BraRoe Chess Blog

Once chess pieces have been created and all of the details that need to be worked in to the material have been completed, the final step is adding material to the base of the pieces. The added padding provides 2 functions. 

The first is to protect the pieces and chess board from each other when playing. Some times all of the moving of the chess pieces across the board will strip finished away or lead to chips in the chess set. It should be noted that this is not a defect in the quality of the chess set, just part of the natural wear. 

The second reason for the padding is more for the feeling of the game of chess. Having the padded bottoms allows the chess pieces to float across the chess board. When moving the queen from end of the board to the other has that additional sense of gliding along her path. 

There are two different types of padding that are available for chess pieces, leather and felt pads. Leather pads are usually reserved for chess pieces that are on the more expensive side. They add a good and thick cushion on the bottom that is very durable. The other option is green felt that is professional billiard table quality. The green felt provides a good quiet sound when playing, as well as the utmost protection for your fine wood chess board. 

Tags: Chess Pieces, Chess Boards //