How to Build a Wooden Dartboard Cabinet with Fold-Out Doors
A wooden dartboard cabinet with fold-out doors is a great addition to any game room or man cave. It protects your dartboard, provides storage for darts and accessories, and adds a professional look. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of building your own wooden dartboard cabinet.
Materials and Tools Needed
Materials:
- ¾-inch plywood or hardwood (for the cabinet body)
- ½-inch plywood (for cabinet doors)
- Hinges (2-4, depending on design)
- Magnetic latches or cabinet catches
- Wood glue
- Wood screws
- Sandpaper (120-220 grit)
- Wood stain or paint
- Polyurethane finish (optional)
- Small chains or door stays (to limit door opening)
- Dartboard mounting hardware
Tools:
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Circular saw or table saw
- Jigsaw (if you want a decorative cut)
- Power drill
- Clamps
- Screwdriver
- Sander or sanding block
- Paintbrush or rags for staining
Step 1: Measure and Cut the Wood
To start, you need to determine the size of your cabinet. Standard dartboards are about 18 inches in diameter, so the cabinet should be at least 22-24 inches wide to allow clearance.
Cut List:
- Back panel: 24” x 30” (adjust as needed for your dartboard)
- Top and bottom panels: 24” x 5”
- Side panels: 30” x 5”
- Doors (2 pieces): 12” x 30” each
- Shelf (optional, for dart storage): 20” x 3”
Use a circular saw or table saw to make precise cuts. Sand all edges smooth before assembly.
Step 2: Assemble the Cabinet Frame
- Apply wood glue to the edges of the side panels and attach them to the back panel.
- Secure the top and bottom panels in place using wood screws. Pre-drill holes to prevent splitting.
- If adding a shelf, install it at your desired height using wood glue and screws.
Clamp everything together and let the glue dry before proceeding.
Step 3: Make and Attach the Doors
- Take the two 12” x 30” door panels and sand them smooth.
- If desired, route or cut a decorative edge for aesthetics.
- Attach hinges to the doors, then mount them to the cabinet frame. Ensure they open and close smoothly.
- Install magnetic latches or cabinet catches to keep the doors closed when not in use.
- Add chains or small brackets inside to prevent the doors from swinging open too far.
Step 4: Mount the Dartboard and Accessories
- Center the dartboard inside the cabinet and mark the mounting hole location.
- Drill a pilot hole and attach the dartboard bracket securely.
- Test-fit the dartboard to ensure it hangs correctly.
- If desired, add small racks or hooks inside the doors for dart storage.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
- Sand the entire cabinet with 220-grit sandpaper.
- Apply your choice of wood stain or paint. Let it dry completely.
- Add a polyurethane coat for protection if using stain.
- Once dry, install the dartboard and any final accessories.
Step 6: Mount the Cabinet on the Wall
- Find a stud in your wall and mark the location.
- Drill pilot holes through the back panel and secure the cabinet with sturdy screws.
- Ensure the cabinet is level before tightening everything down.
Conclusion
Building a wooden dartboard cabinet with fold-out doors is a fun and rewarding project. It enhances your game room while keeping your dartboard safe and organized.
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