So what does cleaning a bristle dart board have to do with setting up a board? We have one in the dining room. Why? Well it is a family game we enjoy, and my husband and I are on a dart league. The how to's of set up are simple.

First you need to decide what type of board you want. There are many kinds, from inexpensive plastic boards, to those with elegant wood cabinets. A visit to your local full line gaming store is required.

Plastic darts are more popular than steel darts and much safer with the family. The plastic boards are lighter than the old horse hair steel boards. The majority of players we know use plastic darts.

Once the board has been chosen, decide what room and what wall accommodates it the best. You really don't need much space other than the straight line throwing area. Our computer is on the adjacent side in the dining room (so we can monitor the children!) and we manage just fine.

With plastic darts, marks will be made on the wall. Most of them are easily wiped off, but a back board can be added, painted or stained to match. Remember to take this additions width/depth into conderation when proceeding.

The board needs to be hung in an area where the player can line up and get ready to throw. This space is known as the "player's box" and needs to be open and free so a player, even with a wheel chair or walker can adjust and get themselves "set". A table or shelve for dart supplies, drinks, snacks, etc. can be set up close by.

Boards are hung at 5'8 (68") from the floor at the center of the bulls' eye. The toe line or foul line measurement is from the face of the board 8ft. (96") not from the boards' cabinet. Most boards include directions. Some boards come with a foul line marker for the floor or you can use a piece of sturdy clear tape. We have hardwood floors and the tape is hardly noticeable.

Electronic boards keep score, and some cabinet ones include a chalk board so a scoring board is not required but can be hung next to the board. As with any home sport area, there are supplies that need to be stored. Darts are small so a basket or a spare drawer can hold the needed supplies.

It is always nice to have extra tips on hand for your guests. Spare sets of darts for those who don't carry their darts with them will make you the host with the most! Have a set of rules available just in case.

Dart boards are easy to set up and the game can be enjoyed and played by just about anyone. Children can move the foul line up and the plastic darts are safe with adult supervision. It promotes good sportsmanship and healthy competition Remember darts start and end with a handshake!

Learn more about this author, Gayle Jackson.
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