If you’re passionate about darts and want to take your practice sessions to the next level, creating the ideal darts setup at home is a great way to enjoy the game whenever you like. With the right equipment and layout, you can build a space that feels comfortable and professional, allowing you to sharpen your skills or simply have fun with friends. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to set up the perfect darts area at home.
1. Choose the Right Location
The first step is to find a suitable location for your dartboard. Ideally, it should be a room or an area with enough space for safe play. The wall where the dartboard will be hung should be solid, without any obstacles nearby that could interfere with your throw. Popular choices include garages, basements, or spare rooms.
2. Get the Correct Dartboard and Accessories
A quality dartboard makes all the difference. For a professional experience, choose a bristle dartboard, which is used in tournaments. Alternatively, an electronic dartboard could be a good choice if you prefer a modern touch or want automatic scoring.
Don’t forget the essential accessories:
- Darts (steel-tip for traditional boards or soft-tip for electronic boards)
- A dartboard surround to protect your walls
- A scoreboard (chalkboard, whiteboard, or an electronic option)
If you want to buy darts in New Zealand, check out the online darts store at dartsonline.co.nz.
3. Set the Right Height and Distance
Proper installation is key to ensure you’re practicing under regulation conditions. The dartboard should be mounted so that the bullseye is 1.73 meters (5 feet 8 inches) from the floor. Additionally, the throwing line, also known as the “oche,” should be marked 2.37 meters (7 feet 9 ¼ inches) from the face of the dartboard.
4. Protect the Floor and Walls
Playing darts can be tough on walls and floors, especially if you’re just starting out. Place a dartboard surround around the board to catch stray darts and protect the wall. For the floor, consider adding a rubber mat or dart mat, which will prevent darts from damaging the floor and reduce wear and tear on your darts themselves.
5. Ensure Proper Lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role in ensuring you can see the dartboard clearly and throw with accuracy. Use overhead lighting or a ring light that evenly illuminates the board without casting shadows. LED dartboard lights are a popular choice among dart enthusiasts because they provide consistent brightness.
6. Mark the Throwing Line (Oche)
The throwing line, or oche, is where you will stand to throw your darts. You can mark this line with tape or a more permanent solution, such as a rubber oche mat. A solid marker makes your setup feel more professional and helps with consistency during practice.
7. Consider Safety Measures
Safety should always be a priority, especially if you have children or pets at home. Ensure that nobody can accidentally walk into the throwing area when a game is in progress. Posting a “Game in Progress” sign can also help avoid potential accidents.
8. Add a Scoreboard
A scoreboard will make your darts area more functional and give it that authentic pub feel. You can opt for a chalkboard, whiteboard, or even a digital scoreboard to track your scores. Keeping score manually also helps you become familiar with the math involved in different darts games.
9. Decorate the Space for Ambiance
Adding some personality to your darts area can make it more enjoyable. Hang up some posters, put up memorabilia, or add shelving for trophies if you’re an active player. This will make the space more inviting for both practice and entertaining guests.
10. Invite Friends Over for Practice or Play Solo
Once your setup is complete, it’s time to start practicing. Whether you’re training for a local league or just enjoying darts with friends, having a well-designed darts area at home makes playing easy and accessible. In New Zealand, darts have grown in popularity as a social sport, and having a great setup will allow you to enjoy the game fully.
Conclusion
Setting up a darts area at home doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require careful planning. By choosing the right location, ensuring proper measurements, and adding a few finishing touches, you can create a comfortable space that encourages you to improve your skills and enjoy the game. Whether you’re a casual player or a serious darts enthusiast, having the perfect setup at home can make all the difference.
