Garage tools, not a millwright shop
Drill and a saw get you most of the way. Hole saw, pocket-hole jig, and a circle jig are the upgrades that make Saturday smoother—projector and vinyl cutter if you’re dressing them up.
6" Hole Saw
Regulation cornhole hole is 6". A hole saw beats fighting a jigsaw in a circle—tape the cut first so pine doesn’t chip.
Jigsaw
No hole saw? A jigsaw still cuts the circle. Go slow, stay on the line, and sand the edge clean.
Cordless Drill
Pilot holes, hex bolts, screws—your drill earns its keep on this build.
3/8" Drill Bit
Sized for the hex bolts that hang the folding legs. Measure twice; pine forgives, your knuckles don’t.
9/16" Wrench
For snugging hex bolts and wing nuts so the legs stay put when the bags start flying.
Purdy Brush for Stain & Varnish
A decent brush leaves fewer streaks than the free one in the paint aisle. Your boards will thank you.
Circular Saw
Straight cuts on frame stock and legs. A miter saw is luxury; a circular saw gets it done.
Pocket-Hole Jig (Kreg-style)
Hide screw heads in the frame so it looks finished, not like a hardware demo. The beginner upgrade that shows up on every “pro tip” list.
Circle-Cutting Jig
Pair with a flush-trim bit for a factory hole edge—rough-cut with a jigsaw, then route to the line.
Flush-Trim Router Bit
Finishes the hole against a circular template so bags don’t catch on a wavy jigsaw edge.
1/4" Roundover Router Bit
Knock the sharp corners off the frame and top. Feels store-bought; saves shins and cooler lids.
Track Saw Guide
Break down plywood into straight, splinter-light panels before you mark the hole.
Brad / Finish Nail Gun
Useful when you’re building more than one set. Still glue the joints—nails aren’t a substitute for brains.
Portable Mini Projector
Throw a logo or sketch onto the board and trace it. Cheap projectors work—this isn’t a home theater.
Vinyl Cutter (Cricut-style)
Cut crisp stencils and lettering instead of freehanding everything. Transfer tape is the other half of the trick.