Dad Builds Perfect Life-Size Connect Four, Shows Every Step Along The Way

.Step 16: Mill openings the size of the width of the checker columns into a piece of aluminum [...]

By Hunter Miller

connectfour
(Photo: Imgur / HaHaBird)

At his son's request, Reddit user HaHaBird made an awesome homemade life-size Connect Four board. He even took the time to explain the neat process (pictures included) so you too can build your own board at home.

The total project will cost around $150, if you are making your board in the same dimensions as the one from the pictures. The dimensions of the checkers should be 7 inches in diameter, with the game being 6 feet long and 5 feet tall.

Step 1: You will need two sheets of quarter inch beech plywood then you should mark the location of all 84 holes.

Step 2: Punch holes in the center of each center as you prepare to drill.

Step 3: Trim the board to the desired size.

Step 4: Drill pilot holes in board.

Step 5: Cut holes with 6-inch saw

Step 6: In order to keep columns secure, glue down guides made of 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch pieces of wood to the board.

Step 7: Route the channels down the middle with two 1x3 pieces of wood.

Step 8: Stain the frame of the board for a polished look.

Step 9: Glue channel to the frame.

Step 10: Clamp frame to the face.

Step 11: Paint your 7 inch cork trivets to make your checkers.

Step 12: Route the 1x2 to make the top of the frame.

Step 13: Cut a bevel in the top frame piece using a bandsaw so that the checkers can slide into place.

Step 14: Mark the channel guides on another 1x3 piece of wood.

Step 15: Glue down supports with a 1 inch margin left at the top (this is meant to be a guide for sliding piece).

Step 16: Mill openings the size of the width of the checker columns into a piece of aluminum channel.

Step 17: Mill slot for the release handle.

Step 18: The completed release should be an aluminum channel that fits in the wooden track, and a piece of 1/4 inch threaded rod to go through the handle.

Step 19: Put a space and threaded ball knob onto the rod.

Now you're good to go!

Check out the gallery to see the photos of the step by step process showing exactly how this awesome dad created the life size Connect Four game. Or go to Mashable to see more info on the project.

[H/T Mashable]

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