Santa Clause brought me a copy of "Making wooden chess sets" by Jim Kape. There are I believe, 13 different patterns for chess sets and the book recommended this one to begin with. The chess pieces are cut from brown maple and walnut and the chess board is from maple and walnut.
I do have to admit this was a learning experience and there are certain things that I will most definitely do differently with the next board and chess pieces..
When I think back, 2 weeks ago this was a a few pieces of 4/4 rough lumber and now it is a wicked cool looking chess board. This gives me encouragement to make more stuff. I have my second chess board in the basement all glued up for the first of 2 rounds.
This set is called Neo-Classic II. Once you get the hang of it, it is pretty easy to cut. I am looking forward to making several more sets for family. I think now is a great time to get a jump on Christmas. Cut now and beat the rush.
I am planning on cutting a few sets and seeing how they do at our holiday craft shows next season.
This morning it was a chilly 7 below zero outside. my basement work shop does not have much in the way of heat down there so I do not get to spend all day there. I spend an hour or so then come and warm up some. I try showing my wife how cold it is down there by putting my hands on her back but she has gotten wise to that and its getting harder to sneak up on her now.
I have called my Uncle up who lives just a few mile up the road and challenged him to a early morning chess game tomorrow. The good news is I have a great board to play chess on. the bad news is I have not played chess in 30 years or so. This should be an interesting game.
Ok I have rambled on enough for now. Thanks for checking this out and try to stay warm.
Geno
