Shopping for someone who loves chess? Skip the plastic travel set. A handmade olive wood chess set is a Christmas gift they will actually keep out on the table, play with for years, and remember who gave it to them.
Every ArtisRaw set is carved by hand in Tunisia from olive wood, so the grain, color and shape are different on every board. Below are our favorite holiday picks, how to choose the right one, and a few tips so it arrives in time.
Why olive wood chess sets make great Christmas gifts
- One of a kind — olive wood grain is never the same twice, so nobody else will have the exact same board.
- A centerpiece, not a box in a closet — natural wood looks like home décor between games.
- Made to last — dense, durable wood that ages beautifully with simple care.
- Handmade — crafted by artisans in Tunisia, not mass-produced.
Our top holiday picks for chess lovers
1. Live Edge Olive Wood Chess Set — the statement gift
Cut from a single slab of olive wood, with the natural bark edge kept on purpose. No two boards share the same outline, which makes it our most "wow" gift to unwrap. It comes in four sizes (6.7", 9.4", 11.8" and 15.7"), from a compact desk set to a large display board.
See the Live Edge Olive Wood Chess Set
2. Personalized Live Edge Chess Set — for a gift that feels truly theirs
The same rustic live-edge look, with the option to add personalization text when you order. A name, a date or a short message turns a beautiful set into a keepsake.
See the Personalized Live Edge Chess Set
3. Olive Wood Chess Set with Drawer — for the tidy player
An inlaid board with a built-in drawer, so the pieces are always stored with the board. Great for families and anyone who plays often.
4. Folding Chess Set with Storage — for travel and small spaces
Folds closed with the pieces inside. A smart pick for students, commuters or anyone who likes to bring a game along.
5. Luxury Wood Chess Table — the big family gift
A full chess table with wooden pieces, for the serious player or a shared family gift that becomes part of the living room.
How to choose the right size
A desk or shelf piece and an easy add-on gift. Best for display or casual games.
The sweet spot for most people: comfortable to play on and still easy to store.
A coffee-table centerpiece for regular players who want a real presence on the table.
Think about where it will live: a desk, a shelf, or the middle of the coffee table.
Who it's perfect for
- Dad or Grandpa — a handsome board for weekend games with the family.
- Your partner — personalize it with a name or date for a gift with meaning.
- The chess club friend — a set that stands out from the usual vinyl boards.
- A new homeowner — a housewarming gift that doubles as décor.
Christmas tip: Each set is handmade and ships from Tunisia, so order early in December to give it time to arrive. Shipping to the US is free, import duties are paid by us, and you have 14 days to return it. See shipping details for current delivery times.
Caring for an olive wood chess set
Keep it away from direct heat and standing water, wipe it with a dry or slightly damp cloth, and rub in a little food-safe oil now and then to keep the grain rich. Read our full olive wood care guide.
Find the right chess set for Christmas
Looking for more ideas? See our guide to the best handmade olive wood chess sets for gifting or browse the full collection.
