DIY Multi-Sport Net

Ever thought of practicing your favourite sport for an upcoming season, then realized you don't have a net? I want to show you how to make a multi-sport net, so you can practice without the worry of spending too much money.

You Will Need:

1. 1 1/2 inch PVC Piping (used or new)
2. 2 "T" Fittings
3. 6 Elbow Fittings
4. 1 22 1/2 Degree Fittings
5. Netting (any type works)
6. Protective Eyewear
7. Work Gloves
8. Hack Saw
9. Zap-Straps/Zip-Ties

1. Gather supplies
2. Put on work gloves and glasses

1. Measure PVC to your desired length/height
2. Make sure your fittings and piping are the correct size, and fit together nicely

1. Using the hack saw, making sure the saw is lined up straight on the PVC (this is when you need the gloves and protective glasses)
2. Cut the PVC to desired length

1. Glue the fittings and pipes together
2. If you want it sturdy but easy to take down do not glue all the pipes and fittings together (picture shown)

1. If you are not glueing them, just pop the fittings on the PVC
2. You do not need glue, but it is recommended for a sturdier net

1. Connect the PVC piping to form the net structure (shell)
2. It should look something like this picture

1. Drape the net on top of the PVC structure (it is up to you how you want the netting to sit)
2. Use the Zap-Straps/Zip-Ties to secure the netting to the PVC (use however many straps you fill is necessary)

Making this net took a few hours, but was worth it. The pricing of a regular net from a store can get up to $550. The pricing for the supplies to build your own net is around $45- $80, but it was free as I had already had the supplies from previous projects. By using old PVC piping and old netting, we are not only saving money, but also saving the earth from more waste. I really enjoy lacrosse, and as a young person in today's society, it is hard to buy a net for practice because of the price. By building my own, I am able to save money, and still practice the sport I love. You could use this net for hockey practice as well, or target practice for soccer, but I chose to use lacrosse as an example. A struggle I had with this project was cutting the PVC straight. It was difficult to keep the saw in line while it was cutting the pipe, and if the chop isn't straight, the pipe and fittings will not line up well. It is a good idea to draw a small line on the pipe to ensure you cut the PVC properly.