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        How to Build a Bocce Ball Court

        Building a bocce ball court is a great way to use unused space.

        More in Outdoors

        Step 1: Clear the Area

        Using a sod cutter, cut away all the sod. Using a pick and a flat shovel also works but it just takes much longer.

        Step 2: Level the Area

        You don't want the bocce balls gathering in the same corner every game. Using a laser level or large level, check to make sure the area is flat. Rake the dirt to lower areas or away from higher areas.

        Step 3: Measure and Mark the Area

        Use spray paint or chalk to mark the four corners of the court. For this project, the frame was 34 feet by 6 feet. A backyard bocce court can be any size you'd like, but regulation-size bocce ball courts are about 13 feet by 91 feet.

        Step 4: Cut the Wood for the Frame

        Using a circular saw or table saw, cut 2x6s to the desired frame size. Because synthetic wood material bends, consider doubling up the sides for a stronger bocce ball court.

        Step 5: Secure the Frame

        Using the wood screws, join the 2x6s. Then drive in 1' stakes every four to six feet to support synthetic material and to keep the frame straight and sturdy.

        Step 6: Lay Down the Base Rock

        The base rock needs to be about two to three inches deep. Load in the base rock into the court area and then tamp it down using a compactor.

        Step 7: Lay Down the Decomposed Granite

        The next layer of the bocce court is decomposed granite. Compact the area. The small rock particles lock into place once compacted, creating a strong surface for walking and bocce balls.

        Step 8: Recheck the Level

        If any areas are too low, add more decomposed granite to raise the area. If areas are too high, rake away the excess decomposed granite.

        Step 9: Apply the Oyster Shell Flour

        Local feed supply stores sell oyster-shell flour. Apply a thick coat (about one half of an inch of oyster-shell flour), then rake it until it's smooth. This material is known to increase the speed of bocce balls. Keep an extra bag on hand for maintaining the court.

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