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DIY Cornhole Boards: Build Your Own Backyard Game with Ease

by Kim

DIY Cornhole Boards: Step-by-Step Plans and Inspiration

Building Your Own Cornhole Boards

Cornhole, also known as bean bag toss, is a classic backyard game that’s perfect for parties, barbecues, and camping trips. Building your own cornhole boards is a fun and rewarding project that can be completed in a weekend.

Materials and Tools:

  • 2 sheets of 3/4-inch plywood (4′ x 8′)
  • 4 pieces of 2×4 lumber (8′)
  • 1/2-inch wood screws
  • Wood glue
  • Brad nailer
  • Circular saw
  • Miter saw
  • Drill
  • Sander
  • Measuring tape
  • Level
  • Paint or stain (optional)
  • Decals or stencils (optional)

Step-by-Step Building Instructions:

1. Cut the Boards:

  • Cut the plywood into two pieces that are 2′ x 4′. These will be the playing surfaces.
  • Cut the 2x4s into eight pieces that are 2′ long. These will be the legs.

2. Assemble the Legs:

  • Apply wood glue to the ends of the 2x4s.
  • Clamp the 2x4s together in a square, with the playing surfaces facing up.
  • Secure the legs with 1/2-inch wood screws.

3. Attach the Playing Surfaces:

  • Center the playing surfaces on top of the legs.
  • Secure the playing surfaces to the legs with wood glue and 1/2-inch wood screws.
  • Countersink the screws slightly below the surface of the plywood.

4. Finishing:

  • Sand the boards smooth.
  • Paint or stain the boards as desired.
  • Add decals or stencils for a custom look.

Customizing Your Cornhole Boards:

  • Patriotic Designs: Paint your boards red, white, and blue and add stars and stripes decals.
  • Mini Cornhole Boards: Build smaller boards that are perfect for kids.
  • Pallet Cornhole Boards: Use recycled pallets to create unique and rustic boards.
  • Chevron Pattern: Stencil a chevron pattern on your boards for a stylish touch.
  • Lightweight and Collapsible Boards: Use thinner plywood and attach the legs with hinges to make lightweight and collapsible boards that are easy to transport.

Tips for Playing Cornhole:

  • Divide players into two teams of two.
  • Toss the bean bags from a distance of 27 feet apart.
  • Aim for the hole on the opposite board.
  • The first team to score 21 points wins.

Variations on Cornhole:

  • Giant Cornhole: Build larger boards that are perfect for parties and events.
  • Ladder Golf: Combine cornhole with golf by tossing the bean bags through a series of hoops.
  • Baggo: Use larger bean bags and play on a smaller board with a raised lip.

Conclusion:

Building your own cornhole boards is a fun and rewarding project that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. With a little planning and effort, you can create a set of boards that will provide years of entertainment.