Making a wooden dartboard cabinet with a scoreboard can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you build one:
Materials:
Wood for the Cabinet:
- 3/4″ plywood or hardwood (oak, maple, or pine work well)
- 2 sheets for the sides, top, bottom, and back of the cabinet
For the Doors:
- 1/2″ plywood or hardwood (two pieces)
- Optional: Wood trim or molding for a more decorative finish
For the Scoreboard:
- 1/4″ plywood or MDF board
- Chalkboard paint or dry erase board material (for writing scores)
Other Materials:
- Hinges (for the doors)
- Magnetic latches or cabinet latches
- Screws and wood glue
- Sandpaper (for smooth finishes)
- Wood stain or paint (for finishing)
- Dart holders (optional)
Tools:
- Circular saw or table saw
- Drill
- Jigsaw (if cutting out a shape for the scoreboard area)
- Sanding block or electric sander
- Paintbrush or rags (for staining or finishing)
Steps to Build the Cabinet:
1. Measure & Plan
- Standard dartboard size: 18” (diameter), so make the inside of the cabinet about 24” x 24” to allow some space for ease of use.
- The height of the cabinet should be at least 30” tall (or more, depending on your preference), with about 6” to 8” of space above the dartboard for the scoreboard.
2. Cut the Pieces
- Back Panel: Cut a piece of plywood to 24” x 30” (or your desired dimensions).
- Side Panels: Cut two pieces of plywood to 24” x 6” for the sides.
- Top and Bottom Panels: Cut two pieces of plywood to 24” x 6” for the top and bottom of the cabinet.
- Doors: Cut two pieces for the doors; these should be around 12” x 24” each, but adjust to fit your design.
- Scoreboard Panel: Cut a piece of plywood or MDF for the scoreboard. This will usually be 12” x 18” (adjust depending on your desired design).
3. Assemble the Box
- Attach the top, bottom, and side panels to the back panel. Use wood glue and screws for strong joints.
- Make sure to leave space in the middle for where the dartboard will hang.
4. Create the Door Openings
- On the front panel, cut out the area where the doors will attach. Make sure the doors fit snugly within the frame.
- Attach the hinges to the doors and the cabinet frame.
- Optionally, add a latch or magnetic catch to keep the doors closed.
5. Build the Scoreboard
- Attach a smaller piece of plywood or MDF inside the cabinet where the scoreboard will go.
- If using chalkboard paint, apply it to the scoreboard area. You can also use dry erase material for a more modern look.
- Alternatively, you could create a framed scoreboard with a wood frame and paint it with numbers and lines for scoring.
6. Install Dartboard
- Mount a dartboard bracket inside the cabinet (most dartboards come with one), ensuring it’s at the correct height. A standard height for the center of the bullseye is 5’ 8” from the floor.
- Attach the dartboard securely to the bracket.
7. Finishing Touches
- Sand all the surfaces to smooth out any rough edges.
- Apply a wood stain or paint your cabinet to your desired color.
- Add any decorative touches, like trim or molding, around the doors or edges of the cabinet for a polished look.
8. Optional Features
- Dart Holders: You can add small wooden brackets or holders inside the door to store darts.
- Scoring Tools: Consider adding a built-in pen holder or a chalk holder on the cabinet for convenience.
9. Mount the Cabinet
- Install the cabinet on a wall, making sure it’s secure and level.
- You may want to use heavy-duty wall anchors depending on the weight of the cabinet.
Final Thoughts:
Once everything is assembled, you’ll have a sturdy, functional dartboard cabinet with a scoreboard! The design can be customized to fit your space, style, and needs. Enjoy your new setup!