How to Choose the Right Bingo Supplies for Your Event

Planning a bingo night? Whether it’s a small gathering with friends or a big fundraising event, having the right supplies can make all the difference. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right bingo supplies for your needs?

Consider the Size and Type of Event

• Casual game with friends? A basic bingo set with reusable cards and a simple ball cage might be perfect. You can even make it a potluck and have everyone bring their favourite snacks!
• Large charity fundraiser? You might need heavier-duty bingo equipment like a professional-grade bingo blower machine, disposable paper cards, and daubers in bulk. Think about your available space and how many people you expect to attend. Will you need multiple bingo callers and assistants to manage the crowd?

Think About the Players

• Seniors or those with visual impairments? Large-print bingo cards and easy-to-grip daubers are a must. Consider offering magnifying glasses and ensuring adequate lighting in the playing area.
• Kids playing? Consider fun, themed bingo cards with pictures or characters instead of numbers. You can even incorporate educational themes like animals, colours, or shapes to make it a learning experience.

Choose the Right Bingo Cards

• Disposable paper cards are great for large events or when hygiene is a concern. They’re also convenient for one-time use and eliminate the need for cleaning and storage.
• Reusable hard cards with shutters are more economical for regular games. They are durable and can withstand repeated use, making them a great investment for frequent bingo nights.
• Consider how many cards each person needs and the total number of players. Do you want to offer different card variations to increase the challenge and excitement?

Choosing Bingo Paper

Finding the right bingo paper can be confusing if this is your first time. 1 On, 3 On and 6 On are confusing if you don’t know bingo lingo. In bingo, “On” means the number of faces printed on a sheet of paper. If you have experienced bingo players, choose a higher number of faces per sheet, such as 9 On.  

Here are a few face count examples:

• 1 On: 1 bingo face per sheet.
• 3 On, 4 On, 6 On, 9 On : 3 to 9 bingo faces per sheet.
• 18 On: 18 bingo faces per sheet.

Product types and session size matter too. You can choose from straight goods, collated books or pattern paper, depending on your players experience level and session size count. For example, if you’re playing several short games in a row, you’re best off with a collated book. 

Face count, format, and event type all affect which bingo paper is right for you. A bingo fundraiser and a church group session, for example, calls for different needs.

Estimate Bingo Paper Quantity

The amount of paper you order and use for bingo will often determine the financial success of your event. A rule of thumb is to multiply the number of attendees (expected) by the number of games you expect to run. Add 10-15% for walk-ins, no-shows, and errors. 

For example, for 90 attendees for 10 games – you’ll need approximately 900 to 1,00 sheets. Ordering slightly more than you need for your event is necessary to make sure you don’t run out and have to order last-minute as costs will be higher. 

Don’t Forget the Accessories

• Daubers: Offer a variety of colours and types. Some players prefer traditional ink daubers, while others might prefer colourful stickers.
• Bingo balls: Ensure you have a complete set and consider extras in case of loss. You can also choose between different ball sizes and materials depending on your preference.
• Cage or blower: Choose a manual cage for smaller games or an electric blower for larger events. A blower adds excitement and ensures random ball selection for a fair game.
• Prizes: What’s bingo without exciting prizes? Choose prizes that appeal to your audience, from gift certificates and small gadgets to larger items like electronics or even a weekend getaway.

Event Supply Checklist

• Collated books, pattern paper, straight goods
• Daubers
• Balls, cages/blowers, chips
• Raffle tickets 
• Prizes, supplies & volunteer information
• Disposable or reusable cards
• Magnifying glasses (visually impaired or senior players)

For bingo events, always consider the expected number of attendees so you can maximize your time and supplies to make your event a financial success. 

Visit Canuck Amusements | Your One-Stop  Bingo Store in Calgary

We offer a wide selection of bingo supplies to suit every need and budget. Our knowledgeable staff can help you choose the perfect products for your event and answer any questions you may have. We pride ourselves on providing excellent customer service and expert advice to ensure your bingo event is a success.