Handmade Gift Idea: Make a Classic Tic-Tac-Toe Board

With family gathered for holiday festivities, it's the perfect time to pull out board games. This homemade wood tic-tac-toe set is fun for all ages and makes a thoughtful handmade gift.

Handmade Board Game

Wood Tic-Tac-Toe Gift Set

With family gathered for the holiday festivities, it's the perfect time to pull out board games. This homemade wood tic-tac-toe set would make a great addition and could become a holiday tradition.

Photo by: Marian Parsons

Marian Parsons

Materials Needed:

rectangular, raw edged wood piece (to serve as the game board)
(8-10) 2"- 3" wood slices
ruler
pencil
craft knife
wood stain
oil wood finish
1/2" flat natural bristle brush
2"- 3"chip brush
lint-free cloth

Draw and Cut Tic-Tac-Toe Board

Use a ruler and pencil to draw a tic-tac-toe board on the rectangular wood slice (Image 1). A clear quilting ruler is perfect for getting 90-degree angles and even spacing. Use craft knife to cut outline of 1/2" thick lines along drawn tic-tac-toe board (Image 2). This cut edge will prevent wood stain from seeping into the grain, blurring the lines of the board.

Stain Lines on Board

Use 1/2" natural bristle brush to apply wood stain inside cut lines to make  tic-tac-toe board (Image 1). Also, use stain and brush to draw X's and O's onto wood slices (Image 2). Since those are "end grain," they do not need to be cut prior to painting with stain. Tip: Think beyond X's and O's for a custom gift and use initials, emblems, logos, etc. to represent each team.

Oil Board and Pieces

Allow stain to fully dry before moving to this step. With 2"- 3"chip brush, apply a wood oil to seal and bring out the warmth of the wood (Image 1). Apply to both sides of game pieces and board. Wipe away excess oil with a lint-free cloth. Allow oil to dry fully before wrapping or playing with the completed game (Image 2).

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