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Free Instructions to Build a Bean Bag Game

Many laser-cut mechanical shops and precision-cut businesses sell beanbag game boards, but often at an inflated price. Others require a fee to buy the instructions for building a game on your own. However, with the right materials, anyone can build a beanbag game without spending much money. Gather plywood sheets, two-by-fours and screws, and you are on your way to creating a homemade beanbag game you can be proud of.

Types of Beanbag Games
- There are several different types of beanbag games. Some games function much like an arcade's Skeeter Ball: You throw the beanbag and try to get it in one of three holes. The highest hole scores the most points. Other games are like beanbag tic-tac-toe: Players try to toss the beanbag in the hole they want to score in. However, the most common beanbag game is Cornhole. Played by casual gamers and league competitors alike, Cornhole requires players to toss beanbags over a considerable distance onto a two-by-four wooden platform raised at a 45-degree angle. There is a hole at the top, and players attempt to land their beanbag in the hole.
Preparing the Materials for Cornhole
- To make any beanbag game, assemble the appropriate wooden materials. For a Cornhole set, cut out two 2-by-4 sheets, four 4-foot 2-by-4s, four 21-inch 2-by-4s and four 11 5/8-inch 2-by-4s. The 2-by-4 sheets must be at least 1/2-inch thick to prevent the board from warping or giving during game play. Cut a 6-inch diameter hole in the top of each 2-by-4 sheet centered 9 inches from the top of the board and 12 inches from each side. You must also connect the 4-foot 2-by-4s and the 21-inch 2-by-4s into two rectangular frames measuring 4 feet long.
Assemble the Cornhole Game
- To make a Cornhole board, attach the plywood sheet to the frame; it should fit flush. Screw it into place, and fill the holes with caulk or plaster. Once it dries, sand it down. Attach two 11 5/8-inch legs to each platform at the top; this will prop the board up at a 45-degree angle. According to official regulations, you should paint the board with a white latex paint. When it dries, the board should be smooth and slick; if it is still rough or transparent, sand it lightly and coat with another layer of paint.
Making Beanbags
- You can make your own beanbags, but they must fit the game's specifications. For Cornhole, the beanbags must measure at least 6 inches by 6 inches and weigh 14 to 16 oz. each. For other beanbag games, the regulations for the beanbags are not as stringent. Just make sure they are light enough to throw easily, but heavy enough to land accurately.

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