(FAQ) Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our handmade African products, shipping, custom orders, materials and visiting Things From Africa at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town.
Where can I buy handcrafted wooden chess sets in South Africa?▾
You can browse Things From Africa’s handcrafted wooden chess sets online or visit our showroom at Shop 831, The Watershed, 17 Dock Rd, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town.
What distinguishes a handcrafted wooden chess set?▾
Handcrafted sets reflect the artisan’s carving, finishing and design choices. Natural variations in wood grain and colour give each set its own character. When choosing one, look at the finish, board size, piece design and whether the set includes all 32 pieces.
Are your chess sets handmade?▾
Yes. Every chess set is individually handcrafted by skilled African artisans using traditional techniques. No two sets are exactly the same.
Where are your chess sets made?▾
Our chess sets are made by artisans across Southern Africa and carefully finished to ensure quality, durability, and cultural authenticity.
What materials are your chess sets made from?▾
Our chess sets are handcrafted using premium hardwoods sourced responsibly across Southern Africa. Depending on the design and collection, we work with African blackwood, mahogany, ebony, and beechwood. Each piece is carefully carved, sanded, and hand-finished to highlight the natural beauty, strength, and character of the wood.
Do you offer different sizes?▾
Yes. We offer different sizes, including smaller and larger chess sets. Prices vary depending on size and design.
Do you ship locally and internationally?▾
Yes. Things From Africa ships worldwide from Cape Town, South Africa, using reliable courier partners.
What are your shipping costs and delivery times?▾
Shipping costs depend on the destination, order size, and whether an item is ready-made, custom or made-to-order. Exact costs are calculated at checkout or confirmed before dispatch for custom orders. Estimated delivery is 2–5 business days within South Africa and 5–10 business days internationally, depending on destination and customs clearance. These are estimates, not guarantees. Ready-made items are usually processed within 2–5 business days; custom or made-to-order items may need extra production time, which we’ll communicate before production begins. International customers are responsible for any customs duties, VAT, import taxes and clearance fees.
Can I order a custom chess set?▾
Yes. We accept custom chess orders. Please contact us with your requirements, and we will be happy to assist.
How much is a wooden chess set worth?▾
There’s no single price for a wooden chess set. It depends on the design, size, materials and level of craftsmanship. Our chess sets are individually handcrafted, and prices vary by design and size. Check the product listing for the current price, or contact us if you’re interested in a custom set.
How can I tell if a chess set is valuable?▾
Look at the quality of the carving and finish, the materials, the design, the set’s condition and whether all the pieces are included. Handcrafted details and the maker’s story can matter too. Our sets are made by skilled African artisans and carefully carved, sanded and hand-finished. The hardwoods used vary by design and collection.
Did chess originate in Africa?▾
Chess is generally traced to Chaturanga, an early game from India, rather than Africa. Our chess sets celebrate the skill and creativity of African artisans through distinctive handcrafted designs.
What makes a good-quality wooden chess set?▾
A good set is made from durable, high-quality wood and carefully crafted, with pieces that feel good to handle and a smooth, lasting finish. Our chess sets use premium hardwoods, including African blackwood, mahogany, ebony and beechwood, depending on the design. Each piece is carefully carved, sanded and hand-finished to bring out the character of the wood.
How should I care for my wooden chess set?▾
Dust it with a soft, dry cloth and keep it away from prolonged direct sunlight, heat and moisture. Avoid soaking the wood or using harsh cleaners. Woods and finishes can vary by design, so contact us if you need care advice for your specific set.
What are your showroom hours?▾
Visit us at The Watershed, Shop 831, 17 Dock Rd, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town. We’re open every day from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm.
What is your return and refund policy?▾
Eligible items may be returned within 30 days of delivery if unused, in the same condition, with tags, original packaging and proof of purchase.
Email info@thingsfromafrica.co before sending anything back; if approved, we’ll provide return instructions and the return address.
Return shipping is your responsibility unless the item is defective, damaged or incorrect. Custom or personalised items are non-returnable unless damaged, defective, or not as approved or described; gift cards and sale or clearance items are also non-returnable.
For eligible EU and UK orders, a 14-day cooling-off period applies, excluding custom or personalised items. To exchange an item, request a return and place a new order once accepted.
Approved refunds are sent to the original payment method within 10 business days, though banks may take longer.
Small natural variations in wood grain, colour, carving, finish or dimensions are part of handmade products and are not considered defects.
