How to DIY Your Very Own (+ Very Portable) Cornhole Game!

graduation parties

Re:Make Austin, we knew we had to come up with a simpler way to get this game into your own backyard. And we did. And we played it. And it was great. So let’s make it!

Cornhole Board

Materials:

– large pieces of cardboard

– two 24 in x 36 in canvases

– four 8 in blocks of wood

– paint

– nails

– spray paint

– Mod Podge

Tools:
– box cutter

– hammer

– pencil

– painter’s tape

– plate

– yard stick

– paint brush

– gloves for spray painting

Instructions

1. Draw a square in the center of the canvas about 4 inches from the sides and 8 inches from the top. Place your plate inside the square and trace it. Cut out the circle with a box cutter to create the hole.

2. Cut cardboard pieces to the same size as the canvas and slide it in place between the canvas and the canvas frame. If the cardboard covers the hole, use the box cutter to cut away the excess cardboard.

3. Measure and mark the center of your canvas. Then, create a diagonal line with the painter’s tape that reaches from the bottom corner to the center mark. Do this on both sides of the canvas to create a triangle.

4. Spray paint your canvas. You can use one or two colors for your design. Let dry and then remove the tape. You can also spray paint the wood legs of your board.

5. Apply a thick layer of Mod Podge onto the canvas and let dry.

6. Using a hammer, nail in the wooden legs into the top corners of the canvas. Each leg should get two nails.

7. Repeat to make two boards.

First we make, then we play.

Cornhole is great, but the boards are too freakin’ heavy! All of that plywood and 2x4s really rack up the weight. Step one of this cornhole hack is to use an art canvas from your local craft store as the cornhole board. It cuts the weight in half! Part two of the hack is to use a plate to trace The Hole. To do that, measure the canvas and create a square in the center, 4 inches from the sides and 8 inches from the top. By making a square, you will be able to lay the plate in the center without having to line up center points. You’re welcome ;)

Since canvas isn’t as strong as wood, use a cardboard backing to make it more durable. The cardboard will be able to slide in-between the canvas and stretcher strips.

Time to paint! We chose to do geometric racing stripes. Find the center of your canvas and place tape from the center mark to the bottom corner. Repeat on both sides.

We used two different colors of spray paint for a fun race car effect. Wait for it to dry, then peel off the tape.

To get a smooth finish, cover the canvas with a thick layer of Mod Podge. This will make the bean bags slide easier and amp up the competitive aspect of the game :)

You’re almost ready to play! Use two nails to secure the board into the wooden block legs.

Let’s get ready to play! Wait — bean bags! We need to make bean bags.

Materials:
– two colors of canvas fabric

– rice or beans

– thread

Tools:

– sewing machine

– scissors

Instructions:

1. Fold fabric in half and measure and cut out four 6 in x 6 in squares in each color fabric.

2. Sew three sides of the squares together.

3. Turn your bag inside out and fill with rice.

4. Sew up the last side and get ready for a game of Toss!

These rice/bean bags are so simple — a project anyone who passed Sewing 101 could easily complete.

Bean Bags

Cut four 6 inch squares out of two different colors of fabrics. Easy.

Sew three and a half sides, flip the bag inside out and fill with rice. Don’t fill it to the brim — leave a good inch of space or your bean bags will turn into bean bricks :( Sew up that last side.

Ta-dah! Four red and four yellow bean bags. Let’s play — for real this time!

When choosing colors, find ones that really pop against each other. That way, each team can easily see how many points they’re racking up.

Let’s get these boards on the lawn!

Toss away! Remember: The first team to 21 points (without going over) wins!

If you get the bean bag on the board you score one point; through the hole is three points.

If both teams land their bags on the surface of the board, the points cancel each other out. For example this board would total zero points because there are two red bags AND two yellow bags. Womp Womp.

But we couldn’t end on a sour note. Victory!

College and high school graduations are just around the corner, and you may be wondering what to get your favorite Gen Z grads. Luckily for you, we compiled a list of 15 fabulous graduation gifts for every price range that are guaranteed to put a smile on your graduate’s face!

Set of 4 Meal Prep Containers

Who doesn’t love pretty Tupperware? Whether your 2024 grad is a gym rat or a library lover, they will definitely find a good use for these air-tight, leak-proof containers.

Benevolence LA New Beginnings Scented Soy Candle

Send them off with this sweet-scented candle that celebrates their achievements, as well as the next steps ahead of them!

A Hundred Other Girlsby Iman Hariri-Kia

This book is like a modern day Devil Wears Prada, and would make the perfect gift for any grad going into journalism, media, or PR — especially if they’re moving to a big city.

Stanley Quencher H2.0

Hydration is key for anyone, especially a new college student that's running between classes, club meetings, and friend hangs! This tumbler will also keep their liquids cold overnight so they don't have to go down the dorm hall in the middle of the night for a fresh refill.

Dagne Dover Mila Repreve® Recycled Polyester Large Toiletry Organizer Bag

If you're sending off a high school grad to communal dorms, they'll definitely benefit from having a compact toiletry bag like this one. This style is particularly nice since it's made from recycled polyester that resists water and debris.

2024 Daily Planner

Using a planner is such an underrated way to stay organized, whether it's prepping for college coursework or adulting stuff like work events, grocery shopping, and plans with friends. This all-in-one daily planner will help your grad keep their ducks in a row with fields for all of life's details.

Honeywell Mini Cool Mist Humidifier

This humidifier, made especially for small rooms and personal spaces (ahem, dorm rooms!) helps maintain humidity levels between 40-60%, which can help relieve congestion and keep the throat and nasal passages hydrated to prevent sickness. This is crucial for soon-to-be college students who may hang around a lot of different people.​

Fresh Sends Flower Bouquet

Flowers are a staple for any major life event, especially a graduation! Fresh Sends is perfect for sending beautiful bouquets for those who live far away, since they ship directly to the recipient's door.

The Beast Mini Blender

This super-effective, high-power portable blender is the perfect size for a dorm room or small apartment, plus it's very aesthetically-pleasing even if it's just sitting on the shelf. It comes equipped with a screw-on lid and straw, too, so your grad can take it on walks and in the car.

Béis The Sport Backpack

Perfect for grads on the go, this bag can hold their water bottle, phone, wallet and so much more when they're trekking across campus.

Loop Quiet Equinox Earplugs

These design-forward earplugs are multipurpose – they block out extra noise for study sessions and sleep time, or even loud parties and concerts! Your grad will appreciate that they come with an easy-to-carry case for keeping them on-hand in unforeseen, noisy situations.

Crush Your Goals Inner Truth Affirmations Deck

For an extra dose of motivation, this 40-count deck of cards will keep them going when times get tough!

Keurig K-Mini Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker

Coffee will ​always ​be a part of any new grad's life. Keep 'em caffeinated with this convenient coffee maker that's compatible with K-Cups for everyday ease.

Hoka Clifton 9 Sneakers

Hokas are undoubtedly the cool girl of running shoes, and they will definitely make your grad hit the pavement smiling, no matter if they're stepping foot on their college campus for the first time or making big moves in a new city.

Great Jones The Starting Lineup

This trio of cookware is such a stylish way to give your recipient's post-grad kitchen an upgrade. All three pieces are oven-safe and dishwasher-friendly to make cleanup a breeze.

Find all of the greatest gifts with Brit + Co!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

Adam Brody and Leighton Meester (who, you know, played The OC's Seth Cohen and Gossip Girl's Blair Waldorf) made our teen drama dreams come true when they tied the knot in 2014. And after The Oranges and Adam's appearance on Single Parents, we're FINALLY seeing them onscreen together again in 2025. Leighton's new series Good Cop/Bad Cop premieres on the CW this winter and I can already tell it's going to be one of my favorite new TV shows of 2025.

Here's everything you need to know about Leighton Meester's Good Cop/Bad Cop — and Adam Brody's appearance!

What is Good Cop/Bad Cop about?

In the CW's newest series, Leighton Meester stars as detective Lou, working for her dad in their community's local police force. She's thrilled to finally get a partner — until she realizes it's her little brother Henry (Luke Cook). It looks like it's all in the family with this comedy drama.

When does Good Cop/Bad Cop come out?

The Good Cop/Bad Cop release date is coming up! The new series premieres at 9 PM EST on the CW starting February 19, 2025, and each episode will be one hour long.

Who else in the Good Cop/Bad Cop cast?

Good Cop/Bad Cop stars Leighton Meester, Luke Cook, and Clancy Brown. And in addition to a variety of additional actors, we'll be seeing Adam Brody make an appearance too! In the new trailer, we get a brief glimpse of his character during one of Lou and Henry's investigations — and it looks like he's playing a glasses-wearing cowboy. Yeehaw!

Are you excited to see Leighton Meester and Adam Brody onscreen again? I think they're both hilarious and can't wait to see their banter. Keep your eyes peeled for the latest Good Cop/Bad Cop news and read up on the other February TV shows premiering in 2025.

As the seasons shift and a long-awaited spring finally arrives, a few things are inevitable: the ground is thawing, the birds are chirping, and graduation ceremonies are right around the corner. In traditional practice, whether your graduation is from high school, college, or beyond, a white graduation dress perfectly complements all your robes and cords.

Instead of letting this unspoken dress code inhibit your sense of style and self-expression, lean into it! When you look good, you feel good — let this mantra ring true on your celebratory day with these white graduation dresses. You’ll find a range of styles, prices, lengths, and more to help you find your perfect match.

Image via Lulus

Lulus Cause to Celebrate Midi Dress ($79)

Hell-bent on avoiding an all-white ensemble? Then this beautiful, chiffon midi dress from Lulus is what you need for your big day. Artfully covered in subtle, gold dots, this dress is truly a ‘cause to celebrate!’

Image via Anthropologie

Anthropologie Mare Mare Romper ($168)

Giving the illusion of a dress, this adorable romper is complete with shorts underneath hidden by side panels for both coverage and comfort.

Image via Anthropologie

Endless Rose Crochet Lace Dress ($130)

Yes way, appliqué. The flower overlay is a sweet nod to femininity and the interesting crochet texture that covers this mini dress is sure to make you stand out among others.

​Image via Free People

Free People Feeling Bonita Dress ($108)

Effortlessly chic, this cap sleeve midi dress will photograph like a dream in any and all graduation pics. Plus, it’s the perfect addition to pack for all your post-grad travels this summer! Win-win!

Photo via Anthropologie

Tommie Cap-Sleeve Dress ($170)

This simple midi dress if perfect for a graduation, and it even offers plenty of extensive sizing! We also love the cap-sleeve moment for a classy look.

Image via Lulus

Lulus Devoted Lover Midi Dress ($68)

Business in the front, party in the back; this bodycon dress features a high neckline that exudes a professional feel while the low back with a twist detail brings a playful aspect.

Image via Reformation

Reformation Catarina Dress ($218)

Short and sweet - enough said.

Image via Revolve

Amanda Uprichard Evaline Dress ($198)

Amanda Uprichard hit the nail on the head with this beautiful, sleek short-sleeved dress that will leave you wondering how you ever survived without it.

Photo via Free People

Free People Ultraviolet Dress ($148)

If typical dresses aren’t your style, not to worry, Free People has you covered. This polka dot midi dress is sophisticated yet fun with a flair; perfect for saying your farewells to any classmates you may have been crushing on ;).

Photo via Nordstrom

Nordstrom ASTR Off the Shoulder Dress ($90)

Hill House is known for their nap dresses, and for good reason. Constructed from 100% silk, this sleeveless dress lets you wear it, instead of the other way around.

Photo via Nordstrom

Petal and Pup Luelle Dress ($79)

Graduation aside, you need this dress in your closet. Featuring satin material for easy movement, this midi dress is a staple piece that will last through the years.

Photo via Nordstrom

House of CB Tallulah Dress ($209)

This elegant smock dress is comfortable enough for all-day wear, yet has a timeless feel that elevates the look of anyone who puts it on.

Photo via Eloquii

Eloquii Strong Shoulder Dress ($65)

Eloquii’s mission to provide extended sizes in a fashionable manner is evident in this curve-hugging midi dress complete with the fun shoulder detailing.

Reformation Moya Two Piece Set ($248)

This flirty, flouncy two piece set is perfect if you’d prefer to show less skin, and it’s super popular right now - so grab it while you can!!

Image via Showpo

Showpo Vashti Mini Dress ($70)

Showpo’s puff sleeve dress is so cute, you’ll have a hard time not buying it in every color after graduation.

Photo via Eloquii

Eloquii Lace Tiered Dress ($189)

This stunning lace-detailed dress is available in extensive sizes and is sure to be a show-stopper underneath a graduation gown.

Photo via Nordstrom

Nordstrom BP Mini Dress ($49)

A fold-over neckline and slit make this a cute and fun take on a white graduation dress. We think that's it's the perfect mix of classy and cute put together!

Image via Lisa Says Gah

Lisa Says Gah Alex Shirtdress ($148)

Lean into the coquette aesthetic with this lightweight, cotton mini dress, sure to fulfill your grad dress dreams and beyond.

Image via Peppermayo

Peppermayo Loren Midi Dress ($75)

Elegant and affordable, this silky midi dress has details including a ruched chest and a back tie to accentuate your curves in a subtle way.

Image via Madewell

Madewell Plus Tiered Midi Dress ($128)

A sweetheart neckline and button detail make this sleeveless dress perfect for warmer graduation ceremonies, and with size offerings up to a 28, it’s a great fit for all who are interested.

Tag us with your favorite graduation dresses on Instagram and subscribe to our email newsletter for more fashion inspiration!

Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations. This post has been updated.

As much as I've written about Reese Witherspoon's book club, you'd think I was on a first name basis with her (wishful thinking)! But, the truth is that it's the reason I rediscovered reading for fun. As informational as books can be, there's also joy, anguish, fear — and even spicy romance — to lose ourselves in. I'm become a firm believer in holding on to things that bring us joy so if your book stash is overflowing, you're going to love Reese's January pick for 2025.

Learn about Reese Witherspoon's Book Club pick for January 2025!

Amazon

The Three Lives of Cate Kay by Kate Fagan (New Release)

Cate Kay's a literary genius who's cracked the code of keeping readers engaged in her written work. She's also secured a film franchise that's made fans go wild. But, no one's ever seen Cate Kay or talked to her. She's an enigma on purpose.
You see, 'Cate Kay' and her bestie Amanda made plans to live lavish lives in California. They were so sure everything would work out until something awful happens that forces 'Cate Kay' to leave her real identity behind.

It's not until something forces her to make peace with where she comes from that 'Cate Kay' decides it's time to stop running from who she is.

Reese's Book Club

Here's What Reese Witherspoon Had To Say About The Three Lives of Cate Kay

Reese Witherspoon never shies away from telling her adoring fans why she chose a book and this month is no different. On her book club's official Instagram page, she wrote: "Have you ever felt like you were living more than one life? That’s exactly what Cate Kay is grappling with in our January pick, The Three Lives of Cate Kay by @KateFagan3. She’s a literary sensation, the face behind a blockbuster film trilogy, but her life isn’t what it seems. This story swept me away with its big dreams, love, and unexpected twists."

Visit our storefront to check out more of our top book picks!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

After spending decades in the entertainment industry, some celebs like Pamela Anderson have opted for a makeup-free look. No one can forget when she stunned photographers right before Paris Fashion Week's Vivienne Westwood show last year by rocking a bare face. She told Vogue France, she wasn't thinking about not "wearing any makeup." However, she didn't want to "compete with the clothes" she was wearing. She felt "freedom" from not trying to "be the prettiest girl in the room" which speaks volumes to us!

Now, Pamela continues to embrace the no-makeup life — and not only does she look gorgeous, but she seems SO happy! The star shared recently how this lifestyle change impacts her day-to-day, and it's honestly incredibly relatable. Here's what she had to say!

Here's what Pamela Anderson just said about adopting a no-makeup life!

www.instagram.com

1. It saves her a lot of time.

Pamela Anderson stopped by the Live with Kelly and Markshow to talk about filming The Last Showgirl, her childhood, and how not wearing makeup has been beneficial for her. While her makeup-free clip from the episode isn't available on YouTube, PEOPLE reports hosts Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos asking her how her decision has changed her life.

Ripa started with, "You don't travel with a glam squad. How liberating is that for you," while Consuelos followed with, "And how much time have you gotten back?"

The former Baywatch star said she's "saved a lot of time" and admitted that her sons "used to say that I spent half my life in a makeup chair."

www.instagram.com

2. She feels more focused in general.

Pamela Anderson also admitted things feel easier for her in general. "I feel like I could focus better when I did the film, too." And her life outside of that? She said she's "gotten out of wearing makeup and it's been fun."

It's interesting because Kelly Ripa shared she's been inspired by Pamela Anderson's makeup-free choice. She remembers not wearing makeup for a short while and said to herself, "'Pamela Anderson is a genius." Kelly even thought for a moment, "This is the way to live." We're so here for it!

www.instagram.com

3. She lives for a glam moment, but appreciates simplicity now.

Pamela's all for being makeup-free now, but she's not bashing glam moments. She actually "loved it" because "it's fun when you're new in the business and you get all this attention." She's just at a point where she's "done that" and wants to "simplify and keep it low key."

She really does "love being elegant, sophisticated" but has found what "works best" for her.

Is Pamela Anderson inspiring you to embrace a no-makeup life too? Let us know on Facebook!