DIY Friday - Chess Board/Tray

 Today, I will show you how to make a very simple chess board, which can be also used as a catch-all tray.

Way back in the day, I made H a chess set out of marbles and wire. Words cannot describe how much effort went into it, but it was worth it.
I've also made a chess board to go with it, but over the years and multiple moves, it got banged up, so when I finally decided to make a new one, I chose better materials.

Let's begin.

The materials needed are:

• square picture frame
• metallic spray paint
• painter's tape
• ruler
• marker

Step 1:
First, I marked where the grid would be on the board - it's 8 squares by 8 squares, and completely coincidentally, the frame was 8"x8", so - very easy!

But if you don't have the exact match, it's ok, just cut a piece of paper the same length as one side of your glass, then folded it in half, then again, then again! Make sure to crease the folds well, then unfold the paper and - instant guides!

Step 2: 

I used my guide marks to apply the tape in a grid as shown. Again, because it was 1" squares, and I had 1" tape, it was easy, but if your glass is bigger, just layer the tape, and if it's smaller, you can cut the tape to size - just lay it on wax paper first so it is easy to reapply.

Step 3:

Apply spray paint. Remember, it's better to do several light coats than to try to cover everything at once.
 

Step 4:

After the paint dries, remove the tape, and reapply it in a new grid. 

I know it looks just like the first photo, but the tape this time is covering the painted parts. The trick is to remember where your squares are and position the tape so that the new spraying will result in a checker pattern.

Step 5:

Spray paint it again, wait till dry, remove painter tape and insert back into the frame. You may need to adjust the little things that hold the glass in place, as you will not have the extra thickness of the cardboard backing.