How to Build a Shuffleboard Table: DIY Plans

You don’t have to possess prior construction experience to build a shuffleboard table.

Nor do you need tons of tools, materials, or woodwork knowledge.

All you need is interest, and we will take you through the rest of the process.

So brace yourself for an information-filled learning session throughout this article.

Get your pen and paper ready, because nothing is stopping you after this!

Things You’ll Need to build a shuffleboard table?

Before you make a shuffleboard table, you will need a number of materials. Most of them are readily available at your local woodworking shop. 

Mainly, you will need the following equipment to make your shuffleboard table at home:

  • bolts
  • sandpaper
  • surface planer
  • leveler
  • carpenter square
  • jigsaw
  • clamps
  • table saw
  • drill bit
  • router
  • random orbital sander
  • biscuit joiner
  • miter saw
  • saw horses if possible

You will also need wood (Oak, Maple, Plywood, Bamboo, Mahogany) depending on preference and budget.

Remember, the type of supplies you get determines the quality of the shuffleboard table you build.

So if you’re on a tight budget, consider using MDF.  However, ensure you reinforce the playing surface well to avoid unsealing.

On the other hand, if you have enough cash to spend and would like to make a professional-like table, go for solid wood.

Good building materials should be long-lasting and able to offer stability.

DIY Shuffleboard Table Plans: Dimensions and Specifications

As mentioned earlier, putting up a DIY shuffleboard table requires interest. But to it, you must add accuracy.

Attention to details will get you the kind of table you need to enjoy playtime games with your loved ones.

Shuffleboard Dimensions and Specifications
Measured Item Box/Cradle Playing Surface Puck
Measurement Length Width Height Length Width Height Diameter
9 Foot 9′ 31″ 31″ 8′ 16″ 30″ 2 1/4
12 Foot 12′ 31″ 31″ 10 1/2′- 11′ – 16″ 30″ 2 1/4
14 Foot 14′ 31″ 31″ 12.8′-13′ 20″ 30″ 2 5/16
16 Foot 16′ 31″ 31″ 14.8′-15′ 20″ 30″ 2 5/16
18 Foot 18′ 31″ 31″ 16.7′-17′ 20″ 30″ 2 5/16
20 Foot 20′ 31″ 31″ 18.7′-19′ 20″ 30″ 2 5/16
22 Foot 22′ 31″ 31″ 20.5′-21′ 20″ 30″ 2 5/16
Source: https://www.shuffleboard.net/

Below, we share a 17 ft. table plan with all the necessary dimension details to help you learn.

Note: The official lengths of shuffleboard tables range from 9 feet to 22 ft.

Overhead view of the playing surface

Shuffleboard Playing Surface Measurements
Source: shuffleboard.net

Making the Table: Step by Step Instructions

The main areas of shuffleboard tables are the table itself and the playing surface.

The primary function of the table is to hold everything together, offer support, and catch the pucks. So ensure you use quality materials on it.  

However, more consideration should be on the materials used on the playing surface as it has to be flat, evenly made, and smooth.

That said, let’s get straight into the step-by-step process of making shuffleboard tables.

Decide the Size of the Shuffleboard Table You want to build

Since we all have different needs, we encourage you to first determine the size of the table you want. It should be between 9 feet and 22 feet 

To help you make the right decision as you build your own table, first identify the space in which you’ll be making and storing it.

And the measurements of the table should be at least 4 ft. less than the space measurements. There should be sufficient room for working. 

Once you’re sure about the size, you can now get the right dimensions for each part.

Get Materials for the Surface Area

The materials you get depend on your budget. For instance, maple and oak are expensive but durable. So they’ll save money in the long run. 

You can also use bamboo or plywood for surface flooring at affordable rates.

For a classic built shuffleboard look, spice up with mahogany on the trims. You will enjoy the game better when playing on an attractive surface. 

Building Legs and the Box

Cut sturdy boards for the sides. Use solid wood if possible.

To ensure the cut is perpendicular to your position, let the board rest on top of the saw horse. It’s best if you can clap a straight board as your guide, then begin cutting.

Now line up the board pieces alongside each edge to form a box frame. Now drill them and then fasten with screws.

Since you’re making a long shuffleboard table, ensure you support it at the sides with extra boards.

This helps keep the wood straight.

Now strategically position boards perpendicularly to the length of the box, keeping them 1 foot apart.

Ensure they face the underside of the box before securing their sides with screws.

Get already measured plywood sheets and place them into the box, then fasten them with mending plates.

Drill and use enough screws on some supports.

It’s advisable to set a carpet inside the box to help soften and catch the pucks during gaming. Consider buying one, instead of using an old rag. 

Cut the carpet into sizes to fit the inside and the sides, then staple them into the wood using a staple gun. 

Now make cuts on the legs, ensuring the upper playing surface remains at a height of  3 feet from the ground.

Since the legs will be supporting the entire table, adjust them properly for sufficient room before cutting.

Use adjusters, and feet levelers to achieve ideal height and stability.

Remember, the longer the table, the more legs you’ll need for support. You need to play on a stable surface with a smooth finish. 

Before screwing the legs into the bottom area of the box, attach them to different common length boards to enhance the shuffleboard stability.

Simply drill and screw the boards into the legs. Next, drill and screw the boards into the underside of the box.

Check out the video below:

Building the Surface

Have a support structure ready for the playing surface.  Get nuts, rails, or bolts to help you hold it up.

Make drills from top to bottom of each box end, and let it cut through the carpet. Proceed to screw a bolt from the underside, such that it shows through the box.

Next, secure a rail on top of the screw.

The surface should be smooth and level. Sand any uneven area.

Use a biscuit joiner/wood glue to join wood sheets to one another.

To prevent the joined parts from detaching, reinforce them by screwing a board on their undersides.

Use a stain or paint to paint the playing surface, depending on the type of wood you used. For instance, MDF goes well with paint and solid maple with stain.

Check if the paint on the surface is dry. Then draw your shuffleboard with a drawing/ painting pen. You can use lines or circles for the scoring. Or both!

It’s advisable to seal the playing surface with polyurethane to protect it. The most durable polyurethane is oil-based.

Now lay the shuffleboard playing surface in the box, particularly on the rail. Screw it in with nuts/bolts for extra support.

To ensure the game table pucks easily slide on the playing surface, use furniture polish to wax, then spray with silicone for longevity.

Overall, your table is now ready for its first shuffleboard game! 

FAQs on DIY Building a Shuffleboard Table

What kind of wood do you use for a shuffleboard table?

There are many types of wood you can use, depending on your budget. The most popular choices include maple, oak, bamboo, mahogany, and plywood.

For a durable hardwood table shuffleboard, you could use oak or soft maple.  

How much does it cost to make a shuffleboard table?

Prepare to spend around $500-$1300 depending on the size of the table, and type of wood.

How long does it take to make your own shuffleboard table?

This isn’t a one-day project. 7 days should be enough if you’re consistent. It might take a little bit longer if you don’t have much spare time.