Ready to take your backyard barbecue or tailgate party to the next level? Cornhole, also known as bean bag toss, is a classic game that’s easy to learn, fun for all ages, and always a crowd-pleaser. But what's a cornhole game without the bags? Store-bought bags can be expensive, and often lack that personal touch. The good news is, crafting your own cornhole bags is a surprisingly simple and rewarding DIY project! Not only will you save money, but you'll also have the satisfaction of playing with bags you made yourself, customized with your favorite colors, patterns, or even team logos. Get ready to unleash your creativity and elevate your cornhole game with these easy-to-follow instructions.
Making your own cornhole bags offers a ton of advantages. Beyond the cost savings and personalized designs, it's a great way to learn basic sewing skills and involve kids in a fun project. Plus, you can ensure your bags are made with quality materials and the perfect weight for optimal gameplay. A well-made set of cornhole bags can last for years, providing endless entertainment for family and friends. So, grab your sewing machine (or needle and thread!), gather your supplies, and let’s get started on creating the perfect cornhole bags for your next get-together.
But what kind of fabric should I use? How much do I fill them? And what about the weight requirements?
What type of fabric is best for cornhole bags?
Duck cloth, specifically 10-12 ounce duck cloth, is widely considered the best fabric for cornhole bags. It provides the ideal balance of durability, weight, and slide characteristics for optimal gameplay. Lighter fabrics won't hold up to repeated use, while heavier fabrics can make the bags too bulky and affect their feel.
Duck cloth's tight weave is key to its durability. This tight weave helps prevent the corn or resin fill from leaking out during regular play. Additionally, the smooth, slightly textured surface of duck cloth offers a consistent and predictable slide across the cornhole board. Other fabrics, such as canvas or denim, can work in a pinch, but they tend to be either too rough or not durable enough for long-term use. Avoid fabrics with excessive stretch or patterns that might affect the bag's trajectory. Ultimately, the feel of the fabric is also important. Some players prefer a slightly softer feel, while others prefer a more rigid feel. However, sticking with the recommended 10-12 ounce duck cloth will provide the best combination of playability and longevity. You can also experiment with different colors and prints to personalize your bags, but always prioritize the quality and weight of the duck cloth itself.How much corn should I use to fill each bag?
Each cornhole bag should be filled with approximately 15 to 16 ounces (about 425-454 grams) of whole kernel corn. This weight is crucial for proper game play and adhering to standard regulations.
Filling the bags to the correct weight ensures they fly consistently and land with the appropriate impact on the board. Too little corn, and the bags will be too light, making them susceptible to wind and less likely to stay on the board. Too much corn, and the bags will be too heavy and hard, potentially damaging the boards and making them difficult to toss accurately. Using whole kernel corn is also important. Do not use cracked corn or feed corn, as these will break down too quickly and create dust. The corn should be dry and free from any signs of mold or mildew to prevent rot and ensure a long lifespan for your cornhole bags. Over time, the corn will break down from use, so be prepared to replace it periodically to maintain optimal performance.What are the official size and weight regulations for cornhole bags?
Official cornhole bags, as regulated by the American Cornhole League (ACL) and most other leagues, must be 6 inches by 6 inches square and weigh between 14 and 16 ounces each.
These regulations ensure fair play and consistency across different cornhole games and tournaments. Using bags outside of these specifications could be considered cheating or simply disallowed in a competitive setting. The size and weight are carefully chosen to provide a balance between being easy to handle and having enough heft to be consistently thrown. The precise weight is especially important. Bags significantly lighter might be more susceptible to wind, while bags significantly heavier could be more difficult to control, and both impact how the bags slide or land on the cornhole board. These regulated specs are designed to create a more level playing field for all competitors.What is the best stitch to use for closing the cornhole bags?
The best stitch for closing cornhole bags is a double-stitched seam using a heavy-duty thread. This provides the necessary durability to withstand the constant tossing and impact that cornhole bags endure during gameplay.
A double-stitched seam essentially means sewing the seam twice, overlapping the previous stitch slightly. This reinforces the closure, minimizing the risk of the bag splitting open and spilling its contents. The use of heavy-duty thread is equally important. Standard sewing thread may not be strong enough to handle the stress of the game. Look for thread specifically designed for upholstery, denim, or outdoor use, as these are typically thicker and more durable. Furthermore, consider using a reinforced backstitch at the beginning and end of the seam. A backstitch involves stitching backward a short distance over the beginning and end points, essentially locking the thread in place. This prevents the seam from unraveling even if a single stitch breaks. When selecting your fabric and thread, ensure they are compatible. A strong thread paired with a flimsy fabric won't provide the necessary durability. Similarly, a weak thread will negate the benefits of a high-quality fabric. Proper tension on your sewing machine is also crucial. Too tight, and the thread may break under stress; too loose, and the seam will be weak. Experiment on scrap fabric before sewing the final seams to ensure the correct tension setting.How do I properly measure and cut the fabric for consistent bag sizes?
To ensure consistent bag sizes for your cornhole game, create a precise template and use it for all your fabric cuts. Accuracy in measurement and cutting is paramount for uniform weight distribution and playability across all your bags.
For the best results, start by making a durable template. A piece of cardboard or sturdy plastic cut to the exact dimensions you need (typically 6 inches by 6 inches for cornhole bags) works well. Once you have your template, lay your fabric out on a flat, stable surface. Multiple layers can be cut at once to speed up the process if your fabric is thin enough and your cutting tool is sharp enough to maintain accuracy through all the layers. Secure the template to the fabric using weights or pins to prevent it from shifting during cutting. When cutting, use a rotary cutter with a sharp blade and a cutting mat for the cleanest, most accurate edges. If you don't have a rotary cutter, sharp fabric scissors will also work. Carefully trace around the template, ensuring you follow the edges precisely. If you're using scissors, make long, smooth cuts to avoid jagged edges. Remember to double-check your measurements after cutting the first few pieces to ensure your template is still accurate and you haven't made any errors. A little extra time spent at this stage will prevent uneven bags and improve your game.How can I waterproof cornhole bags?
While completely submerging cornhole bags is never recommended, you can enhance their water resistance by using water-resistant fabrics like duck cloth treated with a waterproofing spray, or opting for synthetic fabrics such as outdoor canvas. Applying multiple coats of fabric sealant specifically designed for outdoor use is also effective.
To elaborate, the most significant factor in waterproofing cornhole bags is the fabric choice. Traditional duck cloth, while durable, is absorbent. Switching to a treated duck cloth or a synthetic material will create an initial barrier against moisture. However, the seams are still vulnerable. Using a waterproof thread and a tight stitch when sewing the bags will help minimize water entry. After the bags are sewn, apply a fabric sealant evenly across the entire surface. Look for sealants marketed for outdoor gear or upholstery. Consider the fill material as well. While corn kernels are standard, they will mold if they get wet. Switching to plastic resin pellets would eliminate this issue. However, be aware that resin pellets will change the way the bags feel and play. Another strategy, if you stick with corn, is to bake the filled bags in a low-temperature oven (around 200°F) for a few hours after any potential dampening. This dries them out and helps prevent mold. Remember to monitor them closely to prevent scorching.Can I use something other than corn to fill the bags?
Yes, you can absolutely use alternatives to corn for filling your cornhole bags. While corn is the traditional and most common filling, materials like dried beans, plastic resin pellets, or sand offer different weights, feels, and durability.
The choice of filling depends on your preference for bag weight, desired slide characteristics, and tolerance for potential issues like moisture damage or pest attraction. Dried beans, such as kidney beans or pinto beans, are a natural and biodegradable option but can be susceptible to mold or insect infestation if the bags get wet. Plastic resin pellets are waterproof, making them more durable and less prone to damage. Sand provides a heavier feel, which some players prefer for stability in windy conditions.
When selecting an alternative filling, consider the overall impact on gameplay. Lighter fillings will result in less consistent throws, while heavier fillings can make the bags more difficult to control. Experimenting with different materials and quantities will help you find the perfect filling to suit your playing style and environment. Also, be mindful of any regulations if using the bags for official tournaments, as some leagues may have specific rules regarding acceptable fillings.
And there you have it! You've got everything you need to whip up your own set of cornhole bags and get the games started. Thanks for following along, and we hope you have tons of fun tossing! Be sure to check back soon for more fun DIY projects and game ideas.