Design of the Week: Chess Voyage

By on June 9th, 2025 in Design, news

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Chess Voyage travel set [Source: Printables]

This week’s selection is the Chess Voyage portable chess set by Printables contributor ERAVIA.

ERAVIA is a prolific 3D designer that has contributed multiple models to Printables, including a chess set and a travel backgammon set. Here we are looking at their travel chess set, which has some interesting properties.

As a travel set, the pieces pack up inside the foldable board, making it easy to transport.

Chess Voyage travel set [Source: Printables]

There are multiple versions of the set provided in this project. For example, there are two styles of pieces: classic and modern. There are also checker pieces that can be used with the same board system. It is also possible to print a magnetic version where the pieces magnetically attach to the playing surface.

Chess Voyage travel set with modern design pieces [Source: Printables]

There are four variations of the playing board: large, standard, mini and braille. The braille version is of most interest. ERAVIA explains what makes a braille set:

  • Board Navigation: Dark squares are raised 4mm higher than light squares, ensuring clear tactile distinction.
  • Piece Recognition: Chess pieces have a Staunton-like design, ensuring easy recognition and differentiation.
  • Side Distinction: Dark pieces feature slight spikes on top, allowing them to be distinguished from light pieces.
  • Piece Stability: A peg-and-hole system secures each piece in place, preventing accidental movement and ensuring a steady game.

In all there are 156 model files in this incredible design project. Clearly ERAVIA has spent considerable time developing all the variations of this set.

If you’re interested in chess or are visually impaired, this might be an interesting project to print.

Via Printables

By Kerry Stevenson

Kerry Stevenson, aka "General Fabb" has written over 8,000 stories on 3D printing at Fabbaloo since he launched the venture in 2007, with an intention to promote and grow the incredible technology of 3D printing across the world. So far, it seems to be working!