Repurpose An Old Chess Set Into A Unique Entryway Item With This TikTok DIY

If you're looking for the trendiest design ideas for your foyer, consider a bespoke DIY project guaranteed to elevate any space. And what better entryway item to craft than a custom place to hang your keys and other small items? If you're looking for something equal parts trendy and chic, you can repurpose an old chess set into a unique piece of functional wall art, its pieces used as hooks. The best thing about this project is that it frees up clutter and helps maximize space in a small entryway. 

This DIY project is actually a replica of artist Peter Marigold's "Chess Board Coat Hook" art piece, but you can replicate it with a few items you might already have in your home — a chessboard, power drill, and screws. If you don't have an old chessboard — no worries. Check out your local thrift stores. 

Although a power drill is great to use, it's not necessary. Gorilla Glue works on lots of different surfaces, wood included. You'd simply glue your chess pieces to the board instead of screwing them in. (As a pro tip, if you secure the knights facing upward, this works even better as a hook due to the shape of the horse's muzzle.) Gorilla Glue can take 24 hours to fully dry, so it's best to wait a day before using your new chessboard. You can purchase Gorilla Glue on Amazon for $10. Additionally, this glue expands up to time times the amount applied, so use the minimum.

The most secure way to carry out this hack is with screws, securing your chess piece in place. But first, decide where you'd like each piece to go, marking the corresponding square with a piece of painter's tape. Once you have your design arranged, take a power drill and create a hole through the squares where you'll be attaching chess pieces. Next, drill pilot holes in the corresponding chess pieces. These small holes create an entryway for larger holes. They also work to prevent too much stress from being placed on your wooden chess pieces, keeping them from cracking. Once you have your pilot holes, use screws to attach your chess pieces from the backside of your chessboard. 

You'll also need to attach your new chess set hook rack to the wall. The best way to do this is with two sawtooth hooks, one on either side. You can easily screw these into the back of your chessboard with nothing more than a Philips head screwdriver. Amazon sells a set of 30 sawtooth hooks for $4.

Although traditional wooden chessboards are two-tone wood grain, you can easily modify this project to match your home's aesthetic. Paint each square a different color for a more eclectic look or opt for a neutral black and white chessboard — the possibilities are endless. Once complete, you'll have a custom interior entryway that makes your home feel more welcoming, with a clear place for guests to hang their hats, scarves, keys, and more.