A Chessboard made from Junk Furniture and Scrap Metal

I needed a chessboard fit for a King, or maybe two of them, and Queens, Bishops, etc...
The wood is from some old discarded furniture, a mix of walnut and what might be mango wood, but I can't be sure.
The piece of brass is a kick plate from the bottom of an old door.
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[@19TheFallen]

As they say, "One man's trash is another man's treasure." And you sure turned that pile of trash into treasure!

[@derangeded]

I hope you’re very proud of the work you do! You’ve earned so much respect on this site not just because of the beauty of your projects, but your gentleness and love when making them

[@kronkwarburton2562]

I watch a fair number of woodworking channels on KZbin, but this one is far and away the best. No dialog, no narrative; just a man and his tools bringing to life the image in his brain for us to share and enjoy. Love the projects, love the format. Thank you, Jason for your time and efforts.

[@stufromoz8164]

Agreed

[@julianbrown612]

Fantastic upcoming. Been doing some myself but nowhere near as professionalism, and such care. Thank you again for sharing your skills and craft!

[@TimRoyalPastortim]

Well said.

[@nndn-wc6ko]

that sweet unfiltered sound of a band saw cutting metal plate

[@thepleulable]

You're the only KZbinr where I'm happy to see a new video out.

[@philippkowalski1105]

If you want to know what "Epic" stands for, look no further. In this channel and the amazing art that is created, you will find its true meaning.

[@kersi-sandiego6036]

What a gem. No exaggeration, just the honest truth, viz., epic out of the ballpark home run. BTW, the unobtrusive music was great. Thank you, Sir!

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much :)

[@stevedoolanTacoma]

In the words of Ron Weasley, that was bloody brilliant. Cheers from 4500 miles away (7200 Km). 😎

[@user-yn7rw6mi7h]

The first video of your channel that I saw was the 'Narnia' wardrobe, and I was hooked. You are not only a superbly skilled craftsman, but an incredible artist. The detail and finish that you put into everything you make is amazing, and anyone who owns one of your pieces is very lucky, they are worthy of becoming family heirloom items. It is hard to believe that such beautiful items are made from stuff that most would burn or bin as unusable, and it is a good lesson to everyone to take a second thought before just tossing stuff out. Thanks for letting us all see the beauty of your work, and the process behind the finished pieces.

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much for the comments :)

[@expatmoose]

The first I saw of him was his 3D reindeer, have you seen that? I’ve watched him ever since 👍🏻 super ideas he has and so relaxed in his ways of work. Top!

[@keithmarlowe5569]

The wardrobe was my first video as well. I vowed to stop watching his videos, but can't help myself.

[@yateleyhypnotherapy2111]

That is so very beautiful. Whoever commissioned that is going to have something they can pass down through their family for generations. Thank you for your videos. There is something about watching people create which is indescribable.

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much :)

[@cebitoDD]

I have to get this off my chest now. I've been watching your videos for a long time. I love how you breathe new life into old things/materials. And I like the unspectacular way you present yourself and your work. When I've had a stressful day, your videos help me to come down and relax again. Thanks for this

[@martinlouden9005]

I've seen enough of your projects now that I shouldn't be surprised at just how good they turn out. But I always am Jason!

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks Martin :)

[@jonathandunbar7721]

cram 100s of people in a factory with state of the art machinery/software and they can produce hundreds and thousands of exact replicas of things that all ready needlessly exist in the world. place a dude in a workshop with a bunch of scrap, and he can produce truly one of pieces that have never been seen before. KEEP IT COMING!!

[@SinuheElGuardian]

I have no words. I love chess and woodworking. This is.... just perfect.

[@Ginger51]

The attention to detail on the tiniest pieces. Then shows us he’s got dozens duplicated. Blows my mind the patience you have sir!

[@menooayman3257]

A work that deserves respect. I imagine that there is a difference between perfection and love. Perfection is the desire to reach the highest level that perfection allows. As for love, it is the desire for beauty. You combine the two.

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much :)

[@IckyNeko]

Subbed after the first minute, because he uses his tools safely. So many youtube makers don't follow safety instructions and it's refreshing to see someone do so. ❤

[@Peter-ef6ut]

Sir, it is a privilege to watch the hands of a master create the things you do. Thank you for sharing the skills of a true Sensei..Peter, Bristol. U.K.

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much, Peter :) Jason, Yorkshire. U.K.

[@SkittleKicksPlays]

Who needs crazy technology when you can make sawdust! Younger generations really need to appreciate what real craftsmanship looks like and what you can accomplish with your own hands/imagination. This is real artistry.

[@shelleysnailparlour2392]

Outstanding Craftsmanship! ❤ I love watching you create these beautiful items! This chess board will become a precious heirloom for generations to enjoy and treasure. It is skills like yours that need to be taught to our kids once more, instead of the flat pack generations our country seem happy to settle on. 😢

[@flyball1788]

Awesome. I am indescribably glad that there are people as brilliant, creative and skilled as you around to make these things. A true master of your craft.

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much :)

[@reinharddecker4650]

After some taller projects now just a "little chessboard"... But the same quality... Genious!

[@MrGibbie2210]

Now that a masterpiece, worthy of a place in anyone’s home.

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much :)

[@SophieT1416]

I've watched a number of videos where people ask for suggestions for using their off cuts and scraps. I have always suggested game boxes with a playing surface on top and a drawer for game pieces. All they could come up with was cutting boards and signs. I am so pleased to see your idea. Beautiful.

[@EpicUpCycling]

I've got a few ideas for a gaming table. Hope to do a video at some point :)

[@frankrichter2556]

I admire your patience and precision in crafting unique and timelessly beautiful pieces and furniture.

[@michaellee8198]

Another detailed use of redundant materials, to fashion such a delightful piece of furniture. Much respect!

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks :)

[@erms7328]

Maestro i tuoi manufatti sono di un livello superiore grazie di condividere la tua bravura !

[@larsfrandsen2501]

Jason, you are a rare and superb artisan craftsman! I am not saying this lightly. I am the son of an old world cabinet maker. My dear father recently passed away, rest his soul. Thank you for posting these documents of your work. I know that if you have children, they will be proud of you and your work.

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much, Lars

[@Bob-ls7uf]

A pleasure watching a master craftsman at work 😀

[@Dolamite314]

Awesome job! Its not just a functioning board game. Its also a work of art. Again, great job!

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much :)

[@andrewfraser7445]

Absolute class, I am in awe every time I watch your channel. Thank you very much.

[@MattiaRaggiDrum]

This is a masterpiece! Congratulations from Italy!❤🇮🇹

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks :)

[@edwardwilliams462]

Your patience and skill is second to none. Sir I delight in your mastery at you artisan and dedication to bringing things back to life with such beauty.

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much :)

[@johnvcougar]

It's probably just the camera angles, but everytime you reach for the workpiece near those naked spinning blades, you make me wince! 😮

[@robertweldon7909]

Just like Elinor Barker, The Narnia wardrobe was my first video, I also was hooked. Pallets, junked furniture, scrap metal and recycled nails and screws, all become works of art, honestly, works of art. New furniture, drawer stacks, and things like this chess board, and all kinds of useful things are done with care and detail. None of this can be done quickly. Another superb project brought to completion. I think we are all waiting for what is next. ;-)

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much for the comments, Robert :)

[@sgt_retiredcharlie4102]

Others have said it better and more eloquently than I can however; I just want to say that your practiced hand and attention to detail are a credit to your professionalism and therefore, your very nature! You Sir, are a Master! Thank you for allowing us into your shop to witness the products of your imagination come into existence!

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much :)

[@littleshedproductions7287]

You are a true Craftsman , and certainly know your chosen trade

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much :)

[@anthonyellis987]

When I thought you'd finished, you added something else! That is the most beautiful chess board I've seen.

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much :)

[@aceallenk]

You say "thanks for watching." I say "I'm so thankful your showing." As a hobbyist, watching you it's beyond measure the amount of beautiful ideals and tidbits of skill you teach to the public. I tip my hat again and Thank You.

[@queenbee3647]

The way your mind processes the idea of positive and negative space AMAZES me, every time! Thank you. 💖

[@user-lj4ny4ig5e]

Впервые увидел и прилип к экрану до конца ролика. Отличная работа, мастерские руки плюс талантливый подход, как результат прекрасное изделие на грани произведения искусств. Супер!

[@user-dj5xx2py8t]

Искусная работа. Наслаждение смотреть за вашей работой, спасибо Мастер

[@johnnyho8765]

A pleasure to watch. No shitty background music. I love it.

[@craigtanner6916]

Magnificent project! Certainly a check mate of recycling materials, imagination and skills! Thanks again for all of your hard work bringing these projects to us!

[@leslieapplegate65]

This board is stunning. My Father collected chess sets and he would have been proud to have one this beautiful in his collection.

[@kbarr]

I liked the moment where you thought about whether you wanted the cereal box image to be visible if someone ever pulled out the felt bottom.

[@gameovr17]

Amazing video. Beautiful work. Makes me want to pick up wood work. Such a beautiful skill. I now understand why Jesus was a carpenter

[@larsfrandsen2501]

Yeah! A new video!

[@pathallock7868]

Now that sir.. is craftsmanship.....old school!!

[@mikhailmarinov8]

I once made a chess board in jail in wood shop we had. Out of scrapped pallets from India.. Very similar to this one. Dark brown and pinkish wood for squares inlay in almost black setting.. With cherry wood for frame and inside quarter circled drawers on opposite sides for storing pieces. Very gorgeous piece. I was extremely delighted in it. Had to leave it at my parents house when i moved from Canada back to Russia.. Its probably still there

[@stevenholden9520]

Yet another beautiful piece. Your attention to detail is truly inspirational. Thanks for posting Jason.

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much, Steven :)

[@Easy_Going__]

Wow! So gorgeous!! What makes you so unique is not only UpCycling, but the fine details you include. I love the brass inlays and the molding you include in your pieces. Much ❤ to 🇺🇦 from 🇺🇸

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much :)

[@lynnlamastres3424]

I love to watch you work and I Love when you wave to us at the end of the video.

[@davidsneddon2242]

Jason working my way through your back catalogue and it just gets better and better. The skill level and attention to detail is just remarkable. Your patience is endless just like your calm and reassuring demeanour is so relaxing.

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much, David :)

[@Sandra-qs1mi]

This is a piece to be treasured by many generations!

[@emeritad920]

Absolutely gorgeous. A family heirloom for generations to come!

[@gjack2008]

Everytime I watch one of these…I think how cool it would be to give something like this as a gift. And then be able to direct them to the video of how it came about.

[@mikasashigake5474]

My eyes shine to see such a beautiful work!

[@TheCraftyMagnolia]

You never cease to make me smile while watching you create. Each moment I think you are finished, you craft a new detail. The wood you used for the box was very beautiful. The whole project is amazing. ❤

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much :)

[@dannraff]

Quite honestly there is nothing you cannot turn your hands to . Simply amazing .

[@brewster2188]

Love that new sander, I will put that on my shopping list

[@TizonaAmanthia]

You reprisent the quintissential example of "fine materials don't make Products. an amateur will still make garbage whether it's pallets or vineer. Your skill, patience and experience define what can be achieved. and more than that, you show that with efficiency, and a bit of wood stain how LITTLE using scrap wood matters in the end product.

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much :)

[@tonycorleone3739]

Again, it shows you don't need fancy and expensive tools to make something beautiful, most youtube woodworking videos only see brands like Festool, Mafell, Milwaukee, it's like you can't do anything without them and you in the simplicity of your shed and DIY tools show otherwise. Dude, I don't miss any of your videos. You are clearly underrated, you deserve to have millions of subscribers.

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much, Tony :)

[@winterlorraine1545]

wow this build is amazing, there's just no words the craftsmanship is out of this world i just love it.

[@pjhalchemy]

Definitely fit for a King, Jason. Your meticulous detail with the brass kickplate and the moldings is stunning! Besides the color and grain the very cool pewter pieces are perfect size and a beautiful match. Funny my Son found my old one recently, that I made in high school shop and is going to make it free standing for him and my grandkids as I did with him many years ago. Once again you made my week and topped the bar for yourself! Happy and Grateful for the journey and memories! ~PJ

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much, PJ. I always enjoy your comments :)

[@williamsiyanko4631]

Jason love your chess Board . I have never seen anyone do what you just made .

[@TheNightFlower]

Beautiful and the little brass touches are so perfect. Well done.

[@allisonstevens7141]

I’m like a kid in a sweetie shop when you upload! 😃 Always blown away by your talent and skill Jason. Thank you for yet another amazing video and another stunning creation. ❤️

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks. I'm glad you are enjoying the videos :)

[@Chessplayer_1]

Great detail work and a really good job on the chessboard. Anyone would be proud to play a game on that.

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much :)

[@lesliewatts7537]

I would love to own something as beautiful, built with so much love, skill and care........................

[@alexalbaugh8829]

Who says you need a million dollar shop to do high end woodworking. Well done.

[@tammym110]

Every time you make something I am impressed. Your chess set is a masterpiece. Wow

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks :)

[@mandyleeson1]

Such care and attention to detail, from the brass splines to the drawer handle. You're spreading the love.

[@simongray6452]

Every video is teaching viewers practical skills, art, patience, lateral thinking, recycling - love it. Thank you man.

[@kaalen24]

Everyone is mentioning “family heirlooms”. That was my first thought seeing it finished. Handmade by a skilled craftsman. Outstanding.

[@alexisshoemaker66]

After watching all of your videos, I knew you would put a extra spin in the finished product. You did not disappoint! A beautiful piece of art work.

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much :)

[@yateleyhypnotherapy2111]

Just seeing the title of this video made my heart race! (I feel a bit embarrassed now that I’ve admitted that.😂) And I was the very first view and like. No pressure on you for it to be good, then! I know it will be beautiful!

[@cheeseisdelicious4627]

Every video is simply junk + junk = ✨MASTERPIECE✨

[@syberjamie]

You even recycle the Cocoa Krispies box! Nothing is wasted. 👍

[@nikolayshishkin8141]

Truly amazing! The work of a master turns into a piece of art!

[@hebierob]

I cannot over state how classy and well executed your builds are! Best part is up cycled material! First class chess board all the way!!

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks :)

[@kingkinvar]

The practiced hand of an older craftsman is untouchable. The attention to detail, the vision, the outcome. This is the stuff that I enjoy about these kinds of videos.

[@5b4aezmarinoscyprus71]

There's not "junk or scrap" materials there is not such a thing.... knowledge, skills and craftsmanship it's what is needed....and my friend you have all the last three one's... I may not have the the money to be you sponsor but I'am proud to be member of your group.

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much :)

[@basicbreakfast]

What a treat it is to watch a true artist do his thing. Fabulously done!

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much :)

[@scottwarner1733]

Love your work and one of a kind designs. You are always so patient in everything you build! Very relaxing to watch you work!

[@CarrieDoway]

that isn't a chessboard, that is a work of art! Beautiful.

[@carolbuzelim]

Your videos and your skills get better everytime i watch you

[@rea59]

Absolutely amazing! I know very well the amount of time and effort that goes into something like this. The re-sawing, the hand cutting and individually sizing. The chiseling to make pockets for the add-ons. Tremendous amount of effort, and you deserve all the accolades anyone on the forum gives you.

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much :)

[@Brian-41-14.racing]

You are without a doubt one of the most talented craftsmen I’ve ever seen. Every project you do has me mesmerized by the planning and execution that goes into it. And might I add the chessboard is absolutely beautiful. A stunning piece that will certainly entertain many fun and interesting games of strategy for the future owner of this masterpiece. Well done Jason.

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much, Brian. I realy appreciate your comments :)

[@AmericansWillRise]

That, is simply exquisite, to say the absolute least. I drool, over your talents, sir.

[@davidcornell9167]

Check mate Jason, checkmate. No more need be said. Thanks again!

[@davidjowett8195]

There were a number of points in the build where you could have stopped and called it good, but no, you had to go all those extra steps beyond good and aim for (and achieve) amazing! Thank you once again for sharing your amazing builds and projects. I think I speak for most when I say I'd be very pleased to have this or any other of your builds in my home. Next video you show us how you made the chess pieces? 😉

[@EpicUpCycling]

Unfortunately I can't take credit for the chess pieces. Hoping to do my own version at some point, though :)

[@martinpotter1263]

Just wanted to say how much I love your channel - the work is inspiring and the videos themselves are very peaceful to watch. Please keep up the great work!

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much. More coming soon :)

[@sarahwilson5938]

My nephew is a chess player and he would love this. So beautiful !!

[@Beatricepoppy]

My lord, you are a consummate artist. The attention to beautiful details and creativity is immeasurable. Certainly, you could charge thousands of dollars for this piece and a chess (or wood) lover would gladly pay it.

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks :)

[@sambishop3211]

Long time, no comment. Hope all is well, mate. This came at the perfect time for me. Just sat down with a nice cuppa to relax and now I’ve got the perfect thing to accompany it. 👍

[@EpicUpCycling]

Great to here from you, Sam. Hope you enjoy the video :)

[@sambishop3211]

Never a question on that, my friend. I always enjoy your videos. I prefer, like now, to watch them on my phone where I’m signed in so I can leave a quick comment/like to appease the almighty algorithm - try to get more traffic sent your way! How long have you had that drum sander? Have I just totally missed that in other videos? It’s quite possible since I’ve watched the last several of yours on the telly (hence the lack of comments) and don’t get to watch uninterrupted, ha. A beautiful piece, as always but congratulations on getting the orientation right! If you’re going to put features like the drawers which indicate which are the ranks and which are the files then you’ve got to make sure you orientate it, of course. I’ve seen several makers who don’t know chess make this mistake. Suffice it to say, your excellent video did once again prove to be very relaxing. A couple of months ago, I had a few days where I had to cut down some plate stock which were all a bit bigger than a sheet of A4 into six squares 12mm aluminium, 8mm mild steel and some 8mm stainless (only a couple of them, fortunately) all by hand. As soon as you brought the hacksaw out, I had PTSD-like flashbacks. 😅 Thankfully you followed it up with some filing, that’s like my meditation. Just last week, I helped a friend by breaking all the edges, extending holes into square slots etc on a run of small parts (150 of them!) as well as removing all the cast marks from another (very intricate) piece. Loved every second of it. Probably just as physically demanding as all the cutting especially since you move around to judge your progress (versus getting a good position and going at it for a cut). Despite that, the experiences couldn’t be further from each other. The sawing is just so tedious. Wow, rant over I suppose. Wasn’t intending to go off on a tangent like that but when do my comments not? At least my mental illness is fuelling engagement for the channel. 😂 All the best.

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks for the comments, Sam. Always good to hear from you. I've had the drum sander for quite a while but it doesn't get a lot of use. I don't think it's been in any of the other videos. I mainly use it to get really thin stock when the thicknesser can't handle it. Great for making veneers.

[@sambishop3211]

@@EpicUpCycling Makes sense. It’s definitely one of those tools I’d have if I had the space but I couldn’t justify it because I’d rarely use it either.

[@annacraft]

As a woodworker enjoying a nice game of chess (although a beginner with around 1000 Elo) this is really cool to see. Congratulations! 🙋🏻‍♀️Anna

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks Anna :)

[@frankstoverpurebloodsaltya6441]

Another beautiful job Jason!!! Brass splines a nice touch! Well done sir!!

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much, Frank :)

[@CheveeDodd]

Another stunning piece! I'm always interested in seeing how you tackle different cuts in different ways. Sometimes it seems like you choose to take the "hard way" and do things by hand, others you use the power tools. It's a great combination of traditional vs modern skills and it keeps things interesting for me.

[@EpicUpCycling]

Thanks very much :)

[@firehorsewoman414]

@Chevee Dodd - couldn’t agree more. He pulls out a hand tool to miter corners and I am like nope, off to see the miter saw for me LOL but thats why he makes works of art, and I do not.

[@wilde1909]

Please do more small intricate pieces. This piece is amazing.

[@CheveeDodd]

@@firehorsewoman414 I had the same reaction! Also when he cut the spline grooves by hand and chisel. I was mocking up a jig in my head. 🤪

[@WarpedHalo79]

That’s what I would love to know just why he did what he did by hand not by power saw etc… like, it’s better done by hand or? Or is it that he likes the variety? I’m a newbie at woodworking so would love to understand.

[@wendypeterwendywendy]

Would love to see you make your own chess pieces to go with that absolutely fantastic board. 😊

[@EpicUpCycling]

It's on my to-do list :)

[@yateleyhypnotherapy2111]

That’s what I thought too!