How to Make a Shotski
Behold the shotski: a brilliant piece of alcohol-related engineering, Andy Cohen’s liquor vessel of choice, and the only reason we can think of to own skis. The shotski takes communal shots to the next level, encouraging everyone to cozy up next to each other to drink in unison from shot glasses secured onto a ski.
Much like beer pong tables and grenadine, shotskis shouldn’t be bought in a store but rather made at home. So grab those old skis that have been leaning in the back of the garage ever since your high school winter field trip, and get to crafting. Here’s how to create your own shotski, just in time for holiday party season.
Tools
- Old ski with wood core, over 170 cm long
- 4 thick, plastic shot glasses
- Handheld electric drill
- 1-⅜’’ Forstner drill bit
- Safety glasses
- Disposable dust mask
- Measuring tape
- Marker
- Sandpaper, 60-80 grit
- Clear, silicone adhesive glue
- Paint and paint pens (optional)
- Velcro and scissors (optional)
Step 1: Get Your Supplies in Order
Get yourself an old, wood-core ski—the longer the better. Avoid newer skis that have a laminated metal layer inside. Opt for skis without bindings or remove the bindings before you start work on your shotski. Make sure the shot glasses are uniform, made from thick, durable plastic. Most standard size shot glasses will work.
Step 2: Measure and Mark
On a level, sturdy surface, measure the length of the ski from tip to base, and divide that measurement by four, then measure widthwise and divide in half. With a marker, use the length measurement to mark every quarter length of the ski with a small tick, using the width measurement to place each mark in the center of the ski—these marks are where you will be placing your shot glasses. Make sure that none of the markings are on the curved part of the ski—that’s a quick way to end up with a Fireball-soaked shirt.
Step 3: Drill Some Shot Glass Nooks
If you’re wondering why you’re bothering to break out the drill instead of simply gluing the shot glasses to the ski, here’s why: Drilling into the wood layer of the ski will create a sturdier shotski. The glue adheres better to the wood than the fiberglass surface, and the depressions will help secure the glasses even more.
Before you get to drilling, slip on a disposable face mask and safety goggles, as fiberglass fumes aren’t the best to inhale. Hold the drill with the 1-⅜’’ drill bit at a 90-degree angle over each marker, and drill a few millimeters into the ski, being careful not to drill completely through. You only need to create a shallow depression to reach the wood layer.
Step 4: Personalize Your Shotski (Optional)
If you want to decorate your ski, now’s the time. Sand the surface of the ski so the paint will stick, and paint the ski—use a paint pen for text or any intricate design work. Allow the paint to fully dry before continuing to assemble the shotski.
Step 5: Stick on Some Shot Glasses
Smooth out any imperfections in the depression to make a completely smooth surface. To adhere the shot glasses, you have two choices, depending on the type of shotski you prefer:
- For a permanent shotski: Spread heavy-duty, clear silicone glue (not Gorilla Glue) over the entire hole, and firmly press the shot glass into the hole—holding the glass in place for several seconds. Repeat with remaining shot glasses.
- For a shotski with removeable glasses: Cut a piece of velcro to fit inside the hole, and adhere it to the ski with the glue. Adhere the other side of the velcro to the base of a shot glass. Repeat with remaining shot glasses. The result will be less sturdy than the first option, but the shot glasses will be removable for easy cleaning and storage.
Step 6: Wait, Then Shoot!
Wait 24 hours for the glue to dry completely before using your new toy. When you’re ready, fill the shots with booze, then line four people up in front of the shots. If this is your first shotski, start outside as there may be some spillage. Carefully lift the ski up together, making sure to keep it steady and level. Then, in unison, bring the shotski up and tilt back the shots. Congratulations, you just christened your homemade shotski.