DIY Cornhole Set (with Free Pattern Downloads!)
Given we just finished our backyard, I’m pretty pumped that we can fully take advantage of the space and entertain before it’s too late this season. With that comes barbecues, cold beverages, fires, and yard games. Growing up in Kentuckiana, I’ve always loved a good game of cornhole. I also went to a big ten college, and not to brag… but I have quite a few wins under my belt. Ha! I’ve had disagreements with friends in Utah who call the game “bags” or “yard toss”, but no matter what you call it- the consensus is that everyone has a fun time playing. Click through for a cornhole set DIY and to download some chic patterns if you already own a set.
For anyone who thought this was going to be a woodworking post- it’s not. Emmett didn’t have time to build a set from scratch, but if you are interested in that… this tutorial from Lowes is amazing and you can find all of the supplies using that same link!
I felt there was a big gap in the yard game category… there are so many versions but most of them look the same or are painted in collegiate and team-based themes. Where are all the hip yard games that actually look aesthetically pleasing?! You don’t spend forever on your yard to bring in a set of boards featuring your favorite mascot. That’s a bro thing to do, right? I wanted to shake things up a bit and give you something you could be proud to pull out while entertaining, if sports isn’t your thing. Think of it as art for your yard entertainment. We brought these out when friends came over to barbecue and they were a hit… Emmett played my friend Jen- I’ll let you guess who won (girl power!).
Everything you need to get started is below…
Finishing Supplies:
– unfinished corn hole boards
– corn hole bags (mine came from here)
– paint
– paintbrush or roller
– x-acto knife
– squeegee
– custom decal (if you go that route)
– paper towel
– all purpose cleaner
There are a couple ways to get a pattern on the board itself…
- Install a decal.
- Paint the boards.
I’ve painted plenty of cornhole sets in the past and it works just as well! They hold up really nicely and it’s a sure way to get the pattern and color exactly how you want it. This time around, I opted to take the easy route and order a decal. I sized and created a bunch of patterns, shown below before landing on the black and white one. Click the corresponding number to download each pattern!
01 // 02 // 03 // 04 // 05 // 06 // 07 // 08 // 09 // 10 // 11 // 12
Step 1 // Choose a pattern and order! First you’ll want to decide on a pattern. Send it to your favorite decal printer or the one I linked above and you’re good to go. This Etsy shop sells super cheap custom decals specifically for corn hole sets. Easy peasy. It should arrive in the mail within a week or two.
Step 2 // Order the bags. I’m all about sewing, but I’m here to tell you- it’s not worth your time on this project. Cornhole bags are cheap and they come in a million different colors. I’d recommend ordering a set.
Step 3 // Clean the board. Once your bags and decal have arrived, you can get started. Begin by wiping the surface of the board using an all purpose cleaning spray and paper towel. Allow the board to dry completely before moving to the next step.
Step 4 // Align the decal and tag the edge. Align your decal to the top and sides of the board. Once it’s positioned correctly, peel the backing off the decal and tag the corners. Use the squeegee to get it started and hold it in place.
Step 5 // Squeegee the entire decal. Continue adhering the decal to the surface and peeling the backing until you reach the bottom.
Step 6 // Trim the excess. Use an xacto knife to trim the inner circle and excess decal from the edges. Don’t panic if you see some air bubbles… once the decal is completely on, go back with an x-acto knife popping the bubbles and pushing out the air. Depending on the material, the decals should last for at least a couple years and should remain fade resistant.
That’s it! Pretty easy and much better than plain boards or athletic alternatives, right?
I’d love to know which ones are your favorites? They’re all good looking sets that are more like furniture or art than the college bro’s yard game you’d find at a frat house, wouldn’t you agree? You definitely won’t be ashamed to whip these out at your next BBQ! Don’t worry, smack talking is still encouraged.
To wrap things up, I have two questions. Who else plays and loves this game? Do you call it ‘cornhole’ or do you call it ‘bags’? Or something entirely different? It’s probably because I’m from the midwest. Maybe if you throw in where you’re from, that will also help me in the name tally! Thanks guys!
*This post is brought to you in collaboration with Lowes. All content, ideas, and words are my own. Thank you for supporting the sponsors that allow us to create unique content while featuring products we truly use and enjoy!
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