How to Build Regulation Cornhole Boards and Bags for Your Backyard

Getting Started with Backyard Cornhole

Cornhole, also known as bags, bean bag toss, or soft horseshoes, has exploded in popularity over the past decade. The classic lawn game is easy to learn, fun for all ages, and can be set up in virtually any outdoor space. If you're looking to build your own cornhole boards and enjoy this classic backyard pastime, here are some tips to get started.

Choosing Cornhole Equipment

The first step is selecting high quality cornhole equipment. The main components you'll need are:

• Cornhole boards - These are the ramps players toss bags onto. Regulation size is 4 feet by 2 feet with a 6 inch hole cut out 9 inches from the top. Choose solid plywood at least .5 inches thick for durability.
• Cornhole bags - Bags should be 6 inches square and filled with 14-16 ounces of dried corn. Duck cloth and double stitched seams ensure longevity.
• Acl cornhole mats - These optional mats go on top of the playing surface to create a consistent slide and reduce wear and tear.

For a professional quality set, look for acl cornhole mats and all-weather duck cloth bags. Plastic resin boards stand up to outdoor conditions better than plain wood. Custom artwork and bags add personality!

Building Regulation Cornhole Boards

If you're handy with woodworking tools, you can build cornhole boards from scratch. Here's an overview of the process:

1. Cut two 4 foot by 2 foot rectangles from .5 inch plywood.
2. On each board, measure and cut a 6 inch diameter hole, centered 9 inches from the top.
3. Apply primer and paint or stain the wood boards.
4. Use painter's tape to map out 2 foot by 1 foot rectangles on each board.
5. Carefully paint or apply vinyl graphics inside the taped off areas.
6. Remove tape and finish with polyurethane to protect graphics.
7. Install fold out legs or build a stand for the boards.
8. Optional: Apply acl cornhole mats on top of each board's playing surface.

Setting Up Cornhole in Your Backyard

One of the best parts of cornhole is tailoring the setup to your unique backyard space. Here are somepopular configuration options:

• Grass: Set boards 27 feet apart edge to edge on a flat grassy area. This is the classic outdoor setup.
• Patio: Place on a patio against a back wall or railing to prevent bags sliding under the boards.
• Deck: Position horizontally across a deck opening. Hang boards on railings or build a freestanding frame.
• Garage: Use portable folding boards in front of an open garage door for seasonal play.

Make sure there's ample room around the cornhole area for players to stand and move between tosses. Having seating nearby like patio chairs or outdoor benches creates a relaxed vibe.

Backyard Cornhole Rules & Gameplay

The official rules for classic cornhole are:

• Players divide into two teams on opposite boards.
• Teams alternate tosses, going back and forth from board to board.
• Players must stay behind the front edge of the board when pitching bags.
• Bags in the hole score 3 points, while bags on the board score 1 point.
• The first team to 21+ points with a 2+ point lead wins!

Cornhole can easily be adapted for younger kids by moving boards closer together or using smaller bags. For a faster paced game, try eliminating cancellation scoring where bags cancel each other out. No matter how you play, backyard cornhole is classic entertainment for BBQs, tailgates, or anytime friends get together outside!

FAQs

What size should cornhole boards be?

Regulation cornhole boards are 4 feet x 2 feet with a 6 inch diameter hole cut out 9 inches from the top.

How far apart should cornhole boards be set up?

For tournament play, cornhole boards are placed 27 feet apart from front edge to front edge. For casual backyard play, anywhere from 15-30 feet apart works.

What is the best material for cornhole bags?

Duck cloth bags filled with 14-16 ounces of dried corn kernels are the standard for regulation play. Soft faux suede or microfiber bags are also popular options.

How many players can play cornhole at once?

Cornhole is best with 2 players or 2 teams of 2 players. You can have up to 4 players/teams take turns tossing from one side to the other.

What are some cornhole variations or rules changes?

Some popular variations are eliminating cancellation scoring, playing to 15 or 25 points, using smaller bags or boards for kids, and playing elimination-style matches.