Tree Puzzle 
by Guest Writer Roberta Shore

We invite you to read Roberta Shore's review on the following jigsaw puzzle. Since she has discovered the advantages of jigsaw puzzling, she has reviewed/journaled several that will be available on this website.  

You may like this Round Tree image wood puzzle Amazon link

TREE Jigsaw Puzzle Wapag Ribbon Cut 300 Wooden Pieces Finished Dimensions: 15” x 20.5”

Tree Puzzle - Roberta's Review

Roberta-Profile
TREE Jigsaw Puzzle Wapag Ribbon Cut 300 Wooden Pieces Finished Dimensions: 15” x 20.5”

TREE Jigsaw Puzzle

Wapag

Ribbon Cut

300 Wooden Pieces
Finished Dimensions: 15” x 20.5”

My Confident Newbie Difficulty Rating:  Fairly Easy

“Hmmm . . . a 300 piece wooden puzzle for under $10. I need to see what that’s all about!” Yes, the picture is glued to wooden pieces. After that it’s a traditional puzzle. The pieces are somewhat thicker than cardboard puzzle pieces, in this case all cut the same - 2 in / 2 out shape.

Quality: Excellent! The sturdy box is relatively small, the full illustration is on the top. Inside the pieces are in a drawstring mesh bag. A puzzle size poster is included. There is a message on one side of the box that was different from any box info I had ever seen: “Specification colors and contents may vary from illustration, please in kind prevail.” Not to worry. The contents matched the illustration, color match pictures to pieces was perfect, none of the slightly glossy, very sturdy pieces were damaged, and none were missing. Piece fit was great. * (see * in Construction)

Getting started: Find edge pieces and sort by color. Only 300 pieces, I did more than sort by color. I sorted the left hand landscape and rocky area, the right hand landscape and rocky area, the sky, the water, the tree trunk and branches, and the tree foliage. I built the frame and carried on . . .

Construction: It’s fun to do a 300 piece puzzle and feel accomplished in a short amount of time. This one had no real issues along the way. I did have to reference the poster a few times, especially for some of the tree foliage. (Hence: fairly easy) Last to be pieced were some sky pieces, and I realized there was probably a false fit on the top edge of the frame. I removed those pieces that had no picture parts, filled in the sky pieces, and refit the edge pieces. Also, it was necessary to really push the pieces into place. *In the end it was pick up off the table solid. So much so you could frame it without tape or glue. Just look at this bright, colorful, even striking image. It appears to be a painting. $10 wall art — one can’t get better than that! Besides, getting it apart actually seems a chore. I slid mine under a guest room bed for now.

Final thoughts: I was shopping for 300 / 500 piece puzzles to have in my stash at that place that sounds like a South American River, and came across this one. They are also available in a few retail chain department stores. I am impressed by the quality. No, it is not a wooden puzzle in the sense of thick, hand cut, whimsical pieces, but these wooden pieces are still pretty neat.

My grades: Quality A+. Fun Factor A+

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About: Wood Cut vs. Cardboard Jigsaw Puzzles

Exploring the Differences

Jigsaw puzzles are a beloved pastime, offering hours of entertainment and relaxation. While cardboard puzzles have been the traditional choice for many years, wood cut puzzles have gained popularity in recent times. In this article, we'll delve into the differences between assembling a wood cut jigsaw puzzle and a cardboard jigsaw puzzle, with a particular focus on the modern-day laser scroll cutting machines used in wood cut puzzles and their role in creating accurate whimsies.

1. Materials and Durability

The most apparent difference between wood cut and cardboard jigsaw puzzles lies in the materials used. Cardboard puzzles are crafted using thick, sturdy cardboard layers, while wood cut puzzles are made from high-quality wood, often sourced sustainably. The use of wood imparts a distinct tactile and visual appeal to the puzzle pieces, providing a unique and durable puzzle experience.

2. Precision and Interlocking Mechanism

Wood cut puzzles are known for their precise cuts and interlocking mechanisms. In the past, these puzzles were hand-cut, requiring skilled artisans to carefully shape each piece. However, with advancements in technology, modern-day wood cut puzzles are crafted using laser scroll cutting machines. These machines use precise laser technology to cut intricate shapes, ensuring a snug fit between the puzzle pieces. This precision enhances the overall puzzle-solving experience and allows for seamless assembly.

3. Whimsical and Irregular Pieces

One of the standout features of wood cut puzzles is the inclusion of whimsical or irregular puzzle pieces. Whimsies are specially shaped puzzle pieces that are not part of the traditional puzzle image. They can take various forms, including animals, objects, or unique designs. Laser scroll cutting machines are instrumental in creating these whimsies with accuracy and intricacy, adding an element of surprise and delight to the puzzle-solving process.

4. Artistic Appeal and Collectibility

Wood cut puzzles are often chosen for their artistic appeal and collectible nature. Many wood cut puzzle manufacturers collaborate with renowned artists to create exquisite puzzle images. The combination of high-quality wood, precise cutting, and stunning artwork elevates the overall aesthetic and makes wood cut puzzles highly sought after by puzzle enthusiasts and collectors.

5. Puzzle Size and Complexity

Wood cut puzzles are available in a range of sizes and complexity levels. Smaller puzzles with fewer pieces are suitable for beginners or those seeking a quicker puzzle-solving experience, while larger puzzles with thousands of pieces offer a more challenging endeavor. The use of laser scroll cutting machines ensures that even intricate and complex designs can be accurately reproduced, allowing for a seamless assembly regardless of the puzzle's size or difficulty level.

6. Environmental Considerations

Wood cut puzzles often boast eco-friendly credentials due to the sustainable sourcing of wood materials. Many manufacturers prioritize using wood from responsibly managed forests or utilize recycled wood, making wood cut puzzles a conscious choice for environmentally conscious puzzlers.

Embrace the Unique Experience

Whether you choose a wood cut or a cardboard jigsaw puzzle, both offer their own unique experience and appeal. Wood cut puzzles impress with their tactile feel, precision, and whimsical pieces, while cardboard puzzles provide affordability and a wide variety of designs. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preferences and the type of puzzle experience you seek.

So, whether you're captivated by the elegance of wood cut puzzles or prefer the classic charm of cardboard puzzles, there's no shortage of delightful options to explore. Embrace the differences and enjoy the wonderful world of jigsaw puzzling, one piece at a time!

(ChatGPT, personal communication, June 20, 2023)