♟ Straight Up Chess — A Story That Surprised Me More Than I Expected

Sometimes, a seemingly small discovery sets off a chain of deeper reflections.

A few weeks ago, while browsing chess-related websites — something I regularly do as both a professional obligation and personal passion — I came across the surprising news that the well-known American brand Straight Up Chess had officially announced its closure. At first, I thought it might be a temporary promotional message or a shift in strategy. In today's digital world, such announcements often blur the line between marketing and real change.

But as I read more, I realized this was something more final. The founder, Steve Schrier, had closed down production after nearly two decades of running the business. What struck me most was how little I had previously known about the full story of this brand — despite the fact that both of us were working with a very similar idea on opposite sides of the globe.

✉️ One Email, Many Parallels

Before I reached out to Steve, I didn't know much about the company or its background. But something told me it was worth writing. Not with any agenda — simply to acknowledge the impact of his work and express respect.

To my surprise, Steve himself replied. And through a brief but meaningful exchange, I learned that Straight Up Chess was born in 2007, sparked by a very personal need. Steve had handcrafted an oversized chessboard but had nowhere to display it. That led to a simple idea: "What if I could hang it on the wall and still play?" And with that, the concept of vertical chess took root in his Colorado workshop.

His boards, unlike ours, followed a more classic rectangular layout with traditional pieces — but the essence was familiar: an original concept, handcrafted execution, and a clear love for chess.

🎯 Why Am I Sharing This?

Because stories like these deserve to be remembered.

In a world dominated by mass production, aggressive e-commerce, and throwaway trends, brands like Straight Up Chess are rare. Whether or not they end up in museums or design publications, they leave a mark on the lives of players, families, and collectors.

I don’t know if Steve’s brand will continue — and it’s not my place to assume anything. But I’m glad I took the time to write that email. And even more grateful that I can share this story here — on the site where I tell my own.

🛠 About ChessboArt

ChessboArt started as a deeply personal idea — my own take on chess and design. But from the beginning, I hoped it would grow into something more: a brand and a space for creators.

This is not a platform for mass sellers. It’s a carefully curated space, where designers, artists, and craftspeople can bring their own aesthetic into the world of chess. Like Barbara Razowska, who collaborated with us to create a resin-based ChessboArt piece. Different styles, materials, ideas — but all under a shared value system.

🔁 If You've Found Us Through Straight Up Chess

Welcome. We’re not the same, but we share something essential. A belief in craft, in thoughtful design, in chess as more than just a game.

Different hands, different geography, but perhaps the same heart.

“People thought I was a Grand Master just because I made chess boards.” — Steve Schrier

Sometimes, all it takes is doing what you love — and doing it well.