How to make a wooden chess table with storage drawers

How to Make a Wooden Chess Table with Storage Drawers

Creating a wooden chess table with built-in storage drawers is a rewarding woodworking project that combines functionality with elegance. This guide will walk you through the process step by step, from material selection to finishing touches.

Materials and Tools Needed

Materials

• Hardwood (Maple, Walnut, Oak, or Cherry) – for the table frame and legs
• Plywood (Birch or Oak Veneer) – for the tabletop and drawer bottoms
• Wood glue
• Wood screws and nails
• Drawer slides or wooden rails
• Chessboard veneer or wood strips (light and dark wood)
• Sandpaper (120, 220, and 320 grit)
• Wood stain and finish (Polyurethane, Shellac, or Lacquer)
• Drawer knobs or handles

Tools

• Table saw
• Miter saw
• Jigsaw
• Router (with dovetail or dado bits for joints)
• Clamps
• Drill and bits
• Chisels
• Measuring tape and square
• Wood filler and putty knife
• Paintbrushes or rags for staining

Step 1: Design and Dimensions

Determine the size of your chess table. A standard chessboard is 16″ x 16″, but you may want to make the table larger (e.g., 24″ x 24″) to accommodate storage and chess pieces.

• Table height: Typically, around 28″–30″
• Storage drawers: Should be deep enough to store chess pieces, around 2–4 inches

Step 2: Build the Tabletop

A. Creating the Chessboard

1. Cut chessboard squares

   • Use light and dark wood strips (e.g., Maple and Walnut).
   • Cut strips to 2″ wide and 16″ long.
   • Glue alternating strips together.
   • Once dried, cut across the strips at 2″ intervals to create rows.
   • Rearrange and glue them together to form a checkerboard pattern.

2. Frame the board

   • Cut a 1″-wide border around the chessboard from a single wood piece for consistency.
   • Glue and clamp the border in place.

Step 3: Construct the Table Frame

1. Cut and assemble the apron (table sides)

   • Cut four apron pieces (matching the size of your tabletop).
   • Join them using pocket hole screws or dovetail joints.
   • Leave space on two opposite sides for drawer openings.

2. Attach the legs

   • Cut four sturdy legs (about 28″ tall).
   • Attach legs to the apron using mortise and tenon joints or screws and dowels for a strong connection.

Step 4: Install Storage Drawers

1. Cut and assemble drawers

   • Cut drawer fronts, sides, backs, and bottoms from plywood.
   • Use dovetail joints, box joints, or simple butt joints with screws.
   • Glue and clamp the drawers securely.

2. Install drawer slides or wooden rails

   • Use metal drawer slides for smooth operation.
   • Alternatively, create wooden grooves inside the frame to allow drawers to slide manually.

3. Attach drawer fronts and handles

   • Align drawer fronts with the apron for a flush look.
   • Secure handles or knobs in the center.

Step 5: Sanding and Finishing

1. Sand all surfaces

   • Start with 120-grit sandpaper, then move to 220 and 320-grit for a smooth finish.

2. Apply wood stain (optional)

   • Use a dark stain for contrast or a natural finish to showcase the wood grain.

3. Apply a protective finish

   • Use polyurethane, shellac, or lacquer for durability.
   • Apply multiple coats, sanding lightly between coats.

Final Thoughts

A custom wooden chess table with drawers adds elegance to any space and provides a practical way to store chess pieces. With the right tools and patience, you can craft a masterpiece that will last for generations.

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