ok so l was thinking that l could build up an oval wall around a spot in my yard and pack the snow down and spray it lightly with the hose, just enough to get it pretty wet so it creates a very thick layer of ice and then on top of that put more water that will freeze and create a sturdy enough surface to skate on. Will this work? l sure have the snow for it

No, that will not work because the snow will collapse when any stress is put onto it.
It is much better to just build a plywood perimeter in an area, with plastic under it, and then to gradually pour water until it freezes (about 6 inches to a foot thick).

Tried that, the minute we put the net on it caved.
Go to a hardware store, buy a tarp, & some long pieces of wood to block out the base or the rink.
Lay the tarp down & staple or whatever the tarp to the wood.
Spray the tarp & let it freeze, keep repeating this layer process until it looks thick enough. For added protection u pack snow along the edges of the wood & then maybe even spray those with the hose for extra sturdiness.
hope this helps & good luck! l wish l could have my rink this year but all Ive gotten is rain... yawn