How to Make Corn Hole Game Bags: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cornhole is a popular outdoor game that’s enjoyed by people of all ages. The game involves throwing beanbags (also known as cornhole bags) onto a raised platform with a hole in it. While you can purchase commercial cornhole bags, making your own game bags can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making your own cornhole game bags.
Materials Needed
Before we dive into the process, let’s go over the materials you’ll need to make cornhole game bags:
- Felt or canvas fabric (12 oz or heavier)
- Polyester fiberfill (or other stuffing material)
- Thread (matching the color of your fabric)
- Sewing machine
- Scissors
- Ruler or measuring tape
- Pencil or marker
- Cornhole bag pattern or template (optional)
Designing Your Cornhole Game Bags
Before you start sewing, you’ll need to decide on the design and size of your game bags. Here are a few things to consider:
- Size: Standard cornhole bags are 6 inches wide and 6 inches long. However, you can make them larger or smaller depending on your preference.
- Color: Choose a color that matches your team or personal style. You can also use a combination of colors to create a unique design.
- Fabric: Felt or canvas fabric works well for cornhole bags because it’s durable and easy to clean. You can also use other materials like denim or cotton.
Cutting Out the Fabric
Once you’ve decided on your design, it’s time to cut out the fabric. You’ll need two identical pieces for each bag:
- Cutting template: Use a cornhole bag pattern or template to ensure your pieces are the correct size and shape.
- Cutting fabric: Cut out two pieces of fabric using the template. Make sure to cut them exactly the same size and shape.
Sewing the Bag
Now it’s time to sew the bag together:
- Right sides together: Place the two fabric pieces right sides together, meaning the wrong sides are facing out.
- Sew around the edges: Sew around the edges of the fabric, leaving a small opening at the top.
- Turn the bag right side out: Carefully turn the bag right side out through the small opening.
- Press the seams: Use a hot iron to press the seams flat, making sure they’re secure and won’t come undone.
Stuffing the Bag
It’s time to add some stuffing to your bag:
- Polyester fiberfill: Use polyester fiberfill or other stuffing material to fill the bag.
- Stuffing the bag: Stuff the bag firmly, making sure it’s evenly filled and not lopsided.
Closing the Opening
Once the bag is stuffed, it’s time to close the opening:
- Hand-stitching: Hand-stitch the opening shut using a whipstitch or other durable stitch.
- Thread the needle: Thread the needle with thread that matches the color of your fabric.
- Make a small stitch: Make a small stitch at the edge of the opening, then insert the needle back into the fabric and make another small stitch.
- Continue stitching: Continue stitching around the edge of the opening, making sure it’s secure and won’t come undone.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to keep in mind:
- Use a stabilizing material: If you’re using a thin or stretchy fabric, consider adding a stabilizing material like interfacing or fusible web to prevent stretching or distortion.
- Add a layer of protection: Consider adding a layer of protection to the bottom of the bag to prevent scratching or damage.
- Make custom designs: Get creative and make custom designs on your fabric using fabric paint, markers, or appliques.
- Use different shapes: Experiment with different shapes and sizes to create unique and personalized game bags.
Conclusion
Making your own cornhole game bags is a fun and rewarding DIY project. With the right materials and a little creativity, you can create custom game bags that reflect your personal style and team spirit. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced sewer, the process is easy to follow and requires minimal equipment. So why not give it a try and create your own cornhole game bags today?
Table: Cornhole Bag Specifications
| Specification | Standard Size | Custom Size |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 6 inches | 5-8 inches |
| Length | 6 inches | 5-8 inches |
| Material | Felt or canvas | Cotton, denim, or other materials |
| Thread color | Matching fabric | Contrasting fabric or decorative thread |
| Stabilizing material | Interfacing or fusible web | None or alternative materials |
| Protection layer | No | Yes |
| Custom design | Yes | Yes |
Table: Tips and Variations
| Tip or Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a stabilizing material | Prevent stretching or distortion |
| Add a layer of protection | Prevent scratching or damage |
| Make custom designs | Use fabric paint, markers, or appliques |
| Use different shapes | Experiment with unique and personalized designs |
| Try alternative materials | Use cotton, denim, or other materials |
Bulleted List: Benefits of Making Your Own Cornhole Game Bags
• Customization: Make game bags that reflect your personal style and team spirit
• Cost-effective: Save money by making your own game bags instead of purchasing commercial ones
• Durable: Use high-quality materials to create durable game bags that last for years
• Unique designs: Experiment with different fabrics, colors, and designs to create one-of-a-kind game bags
• Fun and rewarding: Making your own game bags is a fun and rewarding DIY project
