DIY Contemporary Chess Set

This project was designed and built by Elena Makes and it’s perfect for both beginners and experienced woodworkers. Follow along as we guide you through the steps to craft your very own contemporary chess set, complete with all the pieces!

Materials and Tools

  • Walnut wood
  • Curly maple wood
  • Wood glue
  • Plywood (1/4 inch thick)
  • Wood putty
  • Wood finish
  • Clamps
  • Miter saw
  • Table saw
  • Belt sander
  • Random orbital sander
  • Bandsaw
  • Bench dogs
  • Bench vise

Step 1: Sketch Your Design

Start by sketching your design for the chess set. Aim for a contemporary look while ensuring the pieces are easily recognizable. Think about the type of wood you want to use; walnut and maple are great choices for contrast.

Sketching the chess set design

Step 2: Cut the Wood

Using a miter saw, cut the walnut and maple boards into strips, making sure to leave some buffer for cuts. Keep in mind that chessboards are typically 16 inches by 16 inches, with each square measuring 2 inches by 2 inches.

Cutting the wood for the chess set

Step 3: Use the Table Saw

This is a crucial step! It was my first time using a table saw, so I had my dad supervise. Remember to put on the blade shield for safety, but be aware that it may obstruct your view.

Using the table saw for the first time

Step 4: Glue the Strips Together

After cutting the wood into strips, it’s time to glue them together. Use bench dogs and a bench vise to clamp them securely while they dry. Adding some weight on top can help prevent buckling.

Gluing the strips together

Step 5: Sand the Board

Since the board was too wide for the planer, I had to resort to using a belt sander. Be thorough, as any imperfections will show in the final product.

Sanding the chess board

Step 6: Create the Checkered Pattern

Cross-cut the board into 2-inch strips to form the checkered pattern. Flip every other strip in the opposite direction for the correct alignment. Watch out for the material lost during cuts; it’s crucial to account for this!

Creating the checkered pattern

Step 7: Glue Down the Board

Once all strips are ready, glue them down onto a quarter-inch piece of plywood. This plywood will not be visible in the final product as you will add a walnut trim around the edges.

Gluing the strips to the plywood

Step 8: Cut the Chess Pieces

For the chess pieces, I decided to use a bandsaw. Set up clamps and spare wood to create a safe cutting environment for your fingers.

Cutting the chess pieces on the bandsaw

Step 9: Final Cuts and Trim

Make any final cuts to ensure everything is perfectly square. Cut the walnut pieces for the trim and prepare them for assembly.

Making final cuts for the trim

Step 10: Sanding and Finishing

Sanding is the least favorite part for many, but it’s essential for a smooth finish. Once completed, applying the finish is the most satisfying part of the project!

Sanding the chess pieces

Step 11: Assemble the Chess Set

Finally, assemble all the pieces, ensuring everything fits together nicely. The final product should look beautiful and be ready for a game!

Final assembled chess set

And there you have it! A stunning contemporary chess set crafted from walnut and curly maple.

Video

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