Building a wooden dartboard cabinet with scoreboard storage is a great DIY project that combines function and style. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Materials Needed:
- Wood: Plywood or hardwood (for the cabinet doors and sides)
- Dartboard mounting hardware (brackets and screws)
- Hinges (for the doors)
- Screws
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper
- Finish or paint (optional, for aesthetic purposes)
- Scoreboard material: Corkboard, chalkboard, or whiteboard (depending on your preference)
- Wood for shelf (optional): If you want extra storage for darts and accessories
- Measuring tape
- Saw (circular or table saw)
- Drill
- Screwdriver
Tools Needed:
- Saw (for cutting wood)
- Drill
- Screwdriver
- Sandpaper or sander
- Tape measure
Steps:
1. Design the Cabinet
- First, decide on the size of the cabinet. Standard dartboards are 18 inches in diameter, so you’ll want the cabinet to be at least 24” x 24” to comfortably fit the dartboard.
- Decide how you want the scoreboard to be placed. Typically, a chalkboard or whiteboard is mounted on the inside of one of the cabinet doors for easy visibility.
2. Cut the Wood Pieces
- Cabinet Back: Cut a rectangular piece of plywood (around 24” x 30” or more depending on your design).
- Side Panels: Cut two pieces for the sides, each about 24” tall and the depth you prefer (usually 4–6 inches).
- Top and Bottom Panels: Cut two pieces for the top and bottom panels, matching the width of the cabinet’s back panel and the depth of the side panels.
- Doors: Cut two pieces that will serve as the doors of the cabinet. They should be slightly smaller than the front opening, allowing enough space for the hinges. Typically, 12” x 24” is a good size.
3. Assemble the Cabinet Frame
- Attach the top, bottom, and side panels to the back panel using wood screws or wood glue.
- Ensure everything is square and level as you assemble the frame. If using screws, pre-drill holes to prevent splitting.
4. Add the Scoreboard
- If you’re using a corkboard or whiteboard for the scoreboard, cut it to fit inside one of the cabinet doors.
- Attach it to the inside of the door using wood glue or screws. If you’re using a whiteboard, you can write scores with dry-erase markers. A chalkboard can also be used if you prefer that style.
5. Attach the Hinges and Doors
- Attach the hinges to the doors and the cabinet frame. You can place the hinges along the side of the cabinet, allowing the doors to swing open.
- Check the alignment of the doors to ensure they open smoothly and are properly aligned.
6. Mount the Dartboard
- On the inside back panel of the cabinet, mark the center of where the dartboard will hang. According to regulations, the center of the dartboard should be 5 feet 8 inches from the floor.
- Install the dartboard mounting hardware, such as a bracket or a specialized dartboard hanging kit, and mount the dartboard securely.
7. Finish the Cabinet
- Sand all rough edges and surfaces, and then apply a finish or paint to the cabinet if desired. You could go for a natural wood finish, a stain, or a painted design depending on your home decor.
8. Add Storage (Optional)
- If you’d like to add a shelf for storing darts, chalk, or other accessories, cut a small piece of wood (about 2-3 inches deep) and install it along the bottom of the cabinet.
- Use screws to attach it securely.
9. Final Assembly and Setup
- After finishing and ensuring everything is secure, hang the cabinet on the wall at the proper height (typically with the dartboard center 5’ 8” from the ground).
- You’re ready to play!
By following these steps, you’ll have a functional and stylish dartboard cabinet with space for scorekeeping and storage!