Corn Hole Boards: Painting Guide And Tips

Cornhole is a beloved game, often played at gatherings and parties. It is a simple game that involves tossing bean bags into holes in a wooden board. If you're looking to make your own cornhole set or revamp an old one, painting the boards is a great way to add a personal touch and make them stand out. Painting your cornhole boards is a fun and creative process that can be done in a few simple steps. From preparing the boards to sealing the paint, this guide will teach you how to paint a set of cornhole boards and make them the highlight of your next gathering.

Prepare your work area and boards

Preparing your work area and cornhole boards is a crucial step in the painting process. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Choose a Well-Ventilated Work Area

Select an outdoor space or an indoor room with good ventilation to prevent the buildup of paint fumes. If working indoors, keep the windows or doors open during the painting process. It's important to ensure a constant supply of fresh air to create a comfortable and safe working environment.

Prepare a Clean Work Surface

Lay down drop cloths or protective coverings on your work surface to catch any paint drips or spills. This will help keep your work area clean and minimise the mess created during painting. If working in a garage or enclosed space, consider laying drop cloths on the floor or on a workbench to protect the surrounding areas.

Sand the Cornhole Boards

Lightly sand the cornhole boards using a sanding sponge, orbital sander, or sandpaper. This step helps create a smooth and even surface for the paint to adhere to. It is especially important if your boards haven't been sanded before. Remember to wipe the boards with a clean, lint-free cloth after sanding to remove any dust or debris.

Fill Holes and Imperfections

Inspect your cornhole boards for any small holes, knots, or imperfections in the wood. Use a putty knife to fill these areas with wood filler. Smooth out the filler with the putty knife and let it dry according to the manufacturer's instructions, typically around 8 hours. This step ensures a smooth and uniform surface before applying paint.

Apply a Primer

Use a brush, roller, or spray to apply a thin layer of primer to the cornhole boards. Primers, such as oil-based primers, help the paint adhere better to the wood surface. Allow the primer to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions, usually for at least one hour. If using spray primer, shake the can before use and follow the specific instructions provided.

Draw Your Design (Optional)

If you plan to create a detailed design or pattern, use a pencil to sketch it directly on the primed boards. This step will give you a guide for painting. For geometric designs or straight lines, use a ruler or yardstick to ensure accuracy. You can also use painter's tape to create crisp edges and lines or to section off different areas for multiple colours.

By following these steps, you'll have a well-prepared work area and cornhole boards that are ready for painting. Remember to take your time, work in a well-ventilated space, and always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific products you're using.

Choose your paint

Choosing the right paint is essential for achieving the desired look and ensuring the longevity of your cornhole boards. Here are some factors to consider when selecting paint for your cornhole boards:

Type of Paint

The type of paint you choose will impact the overall finish and durability of your cornhole boards. Exterior latex paint is a popular choice for cornhole boards as it offers a durable and weather-resistant finish, making it ideal for outdoor use. Acrylic paint is perfect for adding fine details and vibrant colours to your design. If you want to showcase the natural beauty of the wood, consider using a wood stain, which can enhance the grain pattern and add a classic touch to your boards.

Gloss Level

Decide on the desired gloss level for your cornhole boards. Do you prefer a matte, semi-gloss, or high-gloss finish? A matte finish gives a more subtle and natural look, while a semi-gloss or high-gloss finish adds shine and sleekness to the boards. Consider the lighting conditions where the boards will be used, as glossier finishes can reflect light and cause glare.

Colour and Design

Select a colour that reflects your personality or the theme of your game set. Consider using complementary colours or contrasting shades to create a bold, eye-catching design. You can also choose to paint each board in different colours, such as those of your favourite sports teams, to add a unique twist to your game.

Primer and Sealer

Using a primer before painting is essential to ensure the paint adheres well to the wood. Oil-based primers are recommended for cornhole boards as they penetrate deeper into the wood and provide a stronger base for the paint. After painting, apply a sealer to protect the paint job and add durability. Polyurethane and Polycrylic sealers are popular choices, with Polycrylic being known for its quick-drying properties and the need for only three coats.

Painting Tools

Consider whether you will be using a brush, roller, or spray paint to apply the paint. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, so choose the one that best suits your design plans and skill level. Brushes are great for detailed work, while rollers can cover larger areas quickly. Spray paint can provide an even finish but may require more practice to master.

Remember to always read the manufacturer's instructions for proper usage and drying times, and don't be afraid to experiment with different paints and techniques to find the combination that works best for your cornhole boards!

Apply primer

Once you've assembled the basic wooden boards, it's time to prepare the wood by filling, sanding, and priming them. Before you start, set up your work area. Choose a well-ventilated space to paint the cornhole boards to prevent the buildup of paint fumes. Paint the boards outside or use an indoor room that has windows or doors you can open. Lay down drop cloths on a flat work surface to prevent the paint from making a mess.

Now, apply a primer. Priming is essential to creating an even base and helping colours adhere effectively, ensuring durability and a long-lasting finish. Oil-based primers work best with wood because they will penetrate deep into the wood and dry harder than water-based primers. Any bare surface that has never been painted needs to be primed. You can use a brush or roller to apply a thin layer of primer over both cornhole boards.

If you're using a spray primer, shake your can of primer spray paint for at least two minutes. Flip it upside down and spray a couple of quick sprays to ensure the nozzle is clear. Step back at least 8–12 inches and spray light coats, moving in a quick back-and-forth motion. Because this is unfinished wood, the primer will soak in quickly, so return to the first board and repeat the process. You will need at least two coats of primer.

Let the primer dry for at least one hour or according to the manufacturer's instructions. You can then draw your pattern on the boards. If you're creating a detailed pattern or design, use a pencil to draw the design directly on the primed boards. This will give you an outline to follow when painting.

Paint your design

Now it's time for the fun part: painting your design! If you're creating a detailed pattern or design, take a pencil and sketch your design directly onto the primed boards. This will give you an outline to follow when painting. If you're making geometric designs, use a ruler or yardstick to draw straight lines.

Select your paint colour and pour it into a tray. Tap your roller into the paint and roll it along the tray's slope to apply the paint evenly. Repeat this step a few times before painting the board. Gently press down and roll the paint onto the board using a 'V' formation, going back and forth carefully and gradually overlapping the paint until you achieve a uniform application. Work slowly and carefully near the edges to prevent paint from dripping down the sides of the board.

If you're adding extra colours or details, dip your paintbrush into another colour and paint along your design. For a truly unique cornhole board set, consider painting each board different colours, such as the colours of your favourite sports teams. You can also use painter's tape to create crisp edges or lines. Measure and mark where you want the tape to go, then lay it down and use your base coat to "seal" the tape along the edges, preventing any bleeding when you apply the next colour.

You can also use a stencil to create more intricate designs with lots of swirls or small curves.

Seal your boards

Sealing your cornhole boards is a critical step in ensuring your paint job is protected and that your boards are slick for smooth gameplay.

There are several options for sealing products, including Polycrylic, Polyurethane, and a clear coat. Polycrylic is a popular choice because it is quick-drying, only requiring 3 coats, and will protect your boards well. It adds a subtle sheen without making the boards too slick. Polyurethane is another option, which seals the paint, protects the boards from wear, and gives them a slick finish. You can also use a clear coat of polycrylic, which will protect the paint and make your boards shiny and slick. If you want to avoid a glossy finish, you can opt for a matte or semi-gloss finish clear coat.

Before sealing, ensure your boards are clean and free of any dust or lint. Ventilate your work area, but be mindful of any breeze that could interfere with the sealing process. Apply the sealer with a brush or roller, following the manufacturer's instructions for drying times and the number of coats required.

Once your boards are sealed, store them in a covered, protected, and dry location when not in use to keep them looking fresh and avoid damage.

Frequently asked questions