Plinko DIY

Build Your Own Plinko Board

Create the classic carnival game with our step-by-step guide. Perfect for parties, school fairs, or family game nights!

Start Building Materials List

Step-by-Step Build Guide

  1. Layout grid & router top

    Layout grid and router top

    Mark the 24 × 48 in. sheet every 2 ¾ in., then round-over or jigsaw the header shape.

  2. Drill holes for dowels

    Drilling dowel holes

    Use a ⅜ in. bit with a ½ in. stop collar to keep depth consistent.

  3. Drill pocket holes

    Pocket holes on rear

    Pocket-holes on the back secure the frame with no visible fasteners.

  4. Attach sides & bottom

    Attaching frame

    Glue and 1 ¼ in. screws hold two 1×6 sides and the tray bottom flush.

  5. Install point dividers

    Dividers

    Cut 4 ¾ × 2 ⅛ in. blocks with a 45° to funnel the pucks.

  6. Add plexiglass front

    Plexiglass install

    Predrill ⅜ in. holes and fasten with #8 × ¾ in. brass screws + finish washers.

  7. Tap in dowel pins

    Dowels

    Cut 54 × 2 ½ in. dowels, glue the first ½ in. and seat them flush.

Materials & Tools

Materials

  • 1/2" plywood (24" x 48")
  • 1×6 pine boards (8 ft length)
  • 3/8" hardwood dowels
  • Plexiglass sheet (24" x 36")
  • Wood glue
  • Brass screws (#8 × 3/4")
  • Finish washers
  • Wood stain & paint

Tools

  • Drill with bits
  • Pocket hole jig
  • Jigsaw or router
  • Clamps
  • Tape measure
  • Square
  • Sanding block
  • Paint brushes

Optional

  • Kreg pocket-hole system
  • Drill press
  • Biscuit joiner
  • Spray gun for finish
  • Laser level
  • Wood burning kit

Why Build a Plinko Board?

🎯

Endless Fun

Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or school events. Everyone loves the suspense of the bouncing puck!

💰

Fundraising

Great for charity events and school fundraisers. Easy to set up prizes for different point values.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Family Project

Build it together as a family activity. Kids can help with painting and decorating their own game.

What Builders Say

★★★★★

"Super clear plans—our kids can't stop playing! We've used it at three birthday parties already."

— Emily W., Parent
★★★★☆

"Did it in a weekend with basic tools. Love how the point dividers work—makes scoring easy."

— Javier R., DIY Enthusiast
★★★★★

"Took it to the school fair and raised $260 for charity. Planning to build a second one for our classroom!"

— Courtney P., Teacher