Here’s a quick summary of how to slick cornhole boards in 8 easy steps.
- Clean the board
- Apply Polyurethane or Polycrylic
- Let dry
- Lightly sand
- Follow steps 2-4 until your last layer
- Apply your last layer
- Let dry
- Apply one layer to the rest of the board
If you are building your own cornhole board you want the best finish. A bad finish can ruin the fun if the surface isn’t slick enough. Below, I will help you get the best finish on your perfect cornhole board.
What is the best finish for a cornhole board?
The first aspect to consider is the type of finish you want to use. There are quite a few options to consider, but there are two you would generally consider the best. They are polyurethane and polycrylic.
Polyurethane has oil-based and water-based options while polycrylic is solely water-based. These three are very similar but have little nuances that make each option better for a job.
Oil-based polyurethane has some good qualities. It is the most durable and holds up best to high temperatures. However, it will dry a little yellow and it is pretty toxic.
Water-based polyurethane is durable enough, but not as much as oil-based. The trade-off is that it is fast drying and less toxic. And the best part is that it will dry completely clear, unlike oil-based options.
Polycrylic is weaker than the other options and has the potential for a milky appearance but will dry clear. It is a fast-drying option as well, but you are more likely to cause damage if you attempt to coat before it finishes curing.
What polycrylic does have going for it, is that it does not contain toxic components. Also, it is your cheapest option than the other choices.
Since these three work better with different wood colors and circumstances, you will be responsible for knowing, ultimately what option to choose. With all things considered, I would recommend water-based polyurethane as the best option for most cornhole boards.
How will paint effect the finish?
If you’ve painted your board before you apply the finish, just keep in mind that can change how the finish behaves. Lucky for your personalisations approaching the board, the effect is typically small notice.
If you’re going with polycrylic over latex paints, it can take longer for the finish to dry. Sometimes, it make it harder to stick.
What do I need to make my board slick?
Preparation is everything. Besides the materials and tools I’ll list below, you’ll want to have a workspace set up.
Your workspace should be dust-free (especially if using oil-based polyurethane) and well ventilated if possible. If you can, put down a tarp under your board to prevent any mess as much as possible.
The materials and tools you’ll need are as follows:
- Finish of your choice
- Foam paintbrush
- Tarp
- Washcloth
- 320 grit sandpaper
How do I make my cornhole board slick?
#1 Clean the board
This first step is super important. Make sure your board is clean, because anything on your board (dust, dirt, hair, etc.) will be sealed in. A damp washcloth works well for this, and dry it afterwards.
This is also why it is important to have a dust free work space, if something gets in your finish while it is drying, you are going to have a hard time getting it out later.
#2 Apply a layer of finish
It’s important to follow the instructions on the finish container. And remember, you don’t have to shake it like you would with paint.
Place the board flat and apply the finish, using your foam paint brush. Don’t rush, take your time to get an even coat on properly.
#3 Let the layer dry
Usually, this’ll only take a few hours. One potential way to accelerate the drying process is to use a small fan on a low speed but definitely let the poly settle for a bit first. Usually you want to wait about 20 – 30 minutes.
#4 Gently sand
When the poly is 100% cured, we will very lightly sand the surface using 320 grit sandpaper, which will allow the next layer to adhere to the previous layer. Also, it is an opportunity to give a last-minute polish to any imperfections. Be careful not to sand the decals!
#5 Repeat steps 2 through 4 until the last layer
No matter which material you’re using, you will want multiple layers. A good average is between 5 and 10. Apply closer to 10 layers if you are using less durable materials.
#6 Apply the last layer
Apply the last layer just as you have before.
#7 Let the layer dry
Give it several hours to dry. If you want to speed it up consider using a fan as mentioned above. If you’re working outside you may not need to.
#8 Coat the rest of the board
You can absolutely just stop once you coat the top! However, I always think it’s best to coat the remaining surfaces too.
You don’t have to apply much, but I would at least do one layer on the rest of it! By sealing the piece fully, you will add much better humidity resistance to the piece. It’ll also look significantly more professional compared to just a topcoat.
Final Thoughts
You seal your cornhole board and should now wait about three days for the finish to cure completely.
Now, you know how to make cornhole boards slick! Like I said, it is a lengthy process because of drying times, but well worth it.