How to Build Tabletop Game Boards
Games like chess and/or checkers can be played by people of all ages, and providing this opportunity will encourage youth, teens, adults, and seniors to frequent the playspace. These games can also be a perfect catalyst for playspace programming! They can also add to the beautification of a playspace. Ideally, this project involves adding a twist to existing, ordinary picnic tables.
Download InstructionsMaterials and tools
| Quantity: | Materials: |
|---|---|
| 1 | ¾"x4x8' sanded plywood board |
| Adjust as needed | Paint supplies |
| Adjust as needed | Sandpaper sheets |
| Adjust as needed | Primer |
| ½lb | 1 ⅝" deck screws |
| Optional | Yard stick |
| Tools needed: |
|---|
| Circular saw |
| Pencil |
| Tape measure |
| Chalk line |
| Exterior paint |
| Painter's tape |
Preparation instructions
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Sort all materials into piles by like items to ensure you have materials needed to complete project.
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Measure the surface that the table-top game board will be attached to.
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Using the measuring tape and chalk line, measure a rectangle on the plywood board with matching dimensions to your table-top surface.
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Using the circular saw, cut the plywood down to match your table-top measurements.
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Sand all edges until smooth.
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Prime both sides and all edges.
Build instructions
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Before building, inventory and sort all of your materials.
Quantity: Inventory: 1 Prepared plywood piece -
Decide what type of game board you would like to make. Popular choices are chess/checkerboards, Chutes and Ladders, tic-tac-toe, or Dots.
- If you are making a board for a game that requires players to write or draw (ex. Tic-tac-toe), use chalk paint on the game board and provide chalk for players!
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Use the yard stick, painter's tape, and pencils to create the outline for your game.
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Fill in your game using exterior paint and painting supplies.
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When the piece is dry, attach it to the table top surface using the 1 ⅝" deck screws.
