Cornhole is a classic lawn game that brings people together for outdoor fun. With some simple supplies, you can make your own cornhole game boards and customize them however you want. Building your own DIY cornhole set is also much more affordable than buying a pre-made one.
This guide will provide you with 10 different DIY cornhole board plans to choose from. We’ll cover designs made from wood, plastic, concrete, and other materials. You’ll find options for simple boards, more intricate designs, and even glow-in-the-dark cornhole!
So grab your tools and let’s start building your custom cornhole game board. With one of these DIY plans, you’ll have a unique and high-quality cornhole set that will provide hours of entertainment.
Classic Wood Cornhole Board
The classic cornhole board design is made from wood. This gives it a traditional look and natural feel during play. Building a wooden cornhole set only requires a few supplies and basic tools.
Supplies Needed
- One 4′ x 2′ piece of plywood at least 1/2″ thick
- Primer/paint for decorating
- Wood glue
- 8′ 2×4 for frame
- 16 screws or nails
Steps
- Cut plywood into two 2′ x 4′ rectangles to make the game boards.
- Cut the 2×4 into four 24″ pieces to make the frame.
- Apply wood glue and attach the frame pieces securely to each board. Allow time to dry completely.
- Once the frames are secure and dry, prime and paint the boards as desired. Add any decorative elements.
- Allow paint to dry fully before use.
- Add handles by screwing short lengths of rope to each side of the frame.
With minimal cost and effort, you’ll have a polished wooden cornhole set for all your tailgating and backyard parties. The classic look matches any outdoor decor.
Paint-Splattered Cornhole Boards
Make your cornhole game the art feature of your backyard with these paint-splattered board designs. The abstract splatter pattern hides any imperfections and looks impressive.
Supplies Needed
- 1/2″ plywood cut into two 2’ x 4’ rectangles
- Primer/paint in multiple colors
- Paint brushes
- Paint rollers
- Drop cloths
Steps
- Lay down drop cloths in your work area to protect from paint splatters.
- Prime the bare plywood boards first using neutral primer.
- Choose 2-3 bright acrylic paint colors that complement each other.
- Dip the paint brushes into the paint cans and flick towards the boards to splatter paint over the surface randomly.
- Also use paint rollers to evenly apply wider splashes of color.
- Layer and blend the colors, covering the boards fully.
- Give the paint time to dry thoroughly before playing.
- Add handle holes or rope handles if desired.
Paint-splattered cornhole boards look vibrant and striking in any yard. The artistic appeal and one-of-a-kind look make them great conversation pieces.
American Flag Cornhole Board
Show off your patriotic spirit with these red, white, and blue American flag themed cornhole boards. They are easy to make just using paint and some creativity.
Supplies Needed
- 1/2″ plywood cut into two 2’ x 4’ rectangles
- Primer
- Red, white, and blue paint
- Paintbrushes
- Painter’s tape
Steps
- Prime the plywood boards first before painting.
- Use painter’s tape to block off stripes on the boards. Stripes should be 6-12 inches wide.
- Paint the exposed board sections in between the tape stripes with bold red and white paint.
- Once first coats are dry, repeat process with painter’s tape and paint second coats for opaque coverage.
- Allow paint to dry fully before removing tape.
- Finish by painting a blue rectangle in the corner that resembles the American flag design.
- Add handle holes as desired.
Displaying these patriotic cornhole boards at Fourth of July parties and summer barbecues is sure to get people excited for some festive fun. The designs are easy to recreate and customize to your liking as well.
Custom Logo Cornhole Boards
Brand your cornhole boards with your own custom logo or text design. This is a smart way to display company pride or integrate personalized details.
Supplies Needed
- 1/2” plywood sheets cut into two 2’ x 4’ game boards
- Primer/paint
- Large stencils for logo design
- High density craft foam
- Utility knife
- Paint markers
Steps
- Design logo or text graphic using digital software like Illustrator or Photoshop.
- Print out logo in large format to use for creating stencils.
- Prime and paint board background colors first and allow to dry fully.
- Use the foam sheets to transfer your logo design. Trace each element onto the foam and cut out using a utility knife.
- Arrange foam stencils on boards and tape into place temporarily.
- Use paint markers to neatly fill in logo design through the foam template. Apply even pressure.
- Allow adequate drying time and then remove stencils.
- Finish edges with paint markers as desired.
With some customization, your cornhole boards can showcase personal flair while still being functional for gameplay. The logo makes a bold statement.
Glow in the Dark Cornhole Boards
Extend the fun into the night by making glow in the dark cornhole boards. They add extra excitement to nighttime parties and camping tailgating. They are easy to create too.
Supplies Needed
- 1/2″ plywood cut into two 2’ x 4’ rectangles
- Highlighter yellow paint
- Glow in the dark paint
- Paintbrushes
- Painter’s tape
Steps
- Prime boards first before painting. Allow to dry fully.
- Use painter’s tape to block off stripes or geometric shapes.
- Paint the exposed sections with bright highlighter yellow paint.
- Once first coat is dry, paint over with the glow in the dark paint. Apply multiple coats for best glow effect.
- Remove the tape to reveal the design when the paint is fully dry.
- Charge the glow paint by exposing boards to sunlight or bright lights prior to playing at night. The longer they charge, the brighter the glow.
The glow in the dark element makes these cornhole boards even more fun for summer bonfires, campouts, or midnight gatherings. Kids and adults alike will love the special effects.
Plastic Cornhole Boards
For a lightweight and weatherproof option, try making cornhole boards out of plastic instead of wood. Recycled plastic sheets work well and come in various colors.
Supplies Needed
- Two 4′ x 2′ plastic sheets (corrugated plastic or recycled HDPE sheets)
- Exterior latex paint
- Paintbrushes
- Jigsaw or hole saw
- Rope
Steps
- Clean and lightly sand plastic boards first to prep for painting.
- Apply 1-2 coats of exterior latex paint in your color choice and allow to dry.
- Use a jigsaw or hole saw to cut rounded handles or hand holds into each side.
- Screw in screw-eye hooks on the top of each board for tying rope.
- Tie rope through the screw-eye hooks and knotted for handles.
Plastic cornhole boards are perfect for playing outdoors, as they won’t rot or warp like wood. The lightweight design makes them highly portable too. Add some creative paint effects to customize.
Mini Travel-Size Cornhole Boards
If you want a compact cornhole set to take on camping trips, vacations, or over to friend’s houses, try making these mini travel-size boards. They are much smaller but still playable.
Supplies Needed
- Two 12″ x 24″ pieces of 1/4″ plywood
- Primer/paint
- Small rope or nylon handle
Steps
- Cut plywood into 12″ x 24″ mini boards. Smooth any rough edges with sandpaper.
- Apply primer and paint colors/designs as desired.
- Before painting, drill a hole into each side of the frame to attach rope handles.
- Knot rope through each hole to create handles once paint is dry.
- Store in a duffle bag or carry case.
When you want portable cornhole for small backyard or indoor play, these mini boards are just the right size. Take them anywhere without hassle.
Cornhole Boards with Storage
Increase the functionality of your cornhole boards by adding built-in storage compartments. This gives you a handy place to keep bags while not in use.
Supplies Needed
- 1/2″ plywood cut into two 2′ x 4′ rectangles
- 18″ x 4″ plywood for lids
- Hinges and magnet closure latches
- Wood glue
Steps
- Cut 6″ deep notches out of each back side corner at a 45 degree angle. These will be the storage compartments.
- On the inside of the lid piece, attach magnet closure latches with wood glue.
- Mount hinges onto the back side of the board above the notches. Attach lid piece to hinges.
- Paint and decorate boards and lids as desired. Make sure compartments are easily accessible.
- When lids are closed, magnets will keep storage compartments securely shut.
This built-in storage addition helps keep bags contained and out of the way between turns. The compartments also give you dedicated spots to stash beverages or other small items.
Diamond Pattern Cornhole Boards
Jazz up ordinary plywood cornhole boards by adding a cool geometric diamond pattern using paint or wood veneer. The multi-colored diamond design looks more dynamic.
Supplies Needed
- 1/2″ plywood cut into two 2’ x 4’ rectangles
- Primer
- Paint in 2-3 colors
- Painter’s tape
- Wood veneer sheets (optional)
- Wood glue (optional)
Steps
- Prime plywood first then tape off diamond shapes in rows.
- Paint the exposed background using your base color. Allow to dry.
- Apply different colored paint inside each taped off diamond. Allow paint to dry fully before removing tape.
- For wood veneer diamonds, trace and cut diamond shapes out of veneer sheets.
- Apply strong wood glue and adhere veneer diamonds in rows on the boards. Allow adequate drying time.
The geometric diamond pattern adds visual interest to basic cornhole boards. Mixing up multiple colors keeps the designs lively and energetic.
Concrete Cornhole Boards
For a modern twist, make your cornhole boards using concrete. Concrete gives the boards a seamless look and smoother finish for tossing bags.
Supplies Needed
- Melamine resin boards for molds
- Quikrete concrete mix
- Concrete tint (optional)
- Small rocks or pebbles
- Rope or handles
- Mold release spray
Steps
- Set melamine boards on a flat surface and spray with mold release.
- Mix concrete according to package directions. Add tint if desired.
- Pour concrete into melamine molds. Spread evenly and pack down.
- Press rocks into surface for texture before concrete dries.
- After 2 days of curing, remove boards from molds.
- Sand down any rough spots if needed. Drill rope holes.
- Allow concrete cornhole boards to finish curing for a week before painting and use.
The smooth concrete surface allows bags to slide easily into the holes. Concrete boards also withstand weather conditions and heavy use.
Pallet Wood Cornhole Boards
For a rustic, natural cornhole board, use reclaimed pallet wood. Pallet wood gives the boards an attractively worn look at a low cost.
Supplies Needed
- 2 pallet wood planks cut into 2’ x 4’ rectangles
- 16 pallet wood boards for edging (1″ x 4″ x 48″)
- Wood glue
- Wood screws
- Sandpaper
- Exterior stain/sealer
Steps
- Break down pallets to remove boards. Cut pallet wood into top boards and edging strips.
- Sand pallet wood to smooth out roughness and round over sharp edges.
- Arrange edging strips around perimeter of top boards. Glue and screw into place.
- Once frames are constructed, sand again lightly.
- Apply stain and exterior sealer to wood to protect from weathering.
The rustic reclaimed wood style gives these cornhole boards natural character. The pallet wood is cost-effective and environmentally friendly too.
Octagon Shaped Cornhole Boards
For a shape that is more visually interesting, try making octagon shaped cornhole boards instead of rectangles. The angled sides add a unique flair.
Supplies Needed
- 1/2″ plywood
- Exterior glue
- Brad nails
- Paint/primer
- Rope
- Protractor
Steps
- Cut two octagon shapes with 8 equal sides from plywood. Use a protractor to mark angles accurately.
- Cut the plywood pieces into trapezoids to form the frame borders. Miter edges at 22.5 degree angles.
- Glue and nail trapezoid frame pieces together at angles to create the octagon shape. Let dry completely.
- Once fully assembled, apply primer and paint colors as desired.
- After paint dries, drill corner holes for rope handles.
The unconventional octagon silhouette makes these cornhole boards stand out. Yet they still function great during play.
Customizing Your Cornhole Boards
No matter which design you choose, don’t be afraid to customize your DIY cornhole boards to match your style. Here are some ideas:
- Stain or paint the wood boards your favorite colors
- Add painted designs, lettering, or logos
- Incorporate family names or phrases that are meaningful to you
- Attach lights for illumination
- Use authentic materials like barn wood or license plates
- Incorporate favorite sports team colors and logos
- Paint boards to look like sports balls
- Use bold paint techniques like ombre or splatter
- Attach game rules or scoring diagrams
Customizing the look makes your cornhole game uniquely yours. Don’t just settle for plain wood boards. With some extra creativity, you can take them to the next level.
DIY Cornhole Board Plans FAQs
How thick should plywood be for cornhole boards?
1/2 inch plywood is ideal, but you can use 3/8 inch as well if cost is a concern. Thicker plywood around 3/4 inch can make the boards overly heavy.
What size are regulation cornhole boards?
Standard cornhole boards measure 2 feet wide x 4 feet long. You can adjust dimensions slightly if needed, but stay close to a 4:2 ratio.
How far apart are cornhole boards placed?
Regulation spacing is 27-30 feet front to front. You can adjust closer or further depending on ages of players and skill levels.
What do I fill cornhole bags with?
Traditional cornhole bags are filled with dried corn kernels, beans, or small pellets. Fill weight should be 14-16 ounces. Plastic pellets are popular for easy cleaning.
Where is the best place to buy supplies for cornhole boards?
Home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s sell plywood, paint, hardware, and other supplies for DIY cornhole boards. Craft stores also have project materials.
How much does it cost to build cornhole boards?
With basic plywood and paint, DIY cornhole boards cost $50-$100 in total supplies. Adding extras like lights, logos, and more customization can increase the overall budget.
How do I waterproof my DIY cornhole boards?
After constructing and painting boards, apply 3-4 coats of outdoor polyurethane sealer. This protects the wood from moisture damage and makes cleaning easier.
What tools do I need to make cornhole boards?
Basic tools like a jigsaw, drill, sander, saw, tape measure, clamps, and compass are handy for constructing cornhole boards. Paint brushes and rollers are also useful.
How do I stencil a logo onto my cornhole board?
Print your logo large format. Use thick craft foam to cut out each element as a template. Secure the foam pieces on the board and trace using paint markers. Remove templates when dry.
Can I make cornhole boards out of other materials?
Yes, you can use plastic, canvas, concrete, aluminum, recycled signage, and other materials. Just cut to the proper 2’ x 4’ size. Virtually any flat surface will work for gameplay.
Conclusion
Building your own custom cornhole boards is an enjoyable DIY weekend project. Not only is it affordable, but you can add personal flair that store-bought cornhole sets just don’t have. With so many material and design options to choose from, you can create boards that match your skills and style of decor.
Just be sure to apply durable finishes so your cornhole boards can withstand weather conditions and frequent use for many years. That way your DIY cornhole game will provide endless hours of entertainment at barbecues, tailgates, and family get-togethers.
Getting started is as easy as grabbing plywood, paint, and basic hardware. For more detailed tips and tricks, refer to the 10 plans outlined above. With a handmade cornhole set customized by you, every game