We are sometimes asked to give suggestions on what type of Stave Puzzle to give as a gift. Whether it is for the winter holidays, birthday or other special occasion, your puzzling friend or loved one will no doubt appreciate any Stave that they receive. That being said, here are 3 suggestions to help you … Continued
We just got back from the 12th Puzzle Parley and had an amazing time. For those not familiar with the Parley, it is held every other year and is a weekend of non-stop “everything wooden puzzle”; cutting workshops, informational panels, puzzle history talks, puzzle sales and,of course, puzzling! This year, as in previous years, it … Continued
Jigthings is a company that sells a range of products for puzzlers. They have puzzle tables, puzzles cases, frames and other storage items to keep puzzles safe and secure. Given the much larger size of the cardboard puzzle market, the products seem primarily designed for that market. However, as a “wood puzzler” I was looking … Continued
Chances are if you have been collecting old wood puzzles, you have inevitably run across puzzles that are missing pieces, broken knobs or, as we have seen on more than one occasion, pieces that look like a family pet had managed to get ahold and proceed to tear up. It is especially disheartening when you … Continued
Over the years we have done far too many puzzles to count. Along the way we have learned some tips and tricks that have helped when we get stuck. Here are a few items that may help you if you are suffering “puzzle block”. 1)”Break Down the Problem” Sometimes you may come across a puzzle … Continued
If you have someone in your life you would like to give a collectible or vintage wood puzzle to as a gift, but don’t have the faintest idea of how to select one or what they may like we have put together a little guide to help you. However, keep in mind that, like art, … Continued
This is a follow-up blog to an earlier post about figuring out values for antique wooden puzzles. If you have not read that post, I suggest reading it first as it will give you some background regarding valuations. In summary, a lot of people are surprised to learn that the “old puzzle” they found in … Continued
When I first introduce someone to Par Puzzles I always get the same reaction, amazement at the quality and intricacies of the pieces. Who isn’t? To this day there is a always a sense of wonderment when first opening those black boxes to see what puzzle holds your next challenge. Once the initial daze passes, … Continued
Recently we were assembling a fairly interesting Pastime Puzzle that is probably from the 1930s or 1940s. It was a pretty typical Pastime, with the icon white box and about 500 pieces inside. It was a bit unusual in that included the original description that appeared to come from the outside wrapping, which was a … Continued
Since last month I wrote a poem about Par Puzzles, it was now time to attempt to write one about Stave. Again, my apologies to all poets…enjoy. Tricks, Teasers and Trads They all are tough Messing with your brain Leaving you in a huff Tricks are the hardest Does this piece fit Myriad solutions For … Continued