DIY Wooden Chess Set: Carve Your Own Chess Pieces from Tree Roots 2026

Building a DIY chess set is a fun activity and a great introduction to more complex woodworking projects. While walking through a chestnut forest, it's not uncommon to come across galls — woody growths (as large as an orange) that grow in a globular shape at the base of old stumps.

The galls detach easily with a simple twist, as they are connected to the plant's roots only by a thin stalk. At first glance, galls seem to have no practical use, but we can use them to create DIY chess pieces that look like wizards and gnomes — even all the pieces for a truly original chessboard.

What You Need to Make DIY Chess Pieces

• Chestnut galls
• Woodcarving knives
• Sandpaper
• Brush
• Water-based wood stain
• Satin or gloss varnish

Before you start, make sure your workspace is well-organized. A sturdy work desk or surface can make all the difference when carving intricate details.

How to Make DIY Chess Pieces

The galls should be peeled immediately after harvesting, while the bark is still fresh and full of sap, to obtain a nice, smooth white ball. At this point, the wood is still very soft and easy to work with, though the flexibility of the fibers makes it difficult to create the smallest details. By letting the galls dry for a long time, you can achieve a rich set of details like beards, hands, and faces.

Carving the Pawns

To make the pawns for your DIY chess set, use the smallest galls. Once peeled, carve the galls with a knife, leaving the stalk cone intact to create a cone-shaped hat.

Carving the King and Queen

Use the largest galls to make the king and queen, whose features are left to your imagination. Work gently with the knife to achieve the desired shapes. The face is the most delicate part. By sinking the blade beneath the eyes, the nose emerges — more or less stubby — along with the smile that characterizes each of these carved characters differently.

Shaping the Details

The most laborious part, especially if the gall is aged, is thinning the figure with the knife at the waistline to highlight the shapes of arms, beards, and hair. For a truly professional finish, consider pairing your chess set with a beautiful dining table where you can display and play the game in style.

Once carved, sand each piece smooth with fine-grit sandpaper. Apply a water-based wood stain for color, then seal with a satin or gloss varnish to protect your work. Display your completed chess set on a stylish entertainment or display shelf for a conversation-starting decor piece.

DIY Chess Set: 32 Pieces

A full chess set requires 32 pieces: 16 light and 16 dark. You can stain half the pieces with a darker wood stain to create the classic black-and-white contrast. Organize your tools and materials in a bookcase or shelving unit to keep your workshop tidy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of wood instead of chestnut galls?

Yes! While chestnut galls are traditional for this Italian DIY project, you can also use soft woods like basswood or pine. If you're looking for home improvement supplies to expand your woodworking toolkit, check out our curated collection.

How long does it take to carve a full chess set?

Depending on your experience level, carving a full 32-piece set can take anywhere from 20 to 40 hours. Beginners should start with the simpler pawns and work up to the king and queen.

What's the best finish for wooden chess pieces?

A satin or gloss polyurethane varnish provides durability and a professional look. For a natural feel, you can also use beeswax or Danish oil. Store your finished pieces in a storage bench to keep them safe when not in use.

Can I paint the chess pieces instead of staining them?

Absolutely! Acrylic paints work well on dried wood. You can add intricate details like robes, crowns, and facial features. A wall decor shelf makes a great display area for your painted pieces.

Is this project suitable for beginners?

Yes, carving galls is a forgiving project for beginners because the wood is soft when fresh. However, always use sharp tools and work slowly. A comfortable office chair can help you maintain good posture during long carving sessions.

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