by Callista Meyer

Created on: November 11, 2010

Ah, that good ol' hockey game that so many youth are starting to play in their own backyards. It's easy enough to purchase a net or make one but what do you do when that puck flies so hard to dismantles your net!?! A disaster at it's greatest, a sheer heartbreaker for your young one.

First of all, yes you can make your own hockey nets without having to purchase one!  First..gather your supplies...all you will need is PVC  or metal piping or wood, strong glue, netting and the determination to complete the project.

Regular ice hockey nets are between 4 and 6 feet wide. However if you are making this for your own usage feel free to make your base the size you desire. Cut your choice of material for your base (PVC, metal or wood) into the desired lengths. You will need 2 for the length, 2 for the height and 2 more for the back. Once this step is completed you can move on to laying your pieces out in the shape of a net. At each connecting point you should place an elbow joint to help with connecting your support system. Glue all of your pieces together and then attach your netting using black tape or even twist ties!

Now, comes the repairing business. First off, head out to your local hardware store  (or use any leftover netting) and find some twine in the same color as your net OR for an even more creative route purchase a different color or even a shoelace will work for a temporary fix. It should be simple enough to retie your twine into the area your hole was made.

Unfortunatly at times, it may be the PVC creating the base of your net that is harmed during play. Have no fear! This is just as simple to fix as the net!  Rare, but if it occurs it is just as simple to cut a new piece of PVC piping and fit it into the broken area. For future reference keep in mind PVC  piping is not as strong as using metal or wood for a frame. If your net is a full 6' long than you will also need to assure you have included a support beam in the middle to ensure your net's sturdiness when those pucks come flying in. Once all of your repairing is completed get right back into the game!

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