This project was built and designed by Jason from PatriotDIY.
It’s a transportable, adjustable folding pitcher’s mound designed specifically for youth baseball and softball players who need a reliable, portable mound they can set up and move with ease.
Jason’s clever design breaks the mound into three sections that fold together, roll on wheels, and lock tight for easy transport. It’s a smart solution that addresses common issues with bulky, heavy practice mounds.
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Why Go with a Folding Design?
Many temporary mounds are heavy and awkward, often requiring two or more people to move. Jason set out to build something lighter and more manageable without sacrificing the feel of a real mound.
The folding mechanism and built-in wheels make this version easy to transport by one person. And the folding feature means the entire unit fits neatly in a garage, SUV, or field shed without taking up too much space.
Simple Concept with Smart Engineering
The build is broken into three hinged sections. Each one is a box frame topped with a sloped platform and finished with turf for a realistic look.
Heavy-duty hinges connect the sections and allow them to fold inward like a tri-fold table. Adjustable latches lock the sections together tightly during transport, while a retractable handle allows the user to pull the folded mound like rolling luggage.
It’s a simple idea that’s elevated by smart layout, clean joinery, and thoughtful hardware placement. The result is a practice tool that’s both functional and durable enough for repeated use on and off the field.
Building for Outdoor Use
To handle field conditions, Jason uses exterior-grade plywood for all panels. Sealing every piece is key for long-term durability, and he opts for a combination of exterior primer and a roll-on truck bed liner for the base coat.
This bed liner finish adds serious durability—resisting wear from cleats, moisture, and sun. Jason uses spray in tight corners, then rolls out the main surfaces for full coverage and even texture.
Strength and Structure
Each section of the mound is constructed with a rigid box frame. Corner blocks, center supports, and glued joints keep everything square and prevent flex underfoot.
The slope across the mound is created by tapering the side panels. Jason carefully designs the sections to create a seamless slope when assembled, which replicates the real pitching experience for young players.
Handles are built into the rear section for lifting and carrying when needed. Small touches like these make a big difference when moving or loading the mound into a vehicle.
Practical Hardware Features
Wheels are mounted on the back section, placed to allow smooth rolling when the mound is tipped on its edge. Washers and locknuts help distribute the load and protect the plywood from damage.
Hinges between the three sections are heavy-duty and recessed slightly below the surface so they don’t interfere with the turf or affect the pitching motion. Alignment is critical—Jason uses stop blocks and clamps during mounting to ensure smooth folding action with minimal gaps.
Latches on the sides lock the folded sections together for transport. These are fully adjustable, so tension can be fine-tuned to avoid over-clamping or damaging the turf.
Turf Installation for Realistic Feel
The top of the mound is finished with high-quality nylon turf that mimics the look and feel of clay. It provides solid footing while enhancing the visual design.
Turf is glued down using exterior adhesive and pressed with a roller. Edges are wrapped underneath and stapled to hide the seams and secure everything in place. A razor knife trims corners for a clean, tight fit.
After installation, Jason fluffs the turf pile to remove impressions from the staples, leaving a neat and professional surface.
Adjustable for Different Ages
One of the best features of this build is its adaptability. If a player moves up to a higher division with a taller mound height, a thin riser platform can be added underneath the base to increase elevation evenly.
This makes the same core structure usable for multiple age groups and pitching levels—saving time and material without sacrificing performance.
Portable, Durable, and Player-Approved
The finished mound rolls easily, folds tight, and feels solid during use. It’s designed to be tough enough for regular practice while remaining light enough for solo transport.
Whether it’s being used at the park, in the backyard, or on a travel team field, this folding mound delivers on all fronts: stability, convenience, and a realistic pitching feel.
Please support Jason by visiting his Etsy Store: https://www.etsy.com/shop/patriotdiy.