A skelly board, also known as a skully board, is created by drawing a specific layout of numbered boxes on a smooth street or sidewalk using chalk. This simple, yet effective, drawing forms the playing field for the classic street game of Skelly.
What is a Skelly Board?
A skelly board serves as the official playing ground for the popular street game of Skelly or Skully. It's a temporary game board that you draw directly onto a hard, flat outdoor surface, like a sidewalk or a quiet street. The design is distinctive, featuring a series of numbered boxes that dictate the flow and challenges of the game.
Materials You'll Need
Creating a skelly board requires minimal supplies, making it an accessible activity for anyone looking to play.
- Chalk: Standard sidewalk chalk is the primary tool. Choose a color that stands out clearly against the chosen pavement surface.
Step-by-Step Guide to Drawing a Skelly Board
Drawing a skelly board is a straightforward process that involves outlining specific numbered zones.
1. Choose Your Location
Select a patch of available and relatively smooth street or sidewalk. The smoother the surface, the better your chalk lines will look, and the game pieces will move more easily. Always ensure the chosen area is safe and free from heavy foot or vehicle traffic.
2. Outline the Basic Structure
Envision a large square or rectangular area that will encompass your entire skelly board. This will be your overall playing area. Within this larger space, you will define the individual numbered boxes.
3. Draw the Peripheral Boxes (1-12)
Around the outer edge of your main board outline, draw twelve individual boxes. These boxes should be relatively uniform in size. Number them consecutively from 1 through 12 along the perimeter. A common arrangement is to have numbers 1, 2, 3 along one side, 4, 5, 6 along the next, and so on, going around the board in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction.
4. Create the Center Box (13)
In the very middle of your board, draw a thirteenth box. This central box should be notably larger than the peripheral boxes, as it holds a special significance in the game. Clearly label this box with the number 13.
5. Define the "Dead Man's Zone" or "Skull"
A critical feature of the skelly board is the area surrounding the central box labeled 13. This area is known as the "dead man's zone" or "skull." Draw a distinct boundary around the box 13 to create this zone. Players often enhance this area by drawing a skull, crossbones, or other warning symbols within or around it to emphasize its dangerous nature during gameplay. This zone acts as a buffer, clearly separating the central box from the surrounding peripheral boxes.
Drawing Tips for a Great Board
- Use a Straight Edge: For neater and more precise boxes, consider using a long, straight object like a ruler, a piece of wood, or even the edge of a sturdy book to guide your chalk lines.
- Consistent Sizing: While not mandatory, trying to make the peripheral boxes similar in size helps with the board's aesthetics. Remember that the central box (13) will be larger.
- Clear Numbering: Ensure the numbers inside each box are drawn large and clearly, making them easily readable for all players during the game.
- Temporary Nature: Chalk drawings are temporary, so don't worry about perfection. Enjoy the process of creating your game board!
