Imagine the thrill of sinking a perfect shot into the cornhole, sending the beanbag sailing through the air and into the designated hole. Creating your own personalized cornhole bags adds an extra layer of satisfaction to this classic backyard game. With a bit of skill and a sewing machine, you can craft bags that are not only durable but also stylish enough to impress your friends and family. From selecting the right materials to mastering the sewing techniques, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the cornhole bag-making process, ensuring you hit the bullseye with every toss.
The foundation of any good cornhole bag lies in the materials you use. The traditional choice, duck canvas, is known for its durability and resistance to wear and tear. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, burlap or denim can also suffice. For the filling, dried corn is the classic choice, but you can also experiment with other materials such as plastic pellets or sand. The size and weight of your bags will depend on the size of your cornhole board and your personal preferences, so don’t be afraid to adjust the measurements accordingly.
Choosing the Right Materials
For optimal performance and durability, selecting the appropriate materials is crucial when crafting cornhole bags. Here’s a detailed breakdown of key considerations:
Fabric:
- Duck Canvas: A sturdy, tightly woven fabric that can withstand the impact of repeated tosses. Opt for a heavier weight (10 oz or more) for added strength.
- Cordura: A synthetic fabric renowned for its abrasion resistance and tear strength, making it a long-lasting option.
- Denim: A traditional choice for cornhole bags, denim is durable and provides a good grip. Select selvedge denim for cleaner edges and less fraying.
Thread:
- Heavy-Duty Upholstery Thread: Specifically designed for heavy fabrics, this thread is strong and will hold up to the wear and tear of cornhole play.
- Nylon Thread: Known for its elasticity and resistance to abrasion, nylon thread is a good choice for durable seams.
Filler:
- Ground Corn: The classic filler for cornhole bags, ground corn provides a uniform weight distribution and a comfortable feel.
- Plastic Pellets: A synthetic alternative to ground corn, plastic pellets offer consistent weight and a slightly firmer feel.
- Beans: Dried beans, such as pinto or kidney beans, can also be used as filler. They provide a slightly different texture and sound than corn or pellets.
Other Considerations:
- Seam Allowance: Add an extra 1/2 inch to the seam allowance for durability and to prevent fraying.
- Grain Direction: Cut fabric with the grain (parallel to the selvage) for added strength.
- Seam Finish: Use a zigzag stitch or serger to reinforce seams and prevent fraying.
Preparing the Fabric
The first step in sewing cornhole bags is to prepare the fabric. This involves washing, drying, and ironing the fabric to remove any wrinkles or creases. It is also important to pre-shrink the fabric by washing and drying it on high heat. This will help ensure that the bags do not shrink after they are sewn.
Once the fabric has been pre-shrunk, it is time to cut out the pieces for the bags. The size of the pieces will depend on the size of the bags you want to make. However, most cornhole bags are made from 12-inch squares of fabric.
Choosing the Right Fabric
The type of fabric you choose for your cornhole bags will depend on your personal preferences. However, there are a few factors to keep in mind when choosing fabric. First, the fabric should be durable and able to withstand the wear and tear of being thrown around.
Second, the fabric should be breathable so that the bags do not get too hot or sweaty. Finally, the fabric should be easy to care for and can be washed and dried without fading or shrinking.
Some good choices for cornhole bag fabric include:
| Fabric Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Duck Canvas | Durable, breathable, easy to care for | More expensive than other options |
| Cordura Nylon | Lightweight, durable, water-resistant | Can be slippery |
| Ripstop Nylon | Lightweight, durable, tear-resistant | Not as breathable as other options |
Cutting and Sewing the Inner Bag
Once your fabric is selected, cut out two rectangular pieces that measure 6 inches wide by 12 inches long. These will form the inner bag.
Place the fabric pieces right sides together and stitch around the edges using a 1/2-inch seam allowance. Leave a 2-inch opening on one side.
### Filling the Inner Bag
Turn the bag right side out and fill it with corn or plastic pellets. Fill the bag until it is about two-thirds full. This will ensure that the bag is not too heavy or too light.
Once the bag is filled, tuck the raw edges of the opening inward and stitch it closed by hand using a ladder stitch or a slip stitch.
Here is a more detailed description of the steps involved in filling the inner bag:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Turn the bag right side out. |
| 2 | Fill the bag with corn or plastic pellets until it is about two-thirds full. |
| 3 | Tuck the raw edges of the opening inward and stitch it closed by hand using a ladder stitch or a slip stitch. |
Filling the Inner Bag
Once your inner bag is sewn, it’s time to fill it with the desired weight of corn or plastic pellets. The weight of the bag will determine how it performs during gameplay, so it’s important to choose a weight that suits your playing style. Bags typically weigh between 14 and 16 ounces, but you can adjust the weight based on your preference.
To fill the bag, use a funnel to pour the corn or pellets into the opening. Fill the bag until it reaches the desired weight, then tie off the opening with a sturdy knot. Make sure the knot is secure to prevent the filling from spilling out during use.
Tips for Filling the Inner Bag
Here are a few tips to help you fill the inner bag properly:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
|
Use a funnel |
Using a funnel will help prevent spills and ensure that the filling goes into the bag cleanly. |
|
Fill the bag slowly |
Filling the bag slowly will help prevent the filling from compacting and becoming unevenly distributed. |
|
Weigh the bag as you fill it |
Weighing the bag as you fill it will help ensure that it reaches the desired weight. |
|
Tie the knot securely |
Tying the knot securely will prevent the filling from spilling out during use. |
Once the inner bag is filled, you can proceed to sewing the outer bag and assembling the finished cornhole bag.
Cutting and Sewing the Outer Bag
**Materials:**
– Duck cloth (100% cotton canvas fabric)
– Scissors or a rotary cutter
– Measuring tape or ruler
– Iron
– Thread
– Sewing machine
1. Cut the Fabric
Cut two rectangles of duck cloth measuring 27″ x 15″. These will form the outer sides of the bag.
2. Hem the Edges
Fold the raw edges of each rectangle twice by 1/4″ and press. Fold again by 1/2″ and press once more. Topstitch the hem close to the fold.
3. Join the Side Seams
Place the two rectangles right sides together and pin along the side edges. Stitch the sides using a 1/2″ seam allowance.
4. Create the Top and Bottom Channels
Fold the top and bottom edges of the bag by 1-1/2″. Press. Fold again by 3″ and press. Topstitch along the folded edges to create two channels for the insert bags.
5. Insert the Inner Bags
Sew two inner bags (sold separately) using the same steps as outlined above, but cut the fabric to 25″ x 13″. Place the inner bags inside the outer bag and align the edges. Topstitch around the top and bottom edges of the bag, catching the inner bags within the channels.
|
Channel Width |
Inner Bag Width |
|
3″ |
13″ |
Securing the Inner Bag to the Outer Bag
6. Sew the Inner Bag to the Outer Bag Using a Blind Stitch
Securely attach the inner bag to the outer bag by utilizing a blind stitch, meticulously concealing the stitches from the exterior surface. This method ensures a professional-looking finish while maintaining the integrity of the cornhole bag’s construction.
To execute a blind stitch, meticulously align the edges of both the inner and outer bags, ensuring that the fabrics are flush and free from wrinkles. Using a needle and thread that matches the fabric of the bags, begin sewing approximately half an inch from the outer edge, inserting the needle through the seam allowance of the outer bag only.
Next, following the outer bag’s seam allowance, guide the needle along the edge, inserting it into the inner bag approximately every quarter inch. As you stitch, ensure that the thread is drawn taut to secure the inner bag firmly to the outer bag. When the entire circumference of the bag has been stitched, knot the thread securely and trim any excess.
The blind stitch technique allows for a seamless and robust connection between the inner and outer bags, ensuring that the cornhole bag withstands vigorous use while preserving its aesthetic appeal.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Align the edges of the inner and outer bags. |
| 2 | Sew the bags together using a blind stitch. |
| 3 | Knot the thread securely and trim any excess. |
Finishing Touches
7. Flip the Bag and Top Stitch
Lay one bag flat with the seam facing down, align the other bag on top with the seam facing up, and insert the raw edges into the sewing machine. Top stitch around the bag, about 1/8 inch from the fold. Be sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of each stitch to secure the thread. Repeat this process for the other two bags.
This step will give your bags a professional finish and help to prevent the fabric from fraying.
If you want to add extra durability to your bags, you can also double stitch them around the edges. To do this, simply sew a second line of stitching around the bag, about 1/16 inch from the first line of stitching.
8. Fold and Press the Top Raw Edge
Fold the top raw edge of the bag down by about 1 inch. Press the fold with an iron to set it in place.
This will give your bags a clean, finished look.
9. Topstitch the Folded Edge
Top stitch around the bag, about 1/8 inch from the folded edge. Be sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of each stitch to secure the thread.
This will help to keep the folded edge in place and give your bags a professional finish.
Testing Your Bags
1. Weigh Your Bags
The official ACG regulations specify that cornhole bags must weigh between 14 and 16 ounces. To test your bags, weigh them on a kitchen scale. If they’re not within the specified range, adjust the amount of fill until they are.
2. Measure Your Bags
Cornhole bags must also be a specific size, 6 inches wide by 6 inches long. Measure your bags to make sure they meet these dimensions. If they’re too big or too small, adjust the seam allowance until they’re the correct size.
3. Test the Fill
The fill of your cornhole bags is crucial to their performance. The ideal fill is a blend of corn and plastic pellets. Experiment with different ratios of corn to pellets until you find a combination that gives you the desired weight, feel, and slide.
4. Test the Slide
The slide of your cornhole bags is also important. The bags should slide smoothly across the board without sticking or skipping. To test the slide, toss the bags onto a smooth surface and observe how they move. If they’re not sliding well, adjust the fill or the fabric of the bags.
5. Test the Toss
The final test is to see how your bags toss. Toss the bags onto a cornhole board from various distances and observe how they land. The bags should land flat on the board with minimal bounce or roll. If they’re not tossing well, adjust the weight, size, or fill of the bags.
6. Play a Game
The best way to test your cornhole bags is to play a game. This will give you a chance to see how the bags perform under real-world conditions. If you’re having trouble winning, make adjustments to your bags or your throwing technique.
7. Get Feedback from Others
Once you’ve tested your bags, get feedback from other players. They may have suggestions for how to improve the performance of your bags. Be open to their feedback and make adjustments as needed.
8. Make Adjustments as Needed
After testing your bags, you may need to make some adjustments to get them performing at their best. This could involve changing the weight, size, fill, or fabric of the bags. Make small adjustments and test the bags again until you’re satisfied with their performance.
Storing Your Cornhole Bags
To ensure your cornhole bags stay in good condition, proper storage is crucial. Here are some tips to help you store your bags effectively:
**1. Keep Them Dry:** Moisture can damage the fabric and filling of your bags. Store them in a dry place, away from sources of moisture such as rain or spills.
**2. Use a Storage Bag:** Store your bags in a protective storage bag made of breathable fabric like canvas or mesh. This allows air circulation and prevents moisture build-up.
**3. Avoid Extreme Temperatures:** Extreme heat or cold can damage the bags. Store them in a temperature-controlled environment, away from direct sunlight or freezing temperatures.
**4. Keep Them Off the Ground:** Store the bags elevated off the ground to prevent moisture absorption or damage from insects.
**5. Roll or Fold Them:** Instead of stuffing the bags, roll them up or fold them neatly. This prevents creases or damage to the fabric.
**6. Choose a Well-Ventilated Area:** Ensure the storage area has good ventilation to prevent stale odors or mildew.
**7. Use Cedar Blocks:** Place cedar blocks in the storage area to repel insects and deter odors.
**8. Store Similar Weights Together:** Store bags of the same weight together to maintain consistency and prevent damage from excessive weight on heavier bags.
| Bag Weight | Recommended Storage Method |
|---|---|
| 14-16 oz | Fold or roll tightly and store in a breathable storage bag |
| 18-22 oz | Roll loosely and store in a canvas storage bag |
**9. Inspect Regularly:** Periodically check your cornhole bags for signs of wear or damage. Repair any tears or holes promptly to prevent further damage.
Tips for Success
To achieve the best results when sewing cornhole bags, consider the following tips for success:
1. Choose the right fabric. Cotton canvas is the most commonly used fabric for cornhole bags, as it is durable and has a good grip. Duck cloth or twill are also suitable options.
2. Use a heavy-duty needle. A size 14 or 16 needle will be strong enough to sew through the thick fabric.
3. Use a strong thread. Polyester or nylon thread will provide the necessary strength to hold the seams together.
4. Double-stitch the seams. This will help to prevent the seams from ripping.
5. Use a square or template to cut the fabric. This will ensure that the bags are all the same size and shape.
6. Fill the bags with the correct amount of corn. A good starting point is 1 pound of corn per bag.
7. Sew the bags closed. Leave a small opening so that you can easily add or remove corn as needed.
8. Test the bags. Throw them a few times to make sure that they fly correctly.
9. Have fun! Cornhole is a great game for all ages.
10. Additional Tips for Sewing Cornhole Bags:
- Use a zipper foot to make it easier to sew around the curves.
- Use a serger to finish the seams for a more professional look.
- Add a handle to the bags for easy carrying.
- Experiment with different colors and patterns to create custom cornhole bags.
- Make a carrying case for your cornhole bags to keep them organized.
.
How to Sew Cornhole Bags
Cornhole is a popular game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a simple game to learn, but it can be challenging to master. One of the most important aspects of cornhole is having a good set of bags. You can buy cornhole bags, but they are also relatively easy to make. Here are the steps on how to sew cornhole bags:
- Gather your materials. You will need the following:
- 8 pieces of 10-inch square fabric
- Sewing machine
- Thread
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
- Funnel
- Cornhole beans
- Cut out your fabric pieces. You will need 4 pieces of the same color for the front of the bags and 4 pieces of a different color for the back of the bags.
- Sew the front and back pieces together. Place two pieces of fabric right sides together and sew around the edges, leaving a 2-inch opening. Repeat this process for the other two pieces of fabric.
- Turn the bags right side out. Use a funnel to fill the bags with cornhole beans. Fill the bags until they are about 2/3 full.
- Sew the opening closed. Hand-sew the opening closed using a whip stitch.
Your cornhole bags are now complete! Enjoy playing cornhole with your friends and family.
People Also Ask About How to Sew Cornhole Bags
What kind of fabric should I use to make cornhole bags?
You can use any type of fabric to make cornhole bags, but cotton twill or duck canvas are the most popular choices. These fabrics are durable and can withstand the wear and tear of the game. They are also easy to sew.
What size should the cornhole bags be?
Cornhole bags should be 6 inches wide by 6 inches high. This is the official size of cornhole bags, and it is the size that is used in tournaments.
How much corn should I put in each bag?
You should fill the bags until they are about 2/3 full. This will give the bags the right amount of weight and balance.
How do I sew the opening closed?
You can hand-sew the opening closed using a whip stitch. This is a simple stitch that is easy to learn.
