Tuesday, March 25, 2014

The Games of Bobs

I've been meaning to do this post for awhile. Several people expressed an interest in the game my family played at Christmas.
I did a bit of research. The game of Bobs or Table Bobs has been around for long time. It was also played at fetes.
I found some sets for sale online at the most ridiculous prices, strangely enough on sites selling diversional therapy games for aged care. They are so missing a bigger market. I didn't find this particular brand and this set is quite old, so I don't think I'm doing anything wrong giving sizes.

So I have taken some photos and measurements for anyone interested in making their own set.

The blanket protects my dining table and provides a smooth playing surface. It is not really necessary.

Click on each photo - I've marked lines on them.

A (length of set)= 32 inches/ 81.5cm
B (height) = 2 in/ 5cm


C = 3/8in or 1cm (thickness of dividing pieces)
C1= 4in/10cm  (length of dividing pieces)
D= 1/2in or 12mm (end pieces)

 Two flaps hinge on each side to help guide the balls.
Flap length H = 11 in/28 cm
Flap thickness I = 1/4 in or 6mm

 Hole height F = 1 1/2 in or 4cm
Hole Width G = 1 1/2 in or 4cm

 There are 6 white balls and one black one. They are approximately 1 inch in diameter.
The cue is a piece of dowel about 36inches/91cm long. It tapers from about 7/8in or 2cm down to 3/8 in or 1cm.

You should be able to make out the rules in this photo. Don't forget your family can always have their own 'house rules'.

Have fun,
Cheryl (aka Kayly not Dory.That's another story.)

11 comments:

Grethe said...

Thanks a lot,Cheryl, I`ll be studying this for a while later on. Looks great for a come-together with family as well as friends:))

Unknown said...

What a great post. We played this as kids at my grandparents place and have been searching for a set for my Dad's pre-wake party. I don't suppose you have a contact for the balls? We've found a bridge and cue but need the balls.
Thanks for a great post 😊

Unknown said...

Hey - thanks for this = We used to play it at my Grandfather's home about seventy years ago. I am going to make a set and re-introduce it to the family

Unknown said...

I used to play the game of bobs at my grandparents house. Tricky.

Unknown said...

Hi Cheryl, thanks for the info on the Bobs game, it is exactly what I was looking for. Unfortunately I can't read the rules as it is just too small & enlarging the picture just makes it blurry. Would you be able to post a clearer picture of the rules please?

Thanks very much

Judy

Unknown said...

Where can I buy this?

Unknown said...

I have a complete set in great condition (In NZ)

col2560 said...

My father made our set from a hobby plans catalogue, he had to send away to England and wait about 3 mths for it to arrive via the post office

Unknown said...

Are you interested in selling it? We had a set when I was a kid and would like one for my grandkids

Memory Lane said...

Thank you for this Cheryl. It brings back many happy memories of childhood Bobs games at our family beach house. I've copied your instructions and sent them to my brother who is a woodworker. I hope he is inspired to make one for his grandchildren!

Craig said...

I have an original vintage BOBs game if anyone is interested. Contact me on 0412775156. Located in Albury NSW 2640