Chess Boards, At Long Last

Chess Boards, At Long Last Leave a comment

It’s been my # 1 request for quite some time, and I’ve finally gotten the first batch of chess boards out of the shop. It took a while.

Each of the boards are made with 2″ squares and a 1″ contrasting border surrounding the playing area. The border is 1″ thick, and does have non-marring rubber feet underneath to ensure a steady surface for the games.

Finish is mineral oil with a top coat of locally-harvested beeswax mixed with mineral oil. Yes, that’s the same finish as my cutting boards, and there is no real reason that these chess boards should be food ready … the oil finishes the woods in a natural coating that’s easily refreshed, so I stuck with the same procedure as the 30+ food-grade boards I was finishing in the ~~garage~~ woodshop at the same time.

I am not selling chess pieces currently, though Mrs. M is already in my ear about that. If you happen to know a carver or a turner that wants to make some great chess pieces for me, I’m interested!

Chess Board # 01. Black Walnut & Red Oak squares with a Cherry border. 17″ x 17″ x 1″

Chess Board # 02. Black Walnut & Hard Maple squares with a Goncalo Alves border … AKA Tiger Wood. Perfect for spirited games.

Chess Board # 03. Mahogany & White Oak squares with a Walnut border.

Ches Board # 04. Padauk & Honey Locust Squares with a Cherry Border. Note that the orange Padauk will change over time – particularly with UV exposure – and will end up a nice warm brown.