DIY Washer Toss Game

Looking for a fun and easy backyard game you can build yourself? This DIY washer toss game is a quick woodworking project that’s perfect for camping trips, backyard gatherings, and family game nights.

It’s compact, durable, and easy to customize—and you can build it in just a few hours using basic tools and materials.

What Is Washer Toss?

Washer toss is a simple, family-friendly outdoor game similar to cornhole. Players toss metal washers toward a target box with a recessed cup, aiming to score points based on where the washer lands.

• Played with 2 teams
• Boards are placed about 21 feet apart
• First team to reach exactly 21 points wins

How to Play Washer Toss

There are a few variations, but here’s the scoring method and game rules we play by:

Basic Rules:

• Each team gets 2 washers per round
• Players alternate throws
• Only one team scores per round

Scoring:

• Washer in the cup = 5 points
• Washer in the box = 3 points
• Washer within 12″ of the box = 1 point

Additional Rules:

• Matching points from both teams cancel out (“wash”)
• You must land on exactly 21 points (no going over)
• If you go over, your score resets to 13 points

Materials Needed

• 2 – 2×4 boards @ 8′ (or 2×6 ripped to 3 1/2″)
• 1/2″ plywood (2′ x 4′)
• 4″ PVC pipe (cut into 2 cups)
• Indoor/outdoor carpet
• 1″ washers (4–8 total)
• Spray paint (for washers)

Supplies:

• DAP Weldwood Original Wood Glue
• DAP RapidFuse All-Purpose Spray Adhesive
• DAP Premium Wood Filler
• DAP Tank Bond Clear Epoxy

Fasteners:

• 2″ brad nails
• 1 1/4″ brad nails
• 1 1/4″ wood screws

Tools Required

• Miter saw
• Table saw (optional)
• Brad nailer or drill
• Sander
• Scissors
• Measuring tape

Step-by-Step: How to Build a Washer Toss Game

Step 1: Cut the Frame Pieces

• Cut boards to 16″ lengths with 45° miters
• OR use butt joints:
  • (4) boards @ 16″
  • (4) boards @ 13″

Step 2: Cut the Plywood Base

• Cut (2) pieces of 1/2″ plywood to 16″ x 16″

Step 3: Sand All Pieces

Sand all wood before assembly for a smoother finish and easier workflow.

Step 4: Assemble the Frames

• Apply wood glue to corners
• Secure with 2″ brad nails or screws
• Use pilot holes if screwing to prevent splitting

Step 5: Attach the Bottom Panels

• Apply wood glue to frame
• Secure plywood with 1 1/4″ brad nails

Step 5: Cut and install the PVC Cups

• Cut PVC pipe into 3 1/2″ tall sections
• Center inside each box and trace the inside and outside edges of the PVC
• Drill three small pilot holes between the lines you traced
• Attach using epoxy
• Drive screws through the pilot holes in the bottom of the box, going into the PVC to reinforce the cups

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