Handcrafted Chess Set
by Etnodim
A game spanning centuries of history — now brought to life by the hands of a Hutsul artisan.
56 22.10.2026
Handcrafted Chess Set by Etnodim
A game spanning centuries of history — now brought to life by the hands of a Hutsul artisan.
Introducing the handcrafted chess set by Etnodim. Each piece is turned by Pan Vasyl, a master woodworker from the Kosiv region who has been working with wood since high school. The light pieces are made from sycamore, while the dark ones are carved from Carpathian walnut, which Pan Vasyl often buys directly from his neighbours in the village.
We wanted each piece to feel comfortable to hold, so a metal weight is concealed inside every piece, and the Etnodim brass logo is engraved on the base. The result is a balanced weight and a refined texture.
Handcrafted details make every set unique—no two sets are alike.
While most woodworkers today have switched to automated machinery, Pan Vasyl takes a different approach. He turns the pieces on a traditional lathe before finishing them by hand. The most intricate piece, the knight, is carved entirely by hand.
“Handwork is a work of art in itself,” says Pan Vasyl. “I enjoy carving the knight, turning each piece one by one. It gives me inspiration and strength.” With every line shaped by the artisan’s hands, no two pieces or sets in the world are exactly alike. This is what makes your chess set truly unique.
An analog game that brings people together and invites you to slow down
Designed to travel with you, the set can accompany you on mountain trips, countryside escapes, and long journeys—or become the centrepiece of an evening at home.
To make the set easy to take anywhere, we replaced heavy wooden boxes with an embroidered cotton tote featuring a chessboard. It doubles as both the playing board and a convenient carrying bag. Inside, two fabric organisers keep the light and dark pieces separate.
These handcrafted sets are available in limited quantities. Shop yours online or at Etnodim stores.
