rolled paper chess set

I am indisputably an advocate of handmade presents.  In celebration of O.T.’s birthday,  I decided to make him a travel-size chess set entirely out of paper.  The chess pieces are crafted out of tightly rolled strips of black and cream paper.  The box is millboard covered in paper (black for the exterior; white and brown for the board).  The affixed monogram, too, is paper.  The only exception to the rule is the Mod Podge which I used as a sealant and lacquer.  Undoubtedly, this travel set will be exposed to much wear and tear, and perhaps some spills, so I wanted to be doubly sure it will endure.  It took a fair bit of time in planning and more so in the execution.  Each piece was carefully crafted with love for my love, who, dare I mention, was a chess champ at the age of 15.  No one deserves this as much as he.

I am happy to give the specs if you are interested in undertaking this project.  The pieces range from 3/4″ to 2″ in height.  The board squares are 3/4″.  The box is a portable 6-3/4″ square.  I began each piece with the strip for the shaft, and moved outwards at the base and at the top.  I generously applied glue to each strip using a glue stick before tightly rolling.  I used very light cardstock — 65 lb stock is sufficient, any thicker would not roll well, and any thinner would take an eternity to build up.  Do not forget to apply a sealant.  I used Mod Podge with a gloss finish, though in hindsight wish I used matte.