How to Make a Magnetic Chess Board

Take a piece of square scrap wood, at least 8 X 8 inches, or larger if you prefer a larger board. If necessary, sand it smooth with a fine grit sandpaper. Wipe away dust with a damp rag and allow it to dry.

Paint your board with two or three coats of a latex magnetic primer. Allow the coats to dry between applications.

Test your board by putting some small magnets on them. Add another coat or two of primer, if necessary, to ensure the magnets will hold.

Paint your entire board with a coat of latex paint in any color.

Use a ruler and a pencil to draw a grid on your board with eight rows across, and eight rows down, so that there are 64 squares of the exact same size. If you are using a 8 X 8 inch board, each square on the grid will be one inch square. If you are using a larger board, measure it and divide that number by eight to calculate how big each square should be.

Cut painter's tape with scissors, covering every other square on the grid, thereby creating a checker-board pattern.

Use a craft brush and black paint, or whatever second color you choose, to paint the exposed squares. Remove the painter's tape and allow the board to dry.

Purchase an inexpensive chess set with hollow, lightweight plastic pieces from a dollar or discount store.

Place the magnets inside the chess pieces, using a dab of hot glue to secure them in place at the base of the piece.

Place your pieces on your board and enjoy your game.