Cornhole, also known as bean bag toss, is a popular lawn game enjoyed by people of all ages. While you can purchase cornhole bags readily, making your own offers a rewarding DIY project, allowing for customization and potentially saving money. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of creating durable and fun cornhole bags.
What Materials Do I Need to Make Cornhole Bags?
Before you start, gather these essential materials:
- Fabric: Duck canvas is a popular choice for its durability and ability to hold its shape. Other sturdy fabrics like heavy-duty cotton or even vinyl can also work. Aim for a fabric weight of at least 10-12 ounces.
- Filling: Corn kernels are the traditional filling, providing a satisfying weight and consistent bounce. Dried beans, plastic pellets, or even sand are alternatives, each offering slightly different playing characteristics. Consider the weight and feel you prefer.
- Sewing Machine (or Needle & Thread): A sewing machine makes the process significantly faster, but it’s certainly possible to sew the bags by hand.
- Scissors: Sharp scissors are essential for clean cuts.
- Measuring Tape: Accurate measurements are crucial for consistent bag size.
- Iron & Ironing Board: Pressing the fabric will ensure clean seams and a professional finish.
- Pins: To hold the fabric together before sewing.
What Size Should My Cornhole Bags Be?
Standard cornhole bags are typically 6 inches by 6 inches. However, slight variations are acceptable. Maintaining consistent size across all your bags is more important than adhering strictly to these dimensions. Inconsistent bag sizes can affect gameplay.
How Much Filling Should I Use in Each Cornhole Bag?
The amount of filling will determine the weight and feel of your bags. Experiment to find what you like best, but aim for a weight between 14 and 16 ounces per bag. This provides a good balance of throwing ease and accuracy. Overfilling can make the bags too heavy and difficult to throw, while underfilling can lead to inconsistent bounces.
How Do I Sew the Cornhole Bags?
-
Cut the Fabric: Cut two squares of your chosen fabric, each measuring 6 inches by 6 inches. Ensure your cuts are straight and accurate.
-
Pin the Fabric: Place the two squares of fabric right sides together (with the printed or colored side facing inward). Pin the edges together, ensuring all four sides are neatly aligned.
-
Sew the Fabric: Sew around three sides of the square, leaving one side open for filling. Use a 1/4-inch seam allowance for strength.
-
Turn the Fabric Right Side Out: Carefully turn the fabric right side out through the open side. Use a tool, like a chopstick or pencil, to push out the corners to create a crisp, square shape.
-
Fill the Bags: Carefully fill each bag with your chosen filling material. Aim for a consistent weight across all bags.
-
Sew the Opening Closed: Once filled, hand-sew or machine-sew the remaining open side closed. A strong, secure stitch is important to prevent spills.
What are Some Tips for Making Durable Cornhole Bags?
- Double-stitching: For extra durability, double-stitch the seams.
- Reinforced Corners: Consider reinforcing the corners with additional stitching to prevent tearing.
- Choosing the Right Fabric: Use durable, heavy-weight fabric to withstand wear and tear.
What are the Different Filling Options for Cornhole Bags?
- Corn Kernels: The traditional and widely preferred filling. Provides a good balance of weight and bounce.
- Dried Beans: A cheaper alternative to corn kernels, but can be prone to splitting or breaking down over time.
- Plastic Pellets: Offer a consistent weight and are less prone to damage compared to beans, but may lack the "feel" of traditional fillings.
- Sand: Provides a heavier weight, but may not be ideal for all playing surfaces.
How Do I Care for My Homemade Cornhole Bags?
Proper care will extend the lifespan of your cornhole bags. After use, allow the bags to air dry completely before storing them in a dry place away from moisture. If the bags get dirty, spot clean them with a damp cloth.
By following these steps, you can create your own custom cornhole bags, perfectly suited to your preferences. Remember, the process is as much fun as the game itself! Enjoy creating your own unique set!
