How to Build Cornhole Boards: A Beginner’s Guide

Building your own cornhole boards is a fun and rewarding project that can save you money and give you the satisfaction of playing on something you created yourself. This guide will walk you through the process, from gathering materials to finishing touches, with simple instructions tailored for beginners. Plus, we’ll include a material list and diagrams to help you visualize the process.

Materials You’ll Need

Here’s a list of materials and tools required to build regulation-size cornhole boards:

Materials:

• Plywood: (1) 4’ x 4’ sheet of 1/2-inch thick plywood (for the board tops)

• Lumber: (4) 8-foot 2x4 boards (for the frame and legs)

• Wood screws: 2 1/2-inch screws (approximately 30)

• Wood glue

• Sandpaper: 120-grit and 220-grit

• Wood filler (optional, for smoothing imperfections)

• Paint or stain (for decoration and weatherproofing)

• Polyurethane sealant

Tools:

• Tape measure

• Circular saw or table saw

• Drill and drill bits

• Jigsaw (for cutting the hole)

• Clamps

• Paintbrushes or rollers

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cut the Plywood for the Board Tops

• Use the circular saw to cut the 4’ x 4’ plywood into two 2’ x 4’ pieces. These will be the tops of your cornhole boards.

Step 2: Build the Frames

• Cut four 48-inch pieces and four 21-inch pieces from the 2x4 lumber.

• Assemble the frame by attaching one 48-inch piece to each end of a 21-inch piece to form a rectangle. Secure the joints with wood screws and wood glue for extra strength.

Step 3: Attach the Plywood Tops to the Frames

• Place the plywood on top of the frame. Align the edges carefully and use clamps to hold it in place.

• Drill pilot holes every 8 inches around the perimeter, then secure the plywood to the frame with screws.

Step 4: Cut the Hole

• Mark the center of the hole 9 inches from the top edge of the plywood and centered 12 inches from each side.

• Use a compass to draw a 6-inch diameter circle.

• Drill a starter hole inside the circle, then use the jigsaw to cut out the hole. Sand the edges smooth.

Step 5: Make and Attach the Legs

• Cut four legs from the 2x4s, each 12 inches long.

• Round one end of each leg using the jigsaw so it can pivot freely.

• Attach the legs to the inside corners of the frame with bolts and wingnuts, allowing them to fold for easy storage.

• To ensure the board sits at the correct angle, trim the bottom of the legs as needed so the board’s top edge is 12 inches off the ground.

Step 6: Sand and Finish

• Sand all surfaces with 120-grit sandpaper, then finish with 220-grit for a smooth finish.

• Apply wood filler to any gaps or imperfections, if necessary.

• Paint or stain your boards as desired, then apply a polyurethane sealant for durability and weather resistance.

Diagrams

 

Diagram 1: Frame Assembly

• A rectangle made of 2x4s, labeled with dimensions (48" and 21").

Diagram 2: Hole Placement

• A top view of the plywood with a circle labeled “6-inch diameter” and positioned 9 inches from the top edge.

Diagram 3: Leg Assembly

• A side view showing how the legs attach to the frame, with dimensions for pivot points and leg length.

Tips for Beginners

1. Measure Twice, Cut Once: Precision ensures your boards meet regulation standards.

2. Choose Quality Materials: Opt for smooth, sanded plywood to save time and effort during finishing.

3. Customize Your Boards: Use stencils or vinyl decals for unique designs.

Building your own cornhole boards is a project anyone can tackle with the right tools and instructions. Once complete, you’ll have a sturdy, customized set of boards ready for backyard fun or tournaments. Happy building!