Board Game Table

In 2005 a medical condition closed the woodshop to major projects for about 4 months. The recovery period provided the opportunity to investigate method of veneering wood surfaces. The first veneer prototype created a backgammon board. The playing triangles were shop made veneer from walnut and maple scraps. Embedded in a cork surface and trimmed with mahogany rails this project provided a quick learning curve.

Backgammon board with walnut and maple

A friend seeing this protoype requested a reversible board with chess on one side and backgammon on the other. Making chess boards from alternating solid block of wood was a tried and true method perfected over the years. The chess board’s 21 inch playing surface is made from 5/8 inch thick by 2 5/8 inch square blocks of maple and mahogony. The clear lacquer surface provides a protective surface that highlighted the natural wood color. Handrubbing the finish gave it a three dimensional look without the plastic feel or look that can result from gloss lacquer.

Solid blocks of contrasting wood makes the perfect field of conflict.

Upon seeing the final product, the friend admired the beauty but then stated she always wanted a round pedestal game board table with drawers for the pieces. The board was brought home and the second veneer project – a round table apron with drawers was added to the solid walnut top, pedestal and feet. To incorporate the board, the top is 30 inches in diameter with a 4.5 inch apron. The board is hinged on brass pins within a groove. The board rotates after removing one of the drawers so you my play backgammon or chess. Replacing the drawer locks the playing surface flush with the surrounding top.

Locked in place and ready to play

Ready to roll the dice