Looking for a fun and challenging project to work on? Why not try making your own cornhole boards! Making your own cornhole boards can be a great project for the weekend that can be enjoyed by the whole family. You will need some basic carpentry skills, a few tools and some materials that can be found at your local hardware store.
This tutorial will show you how to make your own boards using some basic tools and supplies. Best of all, you can customize your boards to fit your exact preferences. So what are you waiting for? Get started on your new favorite DIY project today!
Choose The Right Cornhole Board Materials
There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing the right materials for your project. First, consider the function. Will it be used for structural support, or is it simply for decoration? Second, think about the weight. Heavier wood will be more difficult to work with, so take that into account when making your selection. Finally, consider the cost. Some materials can be quite expensive, so be sure to factor that into your budget. By taking all of these factors into consideration, you can be sure to choose the right options for your project.
When choosing wood for your cornhole board, it is important to consider both durability and weight. For durability, you will want to choose a hardwood like maple or oak. However, because the boards need to be moved around during gameplay, you will also want to make sure they are not too heavy. As a result, lighter woods like poplar or pine may be a better option. In terms of weight, you will also want to consider the size of the beans bags that will be used. If the bags are too light, they may not stay on the board, but if they are too heavy, they may damage the wood. Ultimately, the best materials for your cornhole boards will vary depending on your specific needs and preferences.
Cut The Cornhole Boards to Size
When it comes time to assemble your cornhole set, the first step is to cut the boards to size. The standard size for a cornhole board is 2 feet wide by 4 feet long, but you may want to adjust the dimensions to fit your particular space. The typical "tailgate" size is 2 feet wide by 3 feet long, and some "travel" sizes can be made even smaller!
Once you have determined the desired size, mark the boards with a pencil and use a straight edge to guide your saw. If you don't have a saw, you can always ask your local hardware store to make the cuts for you. With the boards cut to size, you're now ready to add the legs and begin painting.
Drill The Holes in Your Cornhole Boards
One of the most important steps in making a cornhole board set is drilling the holes. The hole should be 6 inches in diameter and should be located 9 inches from the top and 12 inches from either side. You also need to make sure that the hole is centered on the board. When you are ready to drill the holes, start by marking the spot with a pencil. Then, use a hand drill or a power drill to bore the hole.
There are a few different ways to drill the hole, but by far the best is using a bit that is the entire 6 inch diameter. This will result in a perfect circle of the proper size. If you were to try to use a jig saw for instance, and manually shape the hole, it will be more difficult and require more skill. Now is a great time to cut holes in the sides of the boards if you would like carry handles built into your custom set as well! Don't forget to sand all the edges!
Assemble The Cornhole Boards
Now that you've got your tops cut to size and the holes drilled (and potentially your side handles cut out, too), it's time to assemble the rest of the project.
For the frame, you will need two 2x4s and two 1x4s. You will also need eight bolts, washers, and nuts. Once you have all of your materials, you are ready to start assembly. begin by attaching the two 2x4s to the 1x4s using bolts and washers. Next, attach the top pieces to the frame using screws. You'll want to cut the legs on an angle to land flush with the tops of the boards when fully deployed.
You can also add a brace piece across the back of your boards, running from the sides of the boards. Just make sure to place this brace below the hole, so it doesn't block the bags coming through the holes. It's also not a bad idea to add a cross-piece between the legs to give added stability.
Paint or Stain Your Cornhole Boards
The next important step in creating your own cornhole boards is painting or staining them. This will not only give the boards a finished look, but it will also help to protect them from weather damage. When choosing a paint or stain, be sure to select one that is durable and high-quality. You will also want to make sure that the paint or stain you choose is suitable for the type of wood you are using.
Start by sanding down the entire project to ensure everything is nice and smooth. Wipe it down to get any dust or other debris off the wood. Next, apply a layer of primer, followed by two coats of paint or stain. Be sure to let each coat dry completely before applying the next. Once you're finished, apply a clear sealant to protect the paint or stain from wear and tear.
Time to Play Cornhole
Now it's time to enjoy all your hard word and play some cornhole with your friends and family! We've got other articles and posts about the rules of the cornhole if you don't know how to play, but if you've just spent all this time and effort building your own custom set of boards you're likely to already know the rules!
While the construction process isn't too complicated or difficult, it does require some particular tools and confidence in basic carpentry. Lumber prices have been up so the materials, especially if you go high-end, can be pricey. There is always an option to buy diy cornhole boards from a reputable board maker, and many offer the option to customize your set however you want. But if you like to work with your hands and want something completely homemade by you, get out the tools and start building!