How To Build a Cribbage Board

  1. Choose a cribbage board pattern
  2. Buy the PDF
  3. Make your board big enough to fit your pattern. I usually add at least an extra inch on each side of the pattern. Follow these steps.
  4. Print the pattern
  5. Tape pattern together with scotch tape if more than 1 page (I tape front and back)
  6. For a regular flat track
    1. Tape all edges of the pattern to the board
    2. Drill all the holes (I drill about 1/2" deep with a 3/4" thick board)
  7. For a sunken track
    1. Use spray glue or contact cement and glue pattern to board
    2. Drill all the holes (I drill about 1/2" deep with a 3/4" thick board)
    3. Use a router and route out the inside of track, do 3 - 4 shallow passes instead of 1 deep pass. (I go about 1/4" deep in total)
  8. For a raised track
    1. Use spray glue or contact cement and glue pattern to board
    2. Drill all the holes (I drill about 1/2" deep with a 3/4" thick board)
    3. Use a router and route around the outside of the track, I do 2 - 3 shallow passes instead of 1 deep pass. (I go about 1/4" deep in total)
  9. Remove pattern, if you glued the pattern you might need to scrape it off. I use a metal putty knife.
  10. Sand the board
  11. If desired, add a decorative trim around the edge of the board, this will help prevent the board from warping over time.
  12. Put a stain or varnish or some kind of finish on the board.
  13. Play some Cribbage