Cornhole is the ultimate backyard game—simple to play, yet endlessly entertaining. Whether for weekend barbecues, family gatherings, or competitive tournaments, a well-built cornhole board ensures long-lasting fun. In this guide, you'll learn exactly how to build a cornhole board, with customization tips to make yours stand out.
Materials:
Before we begin, gather these supplies:
Wood & Frame Components:
- Pre-sanded plywood – 3/4 inch thick (playing surface)
- 1x4 pine boards – for sides and legs
Hardware & Tools:
- 6-inch hole saw (or jigsaw and protractor)
- Miter saw
- Countersinking drill bit
- Exterior screws (1 ⅝ inches)
- Wood glue (exterior-grade)
- Sandpaper (80-grit & 220-grit) (More tips on how to choose the right sandpaper)
- Round-over router bit
- Carriage bolts, washers & wing nuts
- Foam brush & water-based polyurethane
Step 1: Cutting the Cornhole Hole
The American Cornhole Association has specific guidelines for the hole:
- Diameter: 6 inches
- Placement: 9 inches down from the top, centered side to side
Drilling the Hole
You can create the hole using one of these methods:
- Jigsaw Method – Use a protractor to draw a circle and carefully cut it out.
- Hole Saw Method – A 6-inch hole saw speeds up the process and ensures a clean cut. Brian’s tip is to go slow and steady to ensure a smooth hole.
To prevent movement while cutting, clamp the plywood down securely. Work steadily and smoothly to avoid jagged edges.
Step 2: Building the Frame
The frame gives your board stability, so it’s important to follow these steps carefully.
Measuring & Cutting
- Cut two side pieces to match the plywood’s full length: 48 inches.
- Cut two end pieces to fit the width minus the thickness of the side boards: 22.5 inches.
Assembly
- Use wood glue and exterior screws to secure the frame.
- To ensure centered screw placement, use an adjustable square set to 3/8 inch.
- Pre-drill holes using a countersinking bit for a flush finish.
Step 3: Attaching the Top
- Apply wood glue along the top edge of the frame.
- Place the plywood surface on top and align it evenly.
- Drill and countersink screws to secure the top: three on the top/bottom, four on each side.
Step 4: Plugging Screw Holes
For a professional look:
- Add wood glue into the screw holes.
- Insert wooden dowels and tap them flush.
- Trim excess with a pull saw or hand saw.
- Sand smooth using 80-grit sandpaper.
Step 5: Smoothing and Rounding Edges
To prevent sharp edges:
- Use a round-over router bit to soften corners.
- Sand the top surface thoroughly with 220-grit sandpaper.
Smoothness is crucial—the bean bags need to slide effortlessly across the board.
Step 6: Making the Legs
The board must sit at an angle, with one side on the ground and the other elevated to 12 inches.
Cutting the Legs
- Since the plywood itself is ¾-inch thick, subtract that from 12 inches.
- Cut two legs to 11 ¼ inches.
Rounding the Corners
To allow the legs to pivot smoothly:
- Trace a rounded edge using a coffee cup or painter’s tape.
- Cut with a jigsaw and sand smooth.
Step 7: Attaching the Legs
- Drill pivot holes 2 inches down from the top.
- Use carriage bolts to secure the legs with washers and wing nuts for easy movement.
Step 8: Finishing Your Cornhole Board
Sand & Clean
- Wipe the board clean of dust.
Apply Protective Finish
- Use a water-based polyurethane for durability and smoothness.
- Apply multiple coats to ensure a sleek surface for bean bag slides.
Customization Ideas
Make your cornhole board truly yours!
- Painting & Staining: Choose colors that match your outdoor setup. Maybe it’s your favorite football team, college sports team, or showing some hometown pride!
- Custom Decals: Add your favorite sports team logo or family crest.
- Themed Graphics: Personalize with game-themed artwork or vibrant designs.
- Foldable Legs: Modify the frame for a collapsible, travel-friendly version.
Step 9: Cornhole Game Setup & Rules
Once built, official tournament distance requires the boards to be 27 feet apart. But for casual play, adjust for comfort!
Start Tossing!
Building a cornhole board is a fun and rewarding DIY project that guarantees countless hours of entertainment. Customizing your board with paints, decals, etc like Brian did, makes it truly one-of-a kind. With the right materials, a few tools, and attention to detail, you'll be ready for backyard tournaments and friendly competition.
