DIY an Outdoor Cornhole Game

Lead Image for DIY an Outdoor Cornhole Game
  • 2-4 hours
  • Intermediate
  • 75-125
What You'll Need
Jigsaw
Compass
1/2 inch plywood sheet
2x4s (5 at 6 ft)
1 5/8 inch screws
4 1/2 inch carriage bolt (4)
washer
wing nut
Wood putty
Sandpaper
What You'll Need
Jigsaw
Compass
1/2 inch plywood sheet
2x4s (5 at 6 ft)
1 5/8 inch screws
4 1/2 inch carriage bolt (4)
washer
wing nut
Wood putty
Sandpaper

Due to its relaxing nature and backyard appeal, Cornhole has quickly became one of the more popular games throughout the country. However, when people look to purchase their own they are often discouraged by the price of purchasing and shipping a new Cornhole set. Luckily, the beanbag-tossing game is easy to make and can be accomplished using a sheet of plywood and a couple 2x4s. By following the steps below, you can have your own Cornhole set in no time.

Step 1 - Make a Cut List

After assembling all the materials, the first thing to do is to create a cut list. The American Cornhole Organization has specific measurements that deem every regulation size board to be 48 x 24 inches and made from 1/2 inch plywood. Essentially, you will be building a rectangular frame to meet these requirements. Along with two plywood pieces at 48 x 24 inches, the frame will be made out of four 2x4s at 48 inches long, four 2x4s at 21 inches long, and four 2x4s at 12 inches in length.

Step 2 - Cut the Plywood

Follow your cut list by cutting the plywood down to two rectangular sections of 48 x 24 inches. These two pieces will make the top of the game. After cutting the plywood, set the pieces aside until you're ready to attach them to the frame.

Step 3 - Build the Frame

With the plywood now cut, it's time to build the frame. Cut the 2x4s down to their appropriate lengths according to the cut list. Next, place the 48-inch and 21-inch long 2x4s on a flat surface. Screw the 2x4s together to make two rectangular boxes that are 48 inches long by 21 inches wide.

Step 4 - Attach the Plywood to the Frames

Attach the plywood pieces you cut early to the top of the box frames. You can attach the plywood to the frames with 1-5/8 inch screws. If you don't want the screws to be exposed, it's a good idea to countersink the screw holes and fill them in with wood putty afterwards. Additionally, it's a good practice to predrill holes before you drive your screws in to prevent the 2x4s from splitting.

Step 5 - Attach the Legs (Part 1)

The next step is to attach the legs, which are made from the 12-inch 2x4s you cut earlier. The legs are attached to the frame of the game by using a carriage bolt. Before you attach the legs, you'll need to round off the tops of each of the boards so that they can swing freely. To do this, simply measure out a line 1 3/4 inch from the top of the 2x4. Then, place a compass in the center of the line and use it to draw an arch. Using a jigsaw, cut along the arch line and sand it down where appropriate. Repeat this for each leg.

Step 6 - Attach the Legs (Part 2)

Using a 3/8 inch drill bit, drill a hole through each of the center points of the legs. This is the same center point you used to make the arch in each leg in the last step. After the holes are drilled, clamp the legs to the top corners of the game. Once again, drill through the hole you made earlier and keep going through the 2x4 of the frame. Then, run a carriage bolt through the hole and secure it with a washer and wing nut.

Step 7 - Angle the Legs

In order for the game to rest evenly on the ground, you'll need to cut the bottom of the legs at an angle. To ensure the game is 12 inches from the ground, place the game board right side up on top of a table. Place a box or bucket under the board to raise the game exactly 12 inches from the table top. Extend one of the legs over the edge of the table and mark the angle, using the tabletop as a reference. Repeat the process for all the legs and cut them accordingly.

Step 8 - Cut the Hole

The only thing your Cornhole game is missing at this point is the hole. The hole should be 9 inches down from the top of the plywood and 12 inches from both sides. Measure this out and make a mark. Place your compass at the center point and draw out a hole that is 6 inches in diameter. Use a jigsaw to cut out the circle. To make the process easier, use a drill to make a hole big enough on the outer edge of the circle so that the jigsaw blade can be inserted through to make the cut. Alternatively, you can always purchase a 6-inch hole saw bit to cut out the hole.

Step 9 - Paint

With the Cornhole set assembled, it's time to paint. You can paint the game in any style you wish, including a solid color or a standard triangle. Once the board is painted, you can purchase (or make your own) corn-filled bags and you're ready to play!