In the realm of backyard games, cornhole stands tall as a classic that brings friends and family together in friendly competition. It’s a game that transcends age and skill levels, providing hours of entertainment. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time enthusiast, building your own cornhole is a rewarding project that adds a touch of homemade charm to your outdoor space. This step-by-step guide will empower you with the knowledge and guidance to create a sturdy, regulation-sized cornhole board that will enhance your summer gatherings.
The first step in building a cornhole board is gathering the necessary materials. You will need two pieces of 3/4-inch plywood, each measuring 2 feet by 4 feet for the playing surface. For the legs, you will need four 2x4s, each cut to 24 inches in length. Additionally, you will need wood screws, a drill, a saw, a level, a measuring tape, and sandpaper. Once you have gathered your materials, you can move on to the construction process.
Begin by marking the center of each plywood sheet. This will be the location of the hole, which should be 6 inches in diameter and 9 inches from the top edge of the board. Use a saw or drill to cut out the holes. Next, attach the legs to the plywood sheets using wood screws. Ensure that the legs are perpendicular to the boards and evenly spaced from each other. Finally, sand all of the surfaces to remove any splinters or rough edges, and apply a coat of sealant or paint to protect the wood from the elements. With these steps completed, your custom-built cornhole board is ready for action. Grab your bean bags and prepare for some backyard fun!
Gathering the Necessary Materials
Cornhole is a classic backyard game that’s perfect for gatherings with friends and family. It’s easy to make your own cornhole boards, and it’s a fun project that you can complete in an afternoon. Here’s a list of materials you’ll need to get started:
Materials
| Material | Quantity | Size |
|---|---|---|
| 1×6 pine boards | 4 (for the sides) | 48″ |
| 2×4 pine boards | 2 (for the legs) | 24″ |
| 3/4″ plywood | 1 (for the base) | 24″ x 48″ |
| 1/2″ plywood | 1 (for the top) | 24″ x 48″ |
| 2″ wood screws | 1 box | |
| 1-1/4″ wood screws | 1 box | |
| Wood glue | 1 bottle | |
| Sandpaper | 1 sheet (100-grit) | |
| Paint or stain | 1 gallon | |
| Corn bags | 8 | 6″ x 6″ |
Sanding and Finishing
Sanding
Once the glue has dried, it’s time to sand the cornhole boards. Start with a coarse-grit sandpaper (80-120 grit) and sanding in the direction of the wood grain. Gradually move to finer grit sandpaper (150-220 grit) until you achieve a smooth, even finish.
Pay particular attention to the edges of the boards and any rough spots. Use a sanding block or a palm sander for a more even sanding.
Applying the Finish
Choosing the Finish
There are several types of finishes you can use for your cornhole boards. Some popular options include:
- Paint: Provides a durable and colorful finish. Can be applied with a brush, roller, or sprayer.
- Stain: Enhances the natural grain of the wood while providing a protective coating. Can be applied with a brush or cloth.
- Polyurethane: A clear finish that provides excellent protection against water, wear, and UV rays.
Applying the Finish
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for applying the finish you choose. Generally, you will apply a thin, even coat, allowing it to dry completely before applying a second coat. It’s recommended to apply 2-3 coats of finish.
Tips for a Professional Finish
Adding the Cornhole Wraps
Once the frames are built and the hole cut, it’s time to add the cornhole wraps. These wraps will give the board a finished look and help protect the wood from the elements. There are a few different materials you can use for cornhole wraps, including vinyl, plywood, and canvas. Vinyl is the most popular option because it’s durable, waterproof, and easy to clean. Plywood is a more affordable option, but it’s not as durable as vinyl. Canvas is a good choice if you want a more rustic look. When choosing a cornhole wrap, be sure to select a material that is weather-resistant and will hold up to the elements.
To attach the cornhole wraps, you will need to use a staple gun or a brad nailer. Start by centering the wrap on the frame and stapling or nailing it into place. Be sure to pull the wrap taut as you staple or nail it so that there are no wrinkles. Once the wrap is attached, you can trim any excess material around the edges.
Here is a step-by-step guide to adding the cornhole wraps:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Center the cornhole wrap on the frame. |
| 2 | Staple or nail the wrap into place, starting from the center and working your way around the edges. |
| 3 | Pull the wrap taut as you staple or nail it so that there are no wrinkles. |
| 4 | Trim any excess material around the edges. |
How to Build Cornhole
Materials:
- 2 pieces of ¾-inch plywood (2′ x 4′)
- 2′ x 6′ pine board
- 1×4 pine board (8′ long)
- 1×2 pine board (4′ long)
- 1-inch wood screws
- 2-inch wood screws
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper
- Paint or stain
Instructions:
- Cut the plywood pieces to size.
- Cut the 2′ x 6′ pine board into two 2′ x 4′ pieces.
- Attach the 2′ x 6′ pieces to the plywood pieces, 12 inches from the top edge. Use 2-inch wood screws.
- Cut the 1×4 pine board into two 4′ pieces and two 2′ pieces.
- Attach the 4′ pieces to the bottom edges of the plywood pieces, flush with the outside edges. Use 1-inch wood screws.
- Attach the 2′ pieces to the inside edges of the plywood pieces, 12 inches from the bottom edge. Use 1-inch wood screws.
- Cut the 1×2 pine board into four 2′ pieces.
- Attach the 2′ pieces to the inside edges of the plywood pieces, flush with the top edge. Use 1-inch wood screws.
- Sand all surfaces smooth.
- Paint or stain the boards as desired.
