The American Cornhole Organization specifies a hardwood plywood top 47.5 to 48 inches long by 23.5 to 24 inches wide, with a 6-inch hole centered 9 inches from the top. Its approved construction uses at least 1/2-inch plywood with cross-section backing, or 3/4-inch plywood with or without backing.
Building a board is mostly a matter of keeping both tops flat, matching the hole layout, and supporting the plywood without leaving ridges that affect a bag. The measurements below follow the American Cornhole Organization’s board rules.
Top dimensions and hole layout
| ACO board detail | Specification |
|---|---|
| Playing surface | 47.5 to 48 in long by 23.5 to 24 in wide |
| Top thickness | At least 1/2 in with cross-section backing, or 3/4 in with or without backing |
| Hole diameter | 6 in |
| Hole center | 9 in from the top edge, centered side to side |
| Front height | 3 to 4 in |
| Back height | 12 in |
Use the same dimensions for both boards. The 9-inch measurement locates the hole center; it is not the distance to the nearest edge of the cutout.
Plywood and support
The ACO specifies hardwood plywood as the playing surface. If you use a 1/2-inch top, its rule calls for cross-section backing; a 3/4-inch top can be used with or without that backing. Make the frame square and keep the top supported so that it stays flat under repeated bag impacts.
Check the cut top on a level surface before fastening it. A twisted top or uneven support can make two otherwise identical boards play differently. Keep fasteners and frame edges below the playing surface, where they cannot catch a bag.
Smooth finish
Sand the top to a smooth texture and remove blemishes that could disrupt play. The ACO allows paint or varnish. Its equipment rules say the surface should let bags slide when thrown without being so slippery that they slide back down the platform. Follow the finish maker’s instructions for preparation and curing.
Build for casual play or regulation dimensions?
For a backyard set, the main decision is whether to copy the full-size ACO dimensions or build smaller boards for limited space and easier transport. Smaller boards can suit a patio or travel game; compare tailgate and regulation board sizes, then use the board dimensions and court-distance guide if you want to practice regulation throws. Match board size to the cornhole bag size and fill guide, then browse cornhole for rules and gear. If the yard needs a rally-game option too, compare badminton and volleyball combo sets.
Source
Common questions
How thick should a cornhole board top be?
The ACO specification allows a minimum 1/2-inch hardwood plywood top with cross-section backing, or 3/4-inch plywood with or without backing.
Where does the hole go on a cornhole board?
The ACO hole is 6 inches in diameter, centered side to side and 9 inches from the top edge to the hole center.
Should a cornhole board be painted or sealed?
The ACO permits paint or varnish and calls for a smooth surface. Choose a finish that leaves the playing surface smooth and keeps bags from sliding back down the board.
Can I use smaller boards for travel?
Yes for casual play, but a smaller board will not meet the ACO playing-surface dimensions.