Are you looking for a fun outdoor activity to enjoy with family and friends and want to know how to make corn hole boards?
This classic game is easy to learn and perfect for all ages.
Plus, building your own cornhole boards can be a fun and rewarding DIY project.
To get started, you’ll need some basic tools and materials.
The American Cornhole Association requires platforms to be a 48″ x 24″ rectangle made from 1/2-inch plywood.
You’ll also need a circular saw, measuring tape, drill with drill bit and Phillips-head screw bit, 1/2″ drill bit, clamps, jigsaw, random orbit sander, primer, and paint roller.
Don’t worry if you don’t have all of these tools on hand – many hardware stores offer tool rentals or you can borrow from a friend.
How To Make Cornhole Boards
If you’re looking for a fun outdoor game to play with friends and family, cornhole is a great option.
Not only is it easy to learn, but it’s also easy to make your own cornhole boards.
In this section, we’ll go over the materials you’ll need, how to cut the boards, how to create the holes, and how to sand and finish the boards.
Materials Needed
Before you start building your cornhole boards, you’ll need to gather a few materials. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- Two pieces of 2’x4′ plywood
- Four pieces of 2’x4′ lumber
- Saw
- Drill
- 6-inch hole saw
- Jigsaw
- Sandpaper
- Paint or stain
Cutting The Boards
Once you have your materials, it’s time to start cutting the boards.
Here’s what you’ll need to do:
- Cut the plywood into two 2’x4′ pieces.
- Cut the lumber into four 21-inch pieces and four 48-inch pieces.
- Cut a 6-inch hole in the center of each plywood board using the hole saw.
- Use the jigsaw to cut out the corners of the boards to create the signature cornhole shape.
Creating The Holes
Now that you have your boards cut to size, it’s time to create the holes.
Here’s how you’ll do it:
- Measure 9 inches from the top of the board and mark the center of the hole.
- Use the hole saw to create the 6-inch hole in the center of the board.
- Sand the edges of the hole to remove any rough edges.
Sanding and Finishing
The final step in making your cornhole boards is to sand and finish the boards.
Here’s what you’ll need to do:
- Sand the boards using a medium-grit sandpaper to remove any rough spots or splinters.
- Use a fine-grit sandpaper to smooth the boards.
- Apply a coat of paint or stain to the boards.
- Allow the boards to dry completely before playing.
And there you have it! With just a few materials and some basic tools, you can make your own cornhole boards and enjoy hours of fun with friends and family.
Painting and Customizing Your Cornhole Boards
Once you’ve built your cornhole boards, it’s time to make them your own by painting and customizing them.
Here are some tips to get you started:
Preparing Your Boards
- Before you start painting, make sure your boards are clean and dry.
- You can lightly sand them to smooth out any rough spots, but be sure to wipe them down with a clean, lint-free cloth afterwards.
- Next, choose your paint.
- You’ll want to use a weather-resistant paint or sealant to protect your boards from moisture, UV rays, and general wear and tear.
- You can use a single color or get creative with designs and patterns.
Painting Your Boards
- To paint your boards, you’ll need a well-ventilated area and a drop cloth or protective covering to catch any drips.
- You can use a brush, roller, or spray paint to apply your paint, depending on your preference.
- If you’re using multiple colors or designs, you may want to use painter’s tape to create clean lines and prevent bleeding.
- Be sure to let each coat of paint dry completely before applying the next one.
Customizing Your Boards
- Once your boards are painted, you can add custom designs and decorations to make them truly unique.
- You can use vinyl decals, stencils, or even hand-paint your designs.
- If you’re not confident in your artistic abilities, you can also consider hiring a professional to create custom designs for you.
Overall, painting and customizing your cornhole boards is a fun and creative way to make them your own.
With a little bit of effort and creativity, you can create a set of boards that you’ll be proud to show off at your next cornhole game.
Maintenance Tips
Congratulations on building your own cornhole boards!
Now that you have your boards, it’s important to keep them in good condition so that you can enjoy playing for years to come.
Here are some maintenance tips to keep your boards looking and playing their best:
- Clean your boards regularly.
- Dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate on your boards over time, so it’s important to clean them regularly.
- Use a soft cloth or a brush to remove any dirt or debris, and wipe down the boards with a damp cloth to remove any stains or spills.
- Store your boards properly.
- When you’re not playing, it’s important to store your boards in a dry, cool place.
- Avoid leaving them outside or in direct sunlight, as this can cause damage to the boards over time.
- Check for loose screws and nails.
- Before you start playing, it’s a good idea to check your boards for any loose screws or nails.
- Tighten any loose screws or nails with a screwdriver or hammer to ensure that your boards are secure.
- Protect your boards from the elements.
- Extreme weather conditions such as rain, snow, and excessive heat can cause damage to your boards.
- To protect your boards from the elements, store them in a dry place and avoid playing in harsh conditions.
- Apply a protective finish.
- Applying a protective finish to your boards can help to protect them from the elements and keep them looking their best.
- Choose a finish that is rated for outdoor use, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application.
By following these maintenance tips, you can help to ensure that your cornhole boards stay in good condition and provide you with hours of fun and entertainment.
Key Takeaways
Making your own cornhole boards is a fun and rewarding DIY project that can be completed in just a few hours.
Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind as you get started:
- Materials: You will need some basic woodworking tools and materials, including plywood, 2x4s, a jigsaw, and a drill.
- You can also add custom touches like paint or decals to make your boards unique.
- Dimensions: The official cornhole board dimensions are 2-feet x 4-feet with a 6-inch hole centered 9 inches from the top of the board.
- Make sure to measure and cut your boards precisely to ensure a proper fit.
- Assembly: The basic assembly process involves cutting and attaching the frame, cutting the hole, and attaching the legs.
- You can also add features like cup holders or handles to make your boards more functional.
- Finishing: Once your boards are assembled, you can sand them down and apply a finish to protect the wood and add a professional touch.
- You can also add custom designs or decals to make your boards stand out.
Overall, making your own cornhole boards is a fun and easy project that can be enjoyed by people of all skill levels.
With a little bit of time and effort, you can create a set of boards that will provide hours of outdoor entertainment for you and your friends and family.
