Weekend DIY: Bean Bag Toss

The warmer weather is here, so let’s get out there and have some fun with this easy weekend project.

Our series of easy backyard projects continues this week with a family favorite: bean bag toss! You can build these boards with lumber you might have around the garage, or with a quick trip to the hardware store. The more fun part, though, is what goes on top: the decorating and design. We’ll show you how to get that portion right and have a fun game for your family that shows off your creativity and artistic side.

Step 1: Build The Boxes

You’ll need a few tools to construct the boxes themselves, which you can make as simple or as official as you like. The great thing is this won’t take much: a few 2x4s, some plywood and deck screws. The big feature that we’ll focus on is the plywood top: you want it to be at least a half-inch thick, and smooth. (Sand it down first if you need to.) Get those deck screws in and then putty over the holes for a smooth surface.

Step 2: Choose the Right Paint

You can prime the boards first if you want to, but it’s not necessary— it really depends on how elaborate you’re wanting to make the designs (and, let’s face it—if the kids are ready to paint, you can forget the primer). Look for a good, quality exterior paint that won’t get soaked up by the wood. Since your surface area is pretty small and you’ll likely want a range of colors, this is the one time we’ll tell you not to buy more paint than you think you’ll need (unless you’re ready to paint your house the same colors).

We generally recommend small brushes like the one seen above, but if you’re looking to cover a big area, you might want to have a small roller on hand.

Step 3: Get to Painting (Or Coloring)

There’s an alternative to paint if you’re worried about younger kids controlling a brush, or if you’re looking to minimize a mess: lumber crayons. These won’t show up as well on the boards, but with some adult help to fill in the gaps, they’ll work just fine. (And if the kids are happy, you’ll probably be happy, too.)

Step 4: Seal It Up

The most important step is the last one: the clear coat. This will protect your artwork and keep it from chipping. You want to look for a spray coating that is UV-resistant (so it doesn’t yellow) and you want a hard, smooth surface. Some clear coats have a mildly sticky surface when dry; you don’t want that. Look for one with good customer reviews.

Step 5: Have fun!

You’ll obviously need some beanbags; if you’re looking into getting into some serious games, consider duckcloth bags that will hold up to weather. Other beanbags come in all sorts of colors and designs, so it’s another great opportunity to get the kids involved, too. You’ll be ready for a summer filled with the “thonk” of beanbags on boards and the swish of a perfect toss.

And that’s it! You can check out more DIY and design ideas at @PropertyBrothers on Instagram and at @JonathanScott and @MrDrewScott. Happy DIY-ing!

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