Custom Orders & Engraving
Create a chess set that’s truly yours
At Things From Africa, our chessboards and pieces are handcrafted by skilled African artisans. Choose custom details to create a set that reflects your style or celebrates a special occasion.
Engraving options
Make your board meaningful with engraving such as:
- Your name
- A loved one’s name
- A special date, such as a wedding, birthday or anniversary
- Initials
- A short message
- A company or brand name
Engraving is carefully completed by hand or machine on the wood surface.
Choose your chess-piece style
Big Five animal pieces
Inspired by Africa’s iconic animals: lion, elephant, rhino, leopard and buffalo.
Custom pawn options include hippo, impala, buffalo and elephant.
Human figure pieces
Hand-carved African people, warriors, cultural icons and figures in traditional attire, with detailed, distinctive designs.
Classic Staunton-style pieces
A traditional, familiar style for customers who prefer a classic look.
Mix and match
Combine styles to create a set that suits you. Options include:
- Big Five pieces with standard pawns
- Human figures with Big Five pawns
- A standard set with an engraved board
- A custom combination of pieces and board
Choose your board
Board options include:
- Foldable boards with inner storage
- Flat, one-piece display boards
- Big Five engraved boards
- Board only, without pieces
- Pieces only, without a board
- Personalised boards
Boards can be engraved with your name, a message or other text.
Who are custom orders for?
Custom chess sets make thoughtful gifts for weddings, anniversaries and birthdays. They’re also suited to corporate gifting and branding, collectors, chess lovers and home décor displays.
How custom orders work
We’ll guide you through the process:
- Contact us by WhatsApp or email.
- Tell us what you’d like to customise.
- We confirm the design and price with you.
- Our artisans begin handcrafting your set.
- Progress photos or videos can be shared if needed.
- We arrange delivery worldwide.
Contact us about a custom order
For custom chess orders, bulk purchases or general enquiries, get in touch:
WhatsApp: +27 78 383 3543
Email: info@thingsfromafrica.co
Visit us: Shop 831, Watershed, 17 Dock Rd, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, 8001
