The Bottom Line
Pros
- Adorable illustration!
- Scalloped border make for more of a challenge.
- Velvet-backed pieces interlock well and whimsy shapes are a nice addition.
- Uses non-toxic, vegetable-based inks
- Environmentally-friendly - made from 90% recycled materials
Cons
- Be aware the first time you dump out the pieces - sawdust!
- Pieces are not that rugged (not for young, less-than-delicate, fingers)
Description
- Scalloped border increases difficulty level
- Great image! Adorable snowmen, kittens, mittens and cats.
- Whimsy pieces add interest and are reminiscent of classic jigsaw puzzles.
- Velvet-backed pieces are made from 90% recycled materials and vegetable-based inks.
- Ideal for a weekend project.
Guide Review - Holiday Treasures Jigsaw Puzzle
This is the first jigsaw puzzle I have seen with velvet-backed pieces. I asked the company contact for the reasoning behind this and was told that they simply have a more luxurious feel. On a more practical note, my test solver found that the pieces don't slide around as much on a smooth table top which was helpful since the whimsy pieces (custom-cut pieces in the shape of familiar objects) don't necessarily interlock as tightly as standard shaped pieces. The puzzle also has a tricky, scalloped border which makes for more of a challenge. Featuring wonderful artwork by Susan Winget, it took one adult approximately eight hours to solve.
This puzzle is part of the Holiday Treasures series and when complete, it measures 20" x 16". Unlike most puzzles, this jigsaw has a scalloped border so it was a challenge to identify the edge pieces. Therefore, quickly isolating straight-edged border pieces, a common first step for solvers, was not an option. As mentioned, it also includes 'whimsy' pieces cut in the shape of animals or common objects for added interest. My test solver found that it was best to begin this jigsaw puzzle by sorting for color to assemble the larger components then, in the later stages of solving, identify pieces based on shape. Make sure you have a large enough surface to accommodate all the pieces turned face up.
This puzzle has great play value at a reasonable price.
The puzzle is made with 90% recycled materials and printed with vegetable-based, non-toxic inks.
Rated for ages 13 and up.
Disclosure: Review samples were provided by the manufacturer. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.
