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2K views 15 replies 12 participants last post by  AandCstyle 
#1 · (Edited by Moderator)
I have been asked to make a chess board. That part is easy.

After designing the board, the customer wanted to add "coordinates" around the perimeter.

The board is approximately 20" square including a trim wrap. Does anyone have any ideas on how to do this? I thought maybe a premade inlay but haven't been able to find one.

Any ideas, suggestions or sources will be greatly appreciated.

Lew
 
#6 · (Edited by Moderator)
Something I've done in the past is to use some lettering/numbering punches, punch them in the wood, then fill the void with tinted epoxy or some other offsetting colored material. Once dried/hardened, sand flush. The ones at HF might work, but are a bit on the small side (3/8" high). Clamp a straight edge on the piece so they are all aligned correctly.

Cheers,
Brad
 
#7 · (Edited by Moderator)
Lew, I think this is what you are looking for. I have done several of these, and I used rub on lettering from Hobby Lobby. You can get different sizes and styles to suit what the customer wants. Here is a couple of links that I think you will find helpful. Hope this helps

Chess board coordinate

Rub On Lettering

Another Chess Board coordinates
 
#8 · (Edited by Moderator)
Interesting project Lew,
First, I would suggest clarifying whether or not the customer wants the coordinates marked for both players to read easily from their respective positions as shown here . . .

Rectangle Font Wood Parallel Pattern


. . . or is just one set of markings enough?

You should also make sure that A1 is the darker square, as shown at the bottom left, to comply with traditional setup of the game pieces. Laser marking is a good option, and some sign making companies can provide the option of laser cutting so that you could have them cut out the openings in one colour of veneer, and also cut out the matching insertion pieces from a contrasting veneer. Better yet, you could talk to Shipwright (Paul) for a quality hand made version.

Looking forward to seeing the final board.
 

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#12 ·
Thank You, Thank You, Thank You!

I'm not a chess player (or even checkers) so all of these ideas are helpful.

This is what I know so far-
The customer wants the letters/numbers on all 4 edges.
The customer is a friend and doesn't want to spend a lot of money (probably leaves out laser work).
I like the wood burning idea- I'd have to use stencils because my hands aren't as steady as they used to be.

I'll pass along these ideas to him and see what he thinks.

Thanks again for all your help. I know I could count on LJ's to come thru!
 
#13 ·
Hi Lew,
I checked with our local sign company (equipped with a laser) and I was told that the laser cost is approximately $1 per minute. So, a surface burn would cost less compared to actually cutting out pieces. Wood burning sounds like an excellent option. I've seen one method where an inexpensive brass stencil was used, with a small torch flame, to burn through the stencil opening while keeping the stencil flat against the wood. Since each character was only used 2 times, at relatively low heat, the stencil did not distort. I think he did a bit of practice first. Depending on the stencil used, you would also have a bit of choice as to font style and size.
Just another thought to toss into the pot. Have fun with it.
 
#14 · (Edited by Moderator)
Like I had said:

Set of Letter/number stamps
insize deeply each letter and number. Numbers along the right-hand side so one player can read. Turn 180, and then do the other right side 1 through 8

Incise the letters ( Capital letters) along the edge closetest to the player. From L-R: R K B Q K B K R The outer two "K" can have a small "n" next to them. Spin the board 180, and make the letter stamps again.

Go to Hobby Lobby, buy a small jar/bottle of Gold paint, and a small brush. Fill each incised mark with the paint, and allow to dry. Buff flush with the surrounding wood, and add the finish.

Note: Metal Flake Gold paint might be a bit much????

KP to K4,,,,your move…
 
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