Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently asked questions
Practical answers about pieces, sizing, materials, delivery and returns.
What does a chess set contain?
A complete set contains 32 pieces (16 per side):
- 1 king, 1 queen
- 2 rooks, 2 knights, 2 bishops
- 8 pawns
Many quality sets include extra queens for pawn promotion. Some sets also include a storage box or case.
Boards are often sold separately unless the product listing states it is a full set.
What makes a good chess set?
A good set matches how you’ll use it.
- For regular play: weighted pieces, felted bases, and a stable board
- For display: material and finish matter more than day-to-day handling
- For travel: compact pieces and a folding board or travel case
What does Staunton mean?
Staunton refers to the classic piece design that became the worldwide standard for competitive play.
What is a standard size chess board?
Common square sizes for adult play are roughly 50–60 mm. A reliable rule is to match the king’s base diameter to around 70–80% of the square width.
- 50 mm squares: often suits a 3.5–3.75 inch king (depending on base)
- 55 mm squares: often suits a 3.75–4 inch king
- 60 mm squares: often suits a 4 inch king with a broader base
A chessboard is always 8 × 8 (64 squares). From White’s side, the bottom-right corner square is light.
Are your products stocked in the UK?
Yes. Products marked in stock are held in inventory and available for dispatch.
Are my card details safe when ordering?
Payments are processed by PCI-compliant payment providers. We do not store your full card details on our servers.
Can I return my order if it’s not right for me?
Yes. We offer a 30-day returns policy. Items should be returned in original condition and packaging where possible.
Where are your chess sets made?
Our products are made across specialist workshops in Italy, Germany, Spain, Poland, India and the United Kingdom.
Which courier do you use?
We currently use Parcelforce and FedEx, depending on destination and parcel size.
Why can wood colour and grain vary?
Wood is natural. Grain pattern and shade vary by piece and batch. Small variations are normal and expected with handcrafted products.