When the weather is warm, many people enjoy playing outdoor games with their friends and family. One popular game is corn toss. Corn toss is a simple game that can be played by people of all ages. It is also a relatively inexpensive game to make. In this article, we will provide you with instructions on how to make your own corn toss boards.
To make your own corn toss boards, you will need the following materials: two pieces of plywood (each measuring 2 feet by 4 feet), four 2-inch by 4-inch boards (each measuring 4 feet long), eight 1-inch by 4-inch boards (each measuring 2 feet long), one 1-inch by 6-inch board (measuring 4 feet long), wood glue, screws, nails, and paint or stain.
Once you have gathered your materials, you can begin assembling your corn toss boards. First, attach the 2-inch by 4-inch boards to the plywood using wood glue and screws. These boards will form the frame of your corn toss boards. Next, attach the 1-inch by 4-inch boards to the inside of the frame, spacing them evenly apart. These boards will create the playing surface of your corn toss boards. Finally, attach the 1-inch by 6-inch board to the top of the frame, centered between the two playing surfaces. This board will serve as the target for the corn toss bags.
Selecting the Right Materials
Plywood or MDF
Plywood is a great option for making corn toss boards. It’s strong and durable, and it’s relatively inexpensive. MDF (medium-density fiberboard) is another good option. It’s also strong and durable, but it’s not as moisture-resistant as plywood. If you’re going to be using your corn toss boards outdoors, you’ll want to choose plywood.
Cornhole Bags
Cornhole bags are typically made from duck cloth or canvas. Duck cloth is a heavy-duty fabric that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. Canvas is a lighter-weight fabric, but it’s not as durable. If you’re going to be playing corn toss often, you’ll want to choose duck cloth bags.
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Plywood | Strong, durable, inexpensive | Not as moisture-resistant as MDF |
| MDF | Strong, durable, moisture-resistant | More expensive than plywood |
| Duck cloth | Heavy-duty, durable | Not as lightweight as canvas |
| Canvas | Lightweight, inexpensive | Not as durable as duck cloth |
Building the Frames
The first step in constructing your corn toss boards is to build the frames. For this, you will need the following materials:
- Two pieces of 2×4 lumber, each measuring 24 inches long
- Two pieces of 2×4 lumber, each measuring 48 inches long
- Eight wood screws, 2 inches long
- A drill
- A screwdriver
Once you have gathered your materials, follow these steps:
- Lay the two 24-inch pieces of 2×4 lumber parallel to each other, with their ends flush.
- Place the two 48-inch pieces of 2×4 lumber on top of the 24-inch pieces, forming a rectangle.
- Using the drill, create pilot holes for the wood screws at each corner of the frame.
- Drive the wood screws into the pilot holes to secure the frame.
- Four pieces of 2×4 lumber, each cut to a length of 20 inches
- Eight 3-inch wood screws
- A drill
- A screwdriver
- Center one of the 20-inch pieces of 2×4 lumber on the inside of each frame, parallel to the 24-inch pieces.
- Secure the support piece to the frame using two 3-inch wood screws, one at each end.
- Repeat steps 1 and 2 for the remaining support pieces, placing them on the opposite side of the frame.
- Cut the plywood: Measure and cut the plywood pieces to fit the frames. They should be flush with the edges of the frames.
- Apply wood glue: Apply a generous layer of wood glue to the inside edges of the frames.
- Secure the plywood: Place the plywood sheets onto the frames and align them carefully. Use wood screws to secure the plywood, spacing them approximately 6 inches apart along the edges.
- Countersink the screws: Use a countersink bit to create recessed holes for the screw heads. This will prevent the bags from catching on the screw heads during play.
- Let the glue dry: Allow the wood glue to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
- 12 squares of durable fabric (such as canvas or denim), each measuring 6 inches by 6 inches
- 12 cups of dried corn kernels
- A funnel
- A needle and thread
- Two pieces of plywood (3/4 inch thick)
- Two 2x4s (8 feet long)
- Eight 3-inch wood screws
- A saw
- A drill
- A measuring tape
- A pencil
- Cut the plywood into two pieces that are 2 feet wide by 4 feet long.
- Cut the 2x4s into four pieces that are 2 feet long.
- Attach the 2x4s to the plywood using the wood screws. Make sure the 2x4s are flush with the edge of the plywood.
- Measure and mark the center of each board.
- Drill a 1-inch hole in the center of each board.
- Paint or stain the boards to your liking.
- Let the boards dry completely.
Reinforcing the Frames
To ensure the frames are sturdy, it is important to reinforce them with additional support. For this, you will need:
Follow these steps to reinforce the frames:
Attaching the Playing Surface
Once the frames are constructed, it’s time to attach the playing surface. This is a critical step as the surface needs to be taut and secure for optimal game play.
Materials needed:
| Material | Quantity |
|---|---|
| 3/4-inch exterior-grade plywood | 2 sheets (4 feet x 8 feet each) |
| Wood glue | 1 bottle |
| 1 1/4-inch wood screws | 1 box |
| Drill | 1 |
| Countersink bit | 1 |
Steps:
Creating the Bean Bags
The bean bags for corn toss are an essential part of the game, as they provide the weight and shape needed to toss them accurately. To make your own bean bags, you will need the following materials:
Step 1: Fold each square of fabric in half twice, bringing the corners together to form a triangle. Sew the sides of the triangle together, leaving a small opening at the top.
Step 2: Use the funnel to fill each bean bag with 1 cup of corn kernels.
Step 3: Sew the opening at the top of each bean bag shut.
Step 4: Double-stitch the seams of each bean bag for added durability.
Step 5: If desired, you can decorate the bean bags with fabric markers or paint.
Step 6: To ensure your bean bags are regulation size and weight, follow these detailed instructions:
| Measurement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Length | 6 inches |
| Width | 6 inches |
| Thickness | 2 inches |
| Weight | 12 ounces |
Assembling the Toss Boards
Once the panels are cut to size, it’s time to assemble the toss boards.
1. Glue the Panels Together
Apply wood glue to the edges of the plywood panels, then clamp them together securely. Wipe away any excess glue that squeezes out.
2. Reinforce the Joints with Screws
Drive screws through the plywood panels into the support frame, reinforcing the joints. Use countersunk screws to prevent the heads from sticking out.
3. Mark the Center and Holes
Measure and mark the center of each toss board. Then, mark the locations of the holes for the rope handle and cornhole bags.
4. Drill the Rope Handle Holes
Drill holes large enough to accommodate the rope handle through the center of the toss boards.
5. Drill the Cornhole Bag Holes
Drill a 6-inch diameter hole in the center of the toss boards, 9 inches from the top edge. This is where the cornhole bags will be tossed through.
6. Cut the Rope Handle
Cut a length of rope to the desired length for the handle, plus a few extra inches for tying.
7. Attach the Rope Handle and Cornhole Bags
Thread the rope handle through the holes in the toss boards and knot it securely. Sew cornhole bags according to the desired specifications and fill them with corn or other suitable material.
Determining the Throwing Distance
Deciding the throwing distance is crucial for setting up an enjoyable game of corn toss. Here are detailed guidelines to assist you in establishing the optimal distance:
1. Measuring the Playing Area
Start by measuring the available space where you intend to play the game. Determine the length and width of the area.
2. Estimating the Range of Players
Consider the skill level and age range of the players who will be participating. Younger or less experienced players may benefit from a shorter distance.
3. Standard Distance for Competitive Play
In competitive corn toss tournaments, the standard throwing distance is typically 30 feet (9.1 meters).
4. Determining Average Arm Extension
Measure the average arm extension of the players by having them stand with their arms fully extended. Add approximately 12 inches (30 centimeters) to this measurement to account for the height of the boards.
5. Calculating Minimum Distance
Multiply the average arm extension (with the 12-inch buffer) by 2. For instance, if the average arm extension is 24 inches (61 centimeters), the minimum throwing distance would be 56 inches (142 centimeters) or 4 feet 8 inches (1.42 meters).
6. Recommended Distances for Beginners
For beginners, a throwing distance of 20-25 feet (6-7.6 meters) is suitable. This range allows for a comfortable playing experience while minimizing the risk of over- or under-throwing the cornhole.
7. Adjusting Distance for Space Constraints
If space is limited, you may need to adjust the throwing distance accordingly. Consider using a shorter distance to maintain a challenging but still playable game.
8. Fine-tuning the Distance Through Practice
Once you have an initial estimate, set up the game and practice. Observe the players’ throwing patterns and make adjustments as needed. The optimal throwing distance is one that allows for consistent play, with both teams having a fair chance of scoring and enjoying the game.
Here is a table summarizing the recommended distances for different situations:
| Situation | Recommended Distance |
|---|---|
| Competitive Play | 30 feet (9.1 meters) |
| Beginners | 20-25 feet (6-7.6 meters) |
| Space Constraints | Adjusted as necessary |
Playing the Game
To begin a game of Corn Toss, the boards are set up facing each other, a distance of 27 feet apart. Each team takes turns tossing four beanbags towards the opposite board, attempting to land them in the hole, on the platform, or on the ground.
Teams alternate turns, and the first team to score 21 points wins the game. Points are awarded as follows:
| Scenario | Points Awarded |
|---|---|
| Beanbag lands in the hole | 3 |
| Beanbag lands on the platform | 1 |
| Beanbag lands on the ground | 0 |
The following additional rules apply:
* The beanbags must be tossed underhand.
* Beanbags that land on the edge of the hole but do not fully fall in are considered as “hanging” and do not score any points.
* Beanbags that bounce off the ground before landing on the board do not score any points.
* If a beanbag is accidentally knocked off the board, the opposing team gets an automatic point.
* The game can be played with two or four players, with each team having two players.
* If the game is tied at 20-20, the teams play an extra round to determine the winner.
How To Make Corn Toss Boards
Corn toss is a fun and easy game to play with friends and family. It’s also a great way to get some exercise. If you’re looking for a fun and challenging game to play outdoors, corn toss is a great option.
To make your own corn toss boards, you’ll need the following materials:
Once you have your materials, follow these steps to make your corn toss boards:
Your corn toss boards are now complete! To play the game, simply toss beanbags or corn kernels at the boards. The first player or team to get all of their beanbags or corn kernels on the board wins.
People Also Ask
How big should corn toss boards be?
Corn toss boards are typically 2 feet wide by 4 feet long. However, you can make them any size you want. If you’re making them for children, you may want to make them smaller.
What kind of wood should I use to make corn toss boards?
You can use any type of wood to make corn toss boards. However, plywood is a good option because it’s strong and durable. You can also use cedar or redwood, which are both naturally resistant to rot and insects.
How do I paint or stain corn toss boards?
You can paint or stain corn toss boards any color you want. However, it’s important to use a paint or stain that is specifically designed for outdoor use. This will help to protect the boards from the elements.
