. We special-order the Sapele milled to 1⅝" × 1⅝" for the arms and back horizontal slats — our smallest profile, able to fit into the tightest spaces or scale up for a larger porch. The frame is made of 1½" × 3½" Sapele, with front posts at 18 inches and back posts at 26 inches.
We build every porch swing using traditional mortise-and-tenon joinery, reinforced at every corner with 6-inch construction lag screws. Charleston's humidity puts real stress on wood joints over time — even a well-cut mortise and tenon can work loose as the wood expands and contracts through our seasons. The lag screws are our answer to that: they lock each joint firmly in place, so your swing stays solid and tight for years to come, not just when it's new.
The 1⅝" × 1⅝" Sapele profile runs all around, complementing the 1½" × 3½" frame, with a 26" back height. We customize the length and depth to fit your porch space — normal depth is usually between 32" and 38". This is one swing you'll never want to paint: Sapele's rich color and striking ribbon grain are simply too beautiful to cover. Instead, we enhance its natural character and protect it with a marine-grade spar varnish, which highlights the wood's depth and luster while providing superior protection against UV rays, moisture, and the coastal elements, helping preserve its warm, vibrant color for years to come.
Materials & Specs
Customization Options
Online pricing reflects swings up to Twin size (75"×38") or smaller. If you choose a Twin XL (80"×38") or a larger custom size, additional fees will apply depending on the final dimensions.
Every Exotic ION is finished with marine-grade spar varnish to showcase Sapele's natural color and grain. It is not painted — the wood's beauty is the finish.
Four 1-inch Pro-Manila ropes, whipped at both ends to prevent fraying. (+$200)
Full installation of your new swing at your home. (+$350)
We work with a wonderful local seamstress. Pricing varies depending on custom requirements.
How It Works
From Consultation to Your Porch in About 3 Weeks
We'll review size, ropes, installation, and cushion options during your free consultation.
Let us help create your new favorite place to relax in comfort and Lowcountry style.
Frequently Asked Questions
What wood is the Exotic ION made from?
The Exotic ION is built entirely from Sapele — a premium African hardwood known for its rich reddish-brown color, striking ribbon grain, and exceptional natural durability. It's naturally resistant to moisture, decay, and insects, making it an outstanding choice for an outdoor swing on the coast.
Why isn't the Exotic ION painted?
Sapele's rich color and striking ribbon grain are simply too beautiful to cover. Instead, we finish it with a marine-grade spar varnish, which highlights the wood's depth and luster while protecting it from UV rays, moisture, and the coastal elements.
What is the difference between the Exotic ION and the Painted ION?
Both share the same slim 1⅝" × 1⅝" profile, but the material and finish are different. The Painted ION is built from primed pine and finished in any Sherwin-Williams color you choose. The Exotic ION is built from Sapele hardwood and finished with spar varnish to showcase the natural wood.
What size should I choose?
The Twin (75"×38") is our most popular size for two adults. If you have a smaller porch or want a swing for one, the Small Single (75"×30") is a great fit. We'll measure your space at the consultation and give you a clear recommendation.
How long does it take to receive my swing?
Most swings are delivered within 3 weeks of placing your order. We'll confirm the exact timeline at your consultation.
Do you deliver and install in the Charleston area?
Yes. We serve Mount Pleasant, Charleston, Daniel Island, James Island, Sullivan's Island, Isle of Palms, and the surrounding Lowcountry. Installation is available as an add-on for $350 and includes full hanging and leveling at your home.
What if I'm not happy with it?
Every Dainty Leaf swing comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. We stand behind our craftsmanship and we want you to love what we build for you.