Chess Board

After joining LJ for more than several months I am somewhat embarrass that I have not posted any projects. I finally got around to it tonight. Well here it is. Another chess board with 2” tiles and a walnut frame/base. The tiles are grouted on a 3/8” birch plywood. I tried to keep it simple. Basically, it is all bunch of lap joints glue on to the plywood. The plywood is about 20” square. I sanded and finished the wood portion before during the tile. I used blue tape to mask off the wood when I did the tiles. I glued the tiles on, grouted and sealed. I kept the one with the low contrast square tiles. I think it blends in the room and don’t shout for attention.

I have made two other ones for a high school chess club raffle during a tournament. I did generate a lot of interest and ticket sales. I did generate a fair amount of money for the club both times.

I didn’t make the pieces though I wish I could. It is a purchased set from ebay (I got lucky. I paid around $65.00 with shipping for this set). I wish I can carve the Knight. I think the horse can make or break the overall impression of the chess set. I can handle the turnings but the carving of the knight scares me. I did see a very nice horse caring on LJ a day or two ago. It was part of a bookend. Being a chess player, I am very particular about the pieces. I like the classic Staunton style, about 4” kings, 4X weighted pieces, and felted bottom and the pieces to be made with quality wood. I like that “thump” sound as the piece is set down.

I am a fair chess player. Unfortunately I am not improving but my employer has recently hired a new employee who happens to have a 2000+ rating. I have already taken lessons. I have taken beatings over lunch breaks already. I don’t mind losing to a good players. If I lose enough, the odds are, I just might get lucky and win some day against a Master.

-- I'll be a woodworker when I grow up. HHHOPKS