Okay, folks, let’s dive into this little project I tackled – making some cushions for a volleyball net setup, using some leftover oak timber.

It all started with a problem. I put in a volleyball net in the backyard, and it’s great and The poles were digging into the grass. So, I wanted a base, something solid, to protect the lawn. I’ve got this pile of scrap wood, mostly oak, from an old project.

The Idea Forms

I figured, “Why not use that oak?” It’s tough stuff, looks decent, and hey, it’s free! The idea was simple: create some wooden “cushions” to go under the net poles, distributing the weight and saving my precious grass.

Getting Started

First, I grabbed the oak pieces. They were different sizes, so I picked out a few that were roughly the same thickness – about an inch and a half. Didn’t need to be perfect, just close enough.

Then, I measured the diameter of the net poles. Just eyeballed it, really. I wanted the wood pieces to be a bit bigger than the pole base, giving it some room to sit comfortably.

Cutting and Shaping

Next up, the saw. I used my trusty circular saw – nothing fancy – and cut the oak into squares. Again, not aiming for perfection here, just roughly square and big enough for the poles.

After cutting, I took a sander to the edges. I used 80 first, then I use * was partly to smooth things out, but also to round the corners a bit. Didn’t want any sharp edges digging into the ground or, worse, someone’s foot!

The Finishing Touches (or Lack Thereof)

Honestly, I didn’t bother with any fancy finish. It’s oak, it’s going to be outside, and it’s just a base for a volleyball net. I figured it would weather naturally and develop a bit of a rustic look. If I were feeling ambitious, I might have slapped on some outdoor sealant, but… nah.

Putting It All Together

Finally, I placed the oak “cushions” under the net poles. Simple as that! They worked perfectly, spreading the weight and keeping the poles from sinking into the lawn. The grass is happy. The family could play volleyball without damading grass.

The Result

• The volleyball net is more stable.
• My lawn is protected from those pesky pole holes.
• I used up some scrap wood that was just lying around.
• The volleyball net looks nice.

It wasn’t a glamorous project, but it was practical, cheap, and satisfying. That’s a win in my book!