Wait but doesn't checkering just work the surface? Grain direction is way more for like, carving out the actual stock shape.

Totally get where you're coming from. Those huge cons are fun for the big reveals and crazy energy, but man, they can feel like a cattle call. Honestly have way better memories from the smaller local shows where you can actually chat with artists and not wait in line for three hours. The massive travel and hotel costs for the big ones just kill it for me sometimes. Give me a chill regional con any day.