How to Build a Batting Net

Batting practice is an important part of learning to play baseball. It allows the player to practice his stance, swing and positioning. It is best to practice with someone, or a pitching machine, but a stand can be used if a pitcher is not available. To stop the balls ending up on roofs, in trees or getting lost, a batting net needs to be constructed to catch the balls.

Things You'll Need

  • Wooden stakes
  • Wooden boards
  • Net
  • Nails
  • Hooks
  • Saw
  • Measuring tape
  • Tent pegs
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure out three wooden stakes between 8 and 10 feet long. The height and width of the net is only limited by the area where the net will be placed. The stakes should be 2 inches square.

    • 2

      Cut the stakes to the desired length using a saw. A hand saw can be used, but a table saw is better.

    • 3

      Measure and cut out two 1-foot-square wooden boards. The boards should be less than 1 inch thick.

    • 4

      Arrange the wooden stakes to create something resembling a soccer goal with two posts and a crossbar. The crossbar should sit on top of the posts.

    • 5

      Insert screws through the top of the crossbar and into the posts using an electric drill. Use long screws to ensure the structure is secure. Nails could also be used and inserted using a hammer.

    • 6

      Fix the wooden boards to the bottom of the posts using screws or nails. These support the posts of the net when in use.

    • 7

      Lay the structure face down and lay a net over it. The net should be at least 5 feet larger on all sides than the goal structure. Any kind of net can be used as long as the gaps in the net are smaller than a baseball.

    • 8

      Attach the edges of the net to the posts and crossbar using picture hooks or U-shaped nails.

    • 9

      Set the batting net upright and spread out the net. Secure the net using tent pegs so there is enough slack in the net to cushion the ball on impact.