Constructing cornhole boards is a rewarding do-it-yourself project that can provide hours of outdoor entertainment. Whether you’re a seasoned carpenter or a novice enthusiast, building your own cornhole boards is a satisfying experience. This comprehensive guide will lead you through the steps involved, from gathering the necessary materials to assembling and finishing your custom cornhole boards. So, gather your tools, prepare your workspace, and let’s embark on this exciting journey together!
Firstly, you’ll need to gather the necessary materials for your cornhole boards. The primary materials include sturdy plywood sheets for the playing surfaces and legs, 2×4 lumber for framing, wood screws or nails, and a durable paint or stain. Additionally, you may choose to incorporate embellishments such as cornhole bags, decals, or a custom design to personalize your boards. Once you have all the materials assembled, it’s time to prepare your workspace. Choose a well-ventilated area with ample room to maneuver and set up your tools, materials, and measuring equipment.
Now that you have your materials and workspace ready, it’s time to embark on the construction process. Begin by cutting the plywood sheets to the desired size and shape for the playing surfaces and legs. Next, assemble the frames using the 2×4 lumber and secure them with wood screws or nails. Once the frames are complete, attach the playing surfaces to the frames and reinforce the joints for added durability. Allow the glue to dry completely before proceeding to the next step. Finally, it’s time to add the finishing touches to your cornhole boards. Apply a weather-resistant paint or stain to protect the boards from the elements and enhance their aesthetic appeal. You can also customize your boards with cornhole bags, decals, or a unique design that reflects your personal style.
Materials You’ll Need
Begin by gathering all the essential materials for constructing your own cornhole boards. Below is a detailed list of what you’ll require:
Plywood
The plywood will serve as the base for your cornhole boards. It is recommended to use 1/2-inch thick plywood for optimal strength and durability. Choose a high-quality plywood that is free from warping or knots to ensure a smooth and level playing surface. Plywood is commonly available in standard 4×8-foot sheets, providing ample material for both boards.
2×4 Lumber
2×4 lumber will be used to construct the frame of the cornhole boards. These will provide support and stability to the plywood base. Opt for sturdy and straight 2x4s to create a solid framework. The length of the 2x4s will depend on the desired size of your cornhole boards. For standard-sized boards, cut eight 2x4s to a length of 24 inches.
Wood Screws
Wood screws will be used to secure the 2x4s to the plywood base. Choose galvanized or stainless steel wood screws for exterior use, as they will resist rust and corrosion. Select screws that are at least 1 1/2 inches long for adequate strength. You will need approximately 32 screws for each cornhole board.
Sandpaper
Sandpaper will be used to smooth the edges of the plywood and 2x4s, ensuring a splinter-free and polished finish. Use 120-grit sandpaper for general smoothing and 220-grit sandpaper for a refined finish.
Measuring Tape or Ruler
A measuring tape or ruler will be essential for accurately measuring and marking cuts on the plywood and 2x4s. Ensure you have a precise measuring tool to guarantee the correct dimensions for your cornhole boards.
Carpenter’s Pencil or Marking Tool
A carpenter’s pencil or marking tool will be used to mark the cutting lines and assembly points on the plywood and 2x4s. Choose a sharp and durable marking tool for clear and accurate markings.
Circular Saw or Jigsaw
A circular saw or jigsaw will be needed to cut the plywood and 2x4s to the desired dimensions. Choose a power saw that is suitable for cutting wood and handle it with caution and precision.
Drill or Screwdriver
A drill or screwdriver will be used to drive the wood screws into the plywood and 2x4s. Select a drill or screwdriver with enough power to penetrate the wood securely.
Constructing the Frames
The frames are the foundation of your cornhole boards, so it’s important to build them sturdy and square. To do this, you’ll need four 2x4s cut to 24 inches long, two 2x4s cut to 48 inches long, and four 1x4s cut to 48 inches long.
Start by assembling the side frames. Place two of the 24-inch 2x4s parallel to each other, 24 inches apart. Then, place two of the 48-inch 2x4s perpendicular to the first two, flush with the ends. Secure the joints with 3-inch wood screws.
Attaching the Front and Back Legs
Next, attach the front and back legs to the side frames. To do this, cut four 2x4s to 12 inches long. Position the legs flush with the inside edges of the side frames, 12 inches from the top and bottom of the boards. Secure the legs with 3-inch wood screws.
Once the legs are attached, you can attach the front and back aprons. These pieces will help to stabilize the frames and provide a place to rest your cornhole bags. Cut two 1x4s to 48 inches long. Position the aprons flush with the inside edges of the side frames, 6 inches from the top and bottom of the boards. Secure the aprons with 2-inch wood screws.
Installing the Legs
Once the frame is assembled, it’s time to install the legs. This is a relatively straightforward process, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
First, make sure that the legs are the correct length. The legs should be long enough to provide adequate support for the board, but not so long that they make the board difficult to move around. A good rule of thumb is to make the legs about 12 inches long.
Next, you need to decide where to attach the legs. The legs should be placed evenly spaced along the bottom of the frame. You can either attach the legs to the inside of the frame or the outside of the frame. If you attach the legs to the inside of the frame, the board will be more stable, but it will also be more difficult to move around. If you attach the legs to the outside of the frame, the board will be less stable, but it will be easier to move around.
Once you have decided where to attach the legs, you can begin the process of attaching them. There are a few different ways to attach the legs, but the most common method is to use wood screws. To attach the legs with wood screws, simply drill a pilot hole into the leg and then drive the screw into the hole. Be sure to use a screw that is long enough to penetrate both the leg and the frame.
Once the legs are attached, your cornhole board is complete! Now you can enjoy hours of fun playing the game with your family and friends.
| Leg Length | Placement | Attachment Method |
|---|---|---|
| 12 inches | Evenly spaced along the bottom of the frame | Wood screws |
Building the Tops
1. Cut the plywood
Use a circular saw or jigsaw to cut two pieces of 3/4-inch plywood to 24 inches by 48 inches. These will be the tops of your cornhole boards.
2. Drill the holes for the legs
Measure and mark the locations of the legs on the underside of each plywood top. Drill 1-inch holes at each marked location.
3. Attach the legs
Insert the legs into the holes in the plywood tops. Secure the legs with 2-inch wood screws.
4. Build the frames
Cut four pieces of 2×4 lumber to 24 inches long and four pieces to 48 inches long. These will form the frames around the plywood tops.
Assemble the frames by screwing the 2x4s together at the corners using 3-inch wood screws. Make sure the frames are square and level.
Attach the frames to the plywood tops using 2-inch wood screws. Center the frames on the tops and flush with the edges.
Installing the Hole
1. Mark the Hole Location: Position the hole template on the playing surface 9 inches from the top edge and 24 inches from the sides. Trace around the template to mark the hole location.
2. Cut the Hole: Use a jigsaw or circular saw to cut out the 6-inch hole, following the traced outline. Ensure that the hole is smooth and free of splinters.
3. Reinforce the Hole: Cut a 12-inch square of plywood and drill a 6-inch hole in its center. This plywood layer will provide additional support for the hole.
4. Attach the Reinforcement: Place the plywood reinforcement over the hole and secure it with wood screws. Countersink the screws slightly below the surface to prevent them from protruding.
5. Trim the Excess: Using a circular saw, trim the excess plywood around the hole so that it is flush with the playing surface. Sand the edges smooth and apply a weatherproof sealant to protect the wood.
Additional Tips:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a sharp saw blade | A sharp blade will make clean cuts and minimize splintering. |
| Drill pilot holes | Drill small pilot holes before driving screws to prevent the wood from splitting. |
| Seal the hole | Apply a weatherproof sealant to protect the hole from moisture and weather damage. |
Sanding and Smoothing the Surface
Once the glue has completely dried, it’s time to sand and smooth the surface of the board. This step is essential for creating a smooth and even playing surface. Here’s a step-by-step guide to sanding and smoothing the cornhole board:
6. Sanding and Smoothing the Cornhole Boards
Step 1: Coarse Sanding
Start with coarse sandpaper (80-120 grit) to remove any excess glue or imperfections from the surface. Sand in long, even strokes, following the grain of the wood.
Step 2: Intermediate Sanding
Once the coarse sanding is complete, switch to a medium-grit sandpaper (150-220 grit). Continue sanding until the surface becomes smooth and free of any major imperfections.
Step 3: Fine Sanding
Finish up with fine-grit sandpaper (240-320 grit). This will create a very smooth surface that is ready for painting or staining.
Step 4: Cleaning the Surface
Once the sanding is complete, use a tack cloth or damp rag to clean the surface of the board. This will remove any dust or debris that could interfere with the painting or staining process.
Step 5: Inspecting the Surface
Before moving on to the painting or staining stage, carefully inspect the surface of the board for any remaining imperfections. If you find any small bumps or dents, use a sanding block or fine-grit sandpaper to smooth them out.
| Sandpaper Grit | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 80-120 | Coarse sanding to remove imperfections |
| 150-220 | Intermediate sanding to smooth the surface |
| 240-320 | Fine sanding to create a very smooth surface |
Painting and Decorating
Once your boards are constructed, it’s time to add some color and flair. Here’s how to paint and decorate your cornhole boards:
Choose Your Colors
Select two complementary colors, one for the top and one for the frame. Consider the style of the boards and your personal preferences.
Apply a Base Coat
Apply a primer to seal the wood and prevent the paint from absorbing unevenly. Then, apply a base coat of your chosen color for the top of the boards.
Paint the Stripes
To create the classic cornhole stripes, use masking tape to mark off equal-width stripes across the width of the board. Apply the second color to the alternating stripes.
Paint the Frame
Remove the masking tape and paint the frame in the second color. Allow the paint to dry completely.
Apply Polyurethane
To protect the finish from wear and tear, apply several coats of polyurethane. Sand lightly between coats to ensure a smooth surface.
Decorate
Get creative and personalize your boards with decorative elements such as stencils, stickers, or custom artwork. Consider using outdoor-grade materials to ensure durability.
Distressing (Optional)
If desired, you can distress the boards by sanding or weathering them to give them an aged or rustic look. Be careful not to overdo it, as excessive distressing can weaken the boards.
Adding the Bean Bags
Now that your cornhole boards are complete, it’s time to make the bean bags. For this, you’ll need 12 squares of sturdy fabric, each measuring 6 inches by 6 inches. Fold each square in half and sew around the edges, leaving a small opening for filling. Turn the bean bags right side out and fill them with dried corn or plastic beads until they’re about two-thirds full. Sew the opening closed and you’re ready to play!
Materials You’ll Need
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sturdy fabric | 12 squares, each measuring 6 inches by 6 inches |
| Dried corn or plastic beads | Approximately 3 cups |
| Needle and thread | 1 |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Fold each square of fabric in half and sew around the edges, leaving a small opening for filling.
2. Turn the bean bags right side out.
3. Fill the bean bags with dried corn or plastic beads until they’re about two-thirds full.
4. Sew the opening closed.
5. Repeat steps 1-4 to make 12 bean bags.
Tips
* For a heavier bean bag, use dried corn.
* For a lighter bean bag, use plastic beads.
* You can also add a weight, such as a small washer, to the inside of each bean bag to make them more difficult to throw.
* Be sure to sew the opening of the bean bags securely to prevent them from coming open and spilling the filling.
Leveling and Installing the Boards
Once your boards are built, it’s time to level and install them. This will ensure that the boards are stable and level, which will make for a more enjoyable game of cornhole.
Materials
| Material | Quantity |
|---|---|
| 2×6 boards (or similar) | 2 |
| 4×4 post (or similar) | 2 |
| Gravel | As needed |
| Level | 1 |
| Screws | 8 |
Instructions
- Place the 2×6 boards on the ground where you want to install the cornhole boards.
- Use a level to ensure that the boards are level.
- If the boards are not level, adjust the ground beneath them until they are.
- Dig two holes, each about 2 feet deep and 1 foot wide, at the ends of the boards.
- Place the 4×4 posts in the holes and fill the holes with gravel.
- Tamp down the gravel around the posts to secure them.
- Attach the 2×6 boards to the 4×4 posts using screws.
- Check the boards again to ensure that they are level.
- If the boards are not level, adjust the screws until they are.
Finishing Touches
1. Sanding the Boards
Once the glue has dried thoroughly, it’s time to sand the boards smooth. Start with a coarse-grit sandpaper (80-100 grit) and gradually work your way up to a finer-grit sandpaper (150-220 grit). Sand with the grain of the wood, using even strokes. Be careful not to over-sand, as this can damage the wood.
2. Painting or Staining the Boards
Now it’s time to add some color to your cornhole boards! You can either paint or stain the boards. If you’re painting, use two or three coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. If you’re staining, apply one or two coats of stain, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Applying a Topcoat
To protect your cornhole boards from the elements, apply a topcoat. You can use a polyurethane, varnish, or clear epoxy. Apply two or three coats of the topcoat, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
4. Adding Graphics or Designs
If you want to add some personal flair to your cornhole boards, you can add graphics or designs. You can use stencils, paint, or vinyl to create your designs. Be creative and have fun with it!
5. Attaching the Legs
If you want your cornhole boards to be portable, you can attach legs. There are a variety of different ways to do this, so choose the method that works best for you. Once the legs are attached, your cornhole boards are complete and ready to play!
How To Make Cornhole Boards
Cornhole is a popular backyard game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. The game is simple to play, but it can be challenging to make your own cornhole boards. With a little planning and effort, however, you can build a set of cornhole boards that will last for years.
Materials:
- 2 pieces of 3/4-inch plywood (4 feet x 2 feet)
- 2×4 lumber (8 feet)
- 1-inch wood screws
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper
- Paint or stain
Instructions:
- Cut the plywood into two pieces that are 4 feet x 2 feet.
- Cut the 2×4 lumber into four pieces that are 2 feet long.
- Attach the 2×4 pieces to the plywood, using wood glue and screws. Make sure that the 2×4 pieces are flush with the edges of the plywood.
- Sand the boards until they are smooth.
- Paint or stain the boards as desired.
- Allow the boards to dry completely.
- Enjoy your new cornhole boards!
People Also Ask About How To Make Cornhole Boards
What is the best wood to use for cornhole boards?
The best wood to use for cornhole boards is plywood. Plywood is strong and durable, and it is also relatively inexpensive. Other good options include MDF and OSB.
What are the official dimensions of cornhole boards?
The official dimensions of cornhole boards are 4 feet x 2 feet. The hole should be 6 inches in diameter and should be centered 9 inches from the top of the board.
How do you make the bags for cornhole?
Cornhole bags are typically made from canvas or duck cloth. They should be filled with dried corn or beans. The bags should be about 6 inches square and weigh about 1 pound each.
