Family Checkers

Here is an idea for a gift for any occasion and any age. A customized checkers board game with playing pieces for each member of the family. This was a really fun and easy project!

What you need:
-Unfinished round wooden disks 12 for each person (I found mine at Joann's)
-1-2 sheets of Patterned scrapbook paper
-Solid scrapbook paper
-Board (An old game board is perfect, try the thrift store)
-Paint (the number of colors depends on the number of people)
-Box (if you use an old board game the same box is perfect)
-Mod Podge
-Names and Crowns printed

Start by painting your board with any color of your choice. Depending on the original color of the board you may need 2 coats. While that is drying paint your wooden disks. I used a separate color for each family member and had it coordinate with the patterned paper. You could use one color for all of them. These will need 2-3 coats of paint.

After the board is dry place your patterned paper on to see how how much you will need. I had to use 2 pieces and match them up to not leave a noticeable seam. After you measure and cut your paper to the proper length you will Mod Podge it on. Apply Mod Podge to a section of the paper and place it on the board. Make sure it is in the right place and use a ruler or other long tool to prevent air bubbles. Repeat until it is all glued down.


Next you will need to mark your places for solid pieces. Your board will need to be 8 squares by 8 square. Here is where you need to use your math skills. You will need to figure out how long each side is and divide that by 8. So if your board is 14 x 12 each square will need to be 1.75 x 1.5. Mark the board according to its size so you know where to place each piece. Cut your solid paper to the right size. You will need 32 squares/rectangles. Glue them down using Mod Podge.

After everthing is dry apply a coat of Mod Podge to the top sealing everything.

Now to finish your disks. After they are dry cut out the printed names and crowns using scissors or a circle punch. I recommend a circle punch it makes things much easier. Apply the names on one side and the crowns on the other using the same technique as with the board. Mod Podge the paper then place on disk and use tool to get rid of air bubbles. Apply a top coat to seal.

To finish it off you can decorate your box. I used Mod Podge to apply this paper to my box.

*Variation: Use photos of the family members instead of their names to attach to the playing pieces.

Have fun with this project!!


~Rachel~