How to build a wooden game board for checkers

How to Build a Wooden Game Board for Checkers

Creating a wooden game board for checkers is a rewarding woodworking project that adds a touch of craftsmanship to a classic game. A well-made wooden board not only serves as a functional gaming surface but also as a decorative piece that can be passed down through generations. In this guide, we’ll take you through the process of building a durable and visually appealing wooden checkers board from scratch.

Materials and Tools Needed

Materials

• Hardwood boards (Maple, Walnut, or Oak)
• Plywood or MDF board (for backing)
• Wood glue
• Wood stain (two contrasting colors)
• Polyurethane finish
• Sandpaper (120, 220, and 320 grit)
• Painter’s tape or masking tape
• Checkers pieces (store-bought or handmade)

Tools

• Table saw or circular saw
• Miter saw
• Clamps
• Measuring tape
• Square ruler
• Paintbrush or cloth (for staining)
• Sander or sanding block

Step 1: Determine the Board Size

A standard checkers board has an 8×8 grid of squares, with alternating light and dark colors. The typical size for a checkers board is 16 inches by 16 inches, with each square measuring 2 inches.

If you prefer a larger or smaller board, adjust the dimensions accordingly while maintaining an 8×8 grid.

Step 2: Cutting the Wood for the Board

To create the board, you will need to prepare 64 squares of wood in two contrasting colors.

1. Cut the Strips

   • Using a table saw, cut strips of wood that are 2 inches wide and at least 16 inches long.
   • Cut an equal number of strips from two different types of wood (one light and one dark).

2. Glue the Strips Together

   • Arrange the strips alternating light and dark to create a striped pattern.
   • Apply wood glue between the strips and clamp them together tightly.
   • Allow the glue to dry for at least 6-8 hours.

3. Crosscut the Strips into Squares

   • Once dry, use a table saw or miter saw to cut across the glued strips every 2 inches.
   • This will create eight new strips that now have alternating squares of wood.

4. Rearrange and Glue Again

   • Rotate every other strip 90 degrees to form a classic checkered pattern.
   • Apply wood glue between the strips and clamp them together again.
   • Allow drying for another 6-8 hours.

Step 3: Preparing the Board Backing

1. Cut a piece of plywood or MDF board to 16 inches by 16 inches.
2. Sand the edges smoothly and apply wood glue to the back.
3. Carefully place your checkered pattern on top of the backing and clamp it down evenly.
4. Let the glue cure completely.

Step 4: Sanding and Smoothing

• Use a 120-grit sandpaper to smooth the surface and remove any excess glue.
• Follow up with 220 and 320 grit for a polished finish.
• Ensure the surface is level, and there are no raised edges between squares.

Step 5: Staining and Sealing

1. Apply Wood Stain

   • If using the same type of wood for the entire board, use wood stain to create the contrasting squares.
   • Apply painter’s tape over the squares you want to keep light.
   • Stain the exposed squares with a darker stain.
   • Let the stain dry and remove the tape.

2. Seal the Board

   • Apply two to three coats of polyurethane finish for protection.
   • Let each coat dry before applying the next.
   • Lightly sand between coats with 320-grit sandpaper for a smooth finish.

Step 6: Adding a Border (Optional)

For a more professional look, add a wooden border around the board.

1. Cut four wooden strips (about 1 inch wide).
2. Miter the corners at 45-degree angles.
3. Glue and clamp the border around the edges.
4. Sand and apply finish to match the board.

Step 7: Making or Choosing Checkers Pieces

• You can buy pre-made checkers pieces or craft your own from small wooden disks.
• If making your own, cut 1.5-inch diameter circles from wood using a hole saw.
• Sand the edges and stain half of them dark to match the board.

Final Thoughts

Your handcrafted wooden checkers board is now complete! This project is an excellent way to hone your woodworking skills and create a timeless game piece for family gatherings. If you’re interested in more woodworking plans, check out Ted’s Woodworking Course for expert guidance and hundreds of project ideas:
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