A handmade olive wood chess set from Just True Arts is a solid-wood board and a full set of wooden pieces. The live edge follows the natural outline of the wood, so no two boards match. For regular play, choose a board of 40 cm or larger. Choose 22 cm only for display or travel. Add a drawer when the pieces should be stored inside the board.
Which board to choose
All four sets are solid wood, finished for play, and include free engraving. The difference is the edge and the storage.
Live-edge set, no drawer
Board and pieces, with the natural edge left on. Sizes are 22 cm, 33 cm, 40 cm, and 47 cm. Choose this when the board stays on a table between games. See the live-edge chess set.
Live-edge set with drawers
The same 22 cm, 33 cm, 40 cm, and 47 cm sizes, with drawers for the pieces. Choose this when the table needs to be cleared after a game. See the set with drawers.
Board with storage drawers
A straight-sided olive wood board with drawers and pieces. L is 35 cm with 30 mm squares. XL is 40 cm. Choose this when storage matters more than a large playing surface. See the storage-drawer board.
Live-edge board with one drawer
One drawer, for a desk or a smaller table. L is 35 cm with 30 mm squares. XL is 43 cm with 40 mm squares. See the single-drawer board.
What size to buy
Square size decides whether the set is comfortable to play. The 22 cm board is for display and travel. The 33 cm board fits a small table. Home play starts at 40 cm. The 47 cm board is the largest live-edge set. The full measurements are in what size wooden chess board to buy.
How engraving works
Engraving is free. On the product page, choose a font from F1 to F6 and type the name, initials, or date. Both are saved on the order so the letters can be cut in that style. Details are in how engraving works.
How to care for the wood
Wipe the board with a dry or slightly damp cloth. Keep it out of soaking water, strong heat, and long hours of direct sun. Grain, color, and the live edge vary because the wood is natural. More is in how to care for an olive wood chess board.
Questions people ask
Is a live-edge chess board unfinished?
No. The outline follows the natural edge of the wood. The playing surface has a protective finish.
Is an olive wood set for play or only for display?
Both. Use 40 cm, 43 cm, or 47 cm for regular games. Use 22 cm as a display or travel set.
Can a name be engraved on the set?
Yes. Pick font F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, or F6, then type the text on the product page before adding the set to the cart.
Which set is the right gift?
Give the live-edge set when the board will stay out. Give a set with drawers when the pieces should be stored in the board. A shorter comparison is in which chess set to give.