Introduction
Cornhole, also known as bean bag toss, is a popular outdoor game that’s perfect for family gatherings, barbecues, and tailgating parties. Making your own cornhole game set can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. This guide will take you through the process step by step, from gathering materials to the final touches.
Cornhole is a lawn game in which players take turns throwing bags filled with corn kernels or beans at a raised platform with a hole in its far end. The goal is to score points by landing the bags on the board or getting them through the hole. While it might seem simple, the game requires a combination of skill, strategy, and a bit of luck, making it enjoyable for all ages.
Creating your own cornhole game set not only provides a sense of accomplishment but also allows for customization to match your personal style or team colors. Let’s dive into the details of making a cornhole game set that will provide hours of entertainment.
Materials and Tools Needed
Materials:
- Plywood: A 4×2 foot piece of 1/2-inch thick plywood for the board surface.
- 2×4 Lumber: Eight feet of 2×4 lumber for the frame.
- Screws: 2 1/2-inch wood screws for assembling the frame.
- Bolts: 3/8-inch carriage bolts, washers, and nuts for the legs.
- Paint or Stain: For customizing your board.
- Bean Bags: Eight bags, ideally filled with dried corn or beans.
Tools:
- Saw: A circular saw or jigsaw for cutting the wood.
- Drill: With drill bits and a hole saw attachment.
- Measuring Tape: For accurate measurements.
- Sandpaper: To smooth the surfaces and edges.
- Paint Brushes or Rollers: For painting or staining the board.
- Clamps: To hold pieces in place while assembling.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cutting the Plywood
Start by cutting the plywood to the correct size. The official dimensions for a cornhole board are 4 feet long by 2 feet wide. Use a circular saw or jigsaw to make precise cuts. Ensure the edges are smooth and even by sanding them with sandpaper.
Step 2: Building the Frame
Using the 2×4 lumber, cut the pieces for the frame. You’ll need two 4-foot pieces and two 21-inch pieces. These will form the outer edge of the frame, providing stability to the plywood top.
Assemble the Frame:
- Lay the 2×4 pieces on a flat surface in a rectangle shape.
- Attach the shorter pieces (21 inches) between the longer pieces (4 feet) using wood screws.
- Ensure the frame is square by measuring the diagonals; they should be equal.
Step 3: Attaching the Plywood to the Frame
Once the frame is assembled, place the plywood on top and align the edges. Secure the plywood to the frame using wood screws, spaced about 8 inches apart. Make sure the screws are flush with the surface of the plywood to prevent any bumps.
Step 4: Cutting the Hole
The hole in a cornhole board should be 6 inches in diameter and centered 9 inches from the top edge of the board.
- Mark the Center: Measure and mark the center point for the hole.
- Drill the Hole: Using a 6-inch hole saw attachment on your drill, cut out the hole. If you don’t have a hole saw, you can drill a starter hole and use a jigsaw to cut out the circle.
Step 5: Smoothing the Surface
Sand the entire surface of the board, including the hole, to ensure it’s smooth. This step is crucial to prevent any snags on the bean bags and to prepare the board for painting or staining.
Step 6: Adding the Legs
The legs of the cornhole board need to allow the board to be angled, with the back being higher than the front.
- Cut the Legs: Cut two 2×4 pieces to 12 inches in length.
- Attach the Legs: Drill a hole through the top of each leg and the side of the frame where the legs will attach. Use a carriage bolt, washers, and a nut to attach the legs, allowing them to pivot. Test the legs to ensure they fold in and out easily.
Step 7: Painting or Staining
Customize your cornhole board with paint or stain. This step is where you can let your creativity shine. You can use stencils to add designs or team logos. Make sure to apply a clear coat finish to protect the paint or stain and make the surface slick for better gameplay.
Step 8: Making the Bean Bags
Cornhole bags are typically 6 inches square and filled with dried corn or beans.
- Cut the Fabric: Use a durable fabric like duck cloth. Cut 16 squares, each measuring 7×7 inches.
- Sew the Bags: Place two squares together and sew around the edges, leaving a small opening. Turn the bag inside out, fill it with about 1 pound of dried corn or beans, and sew the opening shut.
Tips for Playing Cornhole
- Setup: Place the boards 27 feet apart for regulation play.
- Scoring: Landing a bag on the board scores 1 point, while getting a bag through the hole scores 3 points.
- Game Play: Players or teams take turns throwing bags, and the first to 21 points wins.
Conclusion
Creating your own cornhole game set is a straightforward and enjoyable project that can enhance your outdoor gatherings. By following these steps, you can build a high-quality set that reflects your personal style and provides endless entertainment. Whether you’re a seasoned cornhole player or new to the game, having your own custom set will make your outdoor events more enjoyable. Happy tossing!