How to Build a Pipe Ball Lawn Game

Pipe ball is a lawn game that’s a cross between skeeball and basketball. Players attempt to toss a tennis ball into pipes with angled ends and varying heights—a game of skill that demands nothing less than a perfect throw. Catch the unforgiving angled rim of one of the pipes, and you’re off to the bushes to find where the ball bounced.

Building your own pipe ball set is a straightforward and inexpensive DIY project. Follow the images and instructions below to learn how.

Materials for a Pipe Ball Lawn Game

• 4-inch drainpipe (one 10-foot length per rack)
• 1×5 (get 6 feet)
• Stick-on numbers
• Plastic ties in 11-inch lengths
• Tennis balls (get two packs of three in different colors)
• Spray paint

Tools You’ll Need to make a Pipe Ball Lawn Game

Regular DIYers likely have all the required tools in their garages already.

Cut List for a Pipe Ball Lawn Game

All dimensions are measured to the longest point of the tip angle

• Drainpipe: Four at 14 inches
• Drainpipe: Three at 11½ inches
• Drainpipe: Two at 9 inches
• Drainpipe: One at 7 inches
• 1×5 jig base: One at 24 inches
• 1×6 jig wall: Two at 24 inches, beveled 30 degrees at one end

Steps for Making a DIY Pipe Ball Lawn Game

Creating your own pipe ball lawn game requires minimal tools and materials and can be accomplished in an afternoon.

Step 1: Cut the Jig

Before cutting the drainpipe, you’ll need to create a jig to help you make angled cuts.

• Cut the jig walls and base according to the measurements provided in the cut list.
• Set a circular saw to a 30-degree angle. Guided by a straightedge, bevel one end of each jig wall.

Step 2: Build the Jig

Lay the base flat and position the walls on either side (with their bevels parallel), and use a straightedge to ensure the bevels are perfectly aligned.

At the non-beveled end, mark each wall flush with the base and trim to length. Secure the pieces together by screwing through the sides and into the edges of the base. Test fit a pipe to ensure the jig holds it securely without shifting.

Step 3: Cut the Angles on the Pipes

Position the pull saw blade on the pipe, using the jig bevels as a guide. Carefully cut through the pipe, maintaining contact between the blade and the bevels throughout the entire cut. Verify angles with a protractor for added accuracy.

Step 4: Mark a Straight Cut on the Pipes

Measure and mark the pipes according to the cut list. Remember to measure from the peak of the angle. Use the opposite side of the jig to guide your straight cuts. Repeat steps 3 and 4 until all pipes are cut to the specified lengths in the cut list.

Step 5: Drill Holes in the Pipes

Arrange the pipes into a triangular shape on their angled ends, with the tallest row of four in the back and the shortest pipe in front.

Mark where each pipe touches the adjoining pipes on the bottom (straight-cut) edge. Remove each pipe from the grouping and transfer vertical lines onto the side from the bottom marks. Drill a ¼-inch hole at ½ inch and 4 inches from the bottom on each line.

Step 6: Paint the Pipes

Choose a variety of spray paint colors to create an eye-catching design. Apply paint to the exterior of each pipe using long, even strokes for a smooth finish. Consider using a primer coat if the pipes are particularly glossy or dark.

Step 7: Attach the Numbers

Apply number stickers to the inside of each pipe just below the peak. Use the following point system: 1, 2, 3, and 5, going from the back row to the single pipe in front.

Ensure the numbers are clearly visible and securely attached. Optionally, seal the number stickers with a clear coat to protect them from wear.

Step 8: Attach the Pipes

The final step involves connecting all the pipes to form the complete game structure:

• Position all pipes upside down on their angled ends.
• Loop a plastic tie from the deeper 4-inch hole through the shallow ½-inch hole.
• Secure each tie and trim any excess length.
• Repeat this process until all pipes are firmly attached.
• Give the entire structure a gentle shake to ensure all connections are secure.

Pipe Ball Rules

Now that you’ve built your pipe ball lawn game, it’s time to learn how to play. Here are the basic rules and gameplay instructions:

• Set up the pipe structure 10 to 20 feet away from the throwing line.
• Players take turns throwing tennis balls at the pipes, aiming to get them to fall into the openings.
• Points are awarded based on which pipe the ball enters, as indicated by the number stickers. If there are two balls in the same pipe at the end of the round, only the top ball scores.
• The first player or team to reach a predetermined score (usually 21 points) wins the game.