How to Laser Cut a Wooden Chess Set: Step by Step Tutorial

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Wooden Chess

2025-09-12

Key Information

Laser Machines
Material Needed
5mm Plywood
Project File Download
Settings
Engraving
Speed: 1,000mm/s
Max Power: 50%
DPI: 300
Number of Passes: 1
Settings
Scoring
Speed: 100mm/s
Max Power: 15%
Min Power: 10%
Number of Passes: 1
Settings
Cutting
Speed: 10mm/s
Max Power: 80%
Min Power: 5%
Number of Passes: 1

Introduction

Want to make your game nights more fun and stylish? A wooden chess made by you is the perfect way to add a touch of craftsmanship to your games.


In this tutorial, we’ll walk you step by step through everything about making a wooden chess. You’ll create a chess that’s not only functional but also a beautiful addition to your gaming setup. Gather your friends and enjoy the game like never before.

Before your work begins

Clean the lens and mirrors
Check the laser head and nozzle for dust or buildup
Ensure ventilation and air assist are working properly
Confirm the machine is running smoothly and normally

Operational Process

STEP01

Prepare & Position the Material

Start by laying your wooden board flat on the laser bed. Make sure the surface is clean and sits evenly without warping.


Use pins to prevent any shifting during cutting. Be mindful of the height of magnets and pins. If they are too tall, the sensor might hit them and become damaged during processing.

put the wood on the laser bed
Pins
STEP02

Import & Adjust the Design File

Import the wooden chess design in LaserMaker and check if your plywood size is large enough.


Double-check everything, and decide if you want to add or subtract elements according to your preferences. For the engraving, scoring, and cutting layers, make sure each layer uses the correct parameters before sending the file to the machine.

parameters for engraving and cutting a wooden chess
STEP03

Set the Correct Laser Focus

Proper focusing is essential for achieving crisp engravings and smooth cuts. If your machine supports auto focus, a single click will set the correct distance for flat wooden boards. If you prefer manual focus, use the focus stick to adjust the laser head until it touches the surface of the wood at a perfect vertical angle.

auto-focus-bolt.jpg
manual focus
STEP04

Start Engraving & Cutting

Use the Frame function to outline the engraving and cutting area. Make sure the projected frame matches your wood sheet and the design stays within the material boundary.


Once everything is set, start the laser job. Stay close to the machine while it’s running and watch the cutting and engraving progress. Keep an eye out for excessive smoke, small flame-ups, or any movement of the material that could affect the outcome.

Frame your design
Laser cutting the wooden international chess
STEP05

Post Processing

Once the laser job is complete, carefully remove the wooden chess pieces from the bed. Check the edges and engraved details, then gently wipe away any dust or residue.


Arrange the pieces on the chess board and make sure everything looks clean and ready to use. Your wooden chess set is now complete and ready for game night.

A well cut wooden international chess
International chess made with Thunder Laser machine

Come and Try!

I’ve finished my wooden chess—now it’s your turn! Whether you stick with a classic design or add your own engraved patterns, every chess tells its story. Grab your wood, fire up the laser cutter, and see how creative you can get—you might just make the most talked-about accessory on the table.


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