Small Thoughts- Puzzles and Hobbies

Puzzles, crafts and other smaller thought activities!

“Village Tree” Christmas Puzzle by Cobble Hill | Puzzle Reviews

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christmas tree puzzle cobble hill

This was an unexpectedly enjoyable Christmas puzzle to do!
“Village Tree” 500 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle

Puzzle Company: Cobble Hill
Number of pieces: 500, 1000
Completed size: 26.625 x 19.25 inches
Puzzle Artist: Persis Clayton Weirs
Puzzle Score: 7.5/10 puzzle pieces!
Difficulty Level: Easy-Medium
Notes: Portrait (vertical) orientation. High-quality, hi-resolution reference poster included random cut jigsaw pieces, matte linen finish on puzzle pieces.

Where to buy “Village Tree” Jigsaw puzzle

Purchase “Village Tree” puzzle in Canada
Purchase “Village Tree” jigsaw in USA

“Village Tree” Puzzle by Cobble: Review

At first glance, I thought this puzzle might be a bit “dull”. I wasn’t sure about the colour palette or the busy green pattern of the Christmas tree featured in the town square. I was so happy to be wrong! Coloured ornaments, twinkling lights and fun outdoor scenes to make this Christmas jigsaw puzzle “sparkle”.

There were so many design elements in this puzzle to keep it interesting! varying patterns in the rows of houses, the pretty gradient of yellow/ blue skyline and lots of fun textures throughout. Several village scenes, like warmly dressed, figure-skaters, happy carolers and a horse-drawn -sleigh brought me back to fond memories of childhood and snowy holidays.

I found this to be a medium difficultly level of a puzzle. The large area of the green Christmas trees made it a little challenging. I rated it at 7.5 because of the beautiful illustration by artist Persis Clayton Weirs and of course because of the outstanding quality of Cobble Hill puzzles. It rated a bit lower because I don’t normally enjoy “portrait” puzzles- they are sometimes hard with my terrible eyesight.
The pretty Christmas colours, the lovely artwork and the quality of the puzzle made for a great Christmas puzzling experience!
I give this puzzle a 7.5/10!

Have you done “Village Tree” puzzle? Do you have a favourite Christmas puzzle you like to do over the holidays?

Totem Pole in The Mist | Cobble Hill Puzzle Review

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Totem Pole in The Mist – Jigsaw Puzzle

Puzzle Company:Cobble Hill
Number of pieces: 1000
Completed size: 26.5x 19″
Puzzle Artist: Terry Isaac
Skill level: Intermediate- challenging
Overall rating:
5 star puzzle rating

Notes:
Cobble Hill makes their puzzle pieces a random cut and has amazing thickness. The random acts make the puzzle doing experience a little more fun.
Very little puzzle dust and beautiful, clean cuts in the wooden pieces.

This is likely one of the most beautiful pieces of art I have seen in a puzzle illustration. The artist is Terry Isaac, from British Columbia, Canada. The colour palette that was used but the artist is stunning. He paints the totem Thunderbird” from well-known carver Willie Seaweed, carved in the 1930’s.
The puzzle quality, the beautiful image and the included poster all made this one of my favourite puzzles.

This is a 1000 piece puzzle and the puzzle was a joy to do from start to finish.
The quality of the puzzle pieces is comparable to Ravensburger Puzzles. The price point is fantastic and Cobble Hill is a great value. The best part about Cobble Hill puzzles is the high-quality, high-resolution poster that comes with their puzzles. Including a poster makes doing their puzzles more enjoyable! The poster is not only a great keepsake but I love to be able to use a poster instead of a heavier puzzle lid for reference.
Recommend highly!

Totem Pole in The Mist is a great puzzle to do in the fall
and autumn months!

Autumn at Saruiwa Puzzle | Adult Puzzle Reviews

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Autumn at saruiwa

I like Japanese art, particularly watercolour. One of my favourite Japanese watercolour artists is Kawase Hasui (1883–1957). I especially love his subtle earth-tone colour palette and gorgeous gradients. Kawase Hasui helped to create the shin-hanga art style of the mid-century.

Is Autumn at Saruiwa the best autumn puzzle?

Pomegranate Puzzles have a beautiful buttery soft feel to their puzzle pieces. Their puzzles pieces have a wonderful feel and that makes for a pleasant puzzle experience. The puzzle pieces are cut in a grid pattern and have a good solid fit. The quality of the inks used is outstanding. The puzzle pieces are highly pigmented and the colours are vibrant and saturated.

This puzzle is a stunning piece of art. The stunning oranges, greens and ochres inks used made this a delightful autumn/ fall puzzle! I rate this fall-themed puzzle at a solid 7.5/10.
It was a medium-difficult level mainly because of the grid shape. If you are good with colours, then the gradients will be easy for you!

What do you think makes the best fall puzzle?

Let me know in the comment section here or on my Small Thoughts Puzzle CHannel

Autumn at Saruiwa Puzzle

Purchase Autumn at Saruiwa Puzzle in USA
Purchase Autumn at Saruiwa Puzzlein Canada

Fantastic Fall Puzzle! Country Road by Buffalo Games | Puzzle Review

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Country Road Jigsaw Puzzle

Buffalo Games-Days to Remember-Country Road-500 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle

I am OBSESSED with the nostalgia-themed “Days to Remember” puzzle series from Buffalo Games. I have enjoyed doing three or four of them in the last few weeks.  I recently did a review of Bountiful Meadows Farm Puzzle. The latest puzzle that I finished from this series is “Country Road“, and indeed it is! There are so many fall and autumn images to look at in the harvest-themed puzzle! Cutes illustrations of vibrant vegetables, plenty of pumpkins, baskets of apples and oodles of jams and jellies. made this puzzle a joy to complete.  loved the bright oranges, greens and other fall colours. They made this puzzle an absolute delight to do!

Buffalo Games puzzles pieces are random cut, nice size and a good fit.
My overall puzzle experience was 7.5/10 and it was an easy-medium level of difficulty. I loved the image much more than I thought I would. The 500-piece size, with smaller pieces, is perfect. I finished it in about 4 hours.

I am OBSESSED with fall and autumn puzzles. I have a ton to do- way more puzzles than tables and time!
How about you?

What do you think makes the best fall puzzle?

Do you like fall puzzles? Do you have a favourite autumn puzzle you think I would like? Please let me know in the comments section here or on my Small Thoughts Youtube channel!

🧩 Halloween Town Puzzle | Vermont Puzzle Company | Puzzle Review

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Halloween Town Puzzle
Do you have a favourite Halloween puzzle?
I am really looking forward to doing this adorable 550 pieces Halloween Puzzle! Halloween Town is distributed by Vermont Puzzle Company. I think this might be the same company as White Mountain puzzles- they are very similar. The artist is Thomas Wood. I like this puzzle because I didn’t find the images too childish or cartoonish.

Halloween Town Puzzle

This spooky but cute puzzle features a neighbourhood scene of little trick or treaters who are all dressed up and knocking on doors. There are some very sweet Halloween outfits; I especially like the Super Mario costume and the little princess looking for treats! The images aren’t too spooky- little witches fairies and ghosts galore to look at while doing the puzzle.

What do you think makes the best puzzle for Halloween?


I have set aside several Halloween puzzles to do. Cobble Hill “Halloween Buddies” and “Manfred’s General Store” from Bits and Pieces. I also have my eye on some more folk art styles by artists like Charles Wysocki.

Buy Halloween Town Puzzle
Canada:
USA:

Wheelbarrows & Wellies | Val Goldfinch | Gibsons Puzzle Review

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Wheelbarrows & Wellies
Wheelbarrows & Wellies Puzzle Review

Wheelbarrows & Wellies Puzzle- Val Goldfinch- Gibson Games

Overall puzzle rating: 8.5/10

Puzzle Company: Gibson’s Games
Number of pieces: 1000
Completed size: 27 x 19 inches
Puzzle Artist: Val Goldfinch
Puzzle Pieces: smaller, typical “1000 piece” size.
Notes: Standard grid cut. Thicker than average puzzle pieces, reference poster included.

Prepare for a whimsical adventure with this puzzle illustrated by artist Val Goldfinch, brought to you exclusively by Gibson’s Games. Get ready to dive into a world of spring and summer wonder, where summer scene is a delightful surprise- sprinkled with Spring magic. With over 50 charming images waiting to be uncovered – from bees buzzing busily to roses blooming bashfully and lawns freshly trimmed by mischievous gnomes – this puzzle is a joy. And fear not, fellow puzzlers, for a handy reference poster is included to keep your sanity intact!
I give this a solid 8.5 out of 10 rating for its irresistible charm and the sheer joy it brought to me.

I absolutely adored this thousand-piece puzzle from Gibson’s Games. It embodies everything I cherish in a puzzle – a captivating blend of artistry and challenge. As an enthusiast of collage-type illustrations, Wheelbarrows & Wellies surpassed my expectations with its delightful imagery. Each piece of the puzzle is a miniature work of art, adorned with vibrant graphic text, exquisite watercolor renderings of blossoming flowers, whimsical depictions of hidden animals, and enchanting springtime vignettes, all this can be accredited to the puzzle artist,  Val Goldfinch.

Perfect Spring Puzzle!

I absolutely adored this  colourful 1000 piece puzzle from Gibsons Games. It embodies everything I cherish in a puzzle – a captivating blend of artistry and challenge. As an enthusiast of collage-type illustrations, Wheelbarrows & Wellies surpassed my expectations with its delightful imagery. Each piece of the puzzle is a miniature work of art, adorned with vibrant graphic text, exquisite watercolor renderings of blossoming flowers, whimsical depictions of hidden animals, and enchanting springtime vignettes.

This could be the perfect puzzle!
It took me about two weeks to complete, working at a leisurely pace. It had very little puzzle dust and the puzzle fit is tight- so a great snap! The finish on the puzzle is not glossy but no matte either, more of a satin finish. The puzzle pieces are quite thick, similar to Springbok or Galison puzzle brands.

Beautiful puzzle illustration from artist Val Goldfinch!

The artist who did the puzzle is Val Goldfinch– I have since purchased 2 more from her, Pork Pies & Puddings, which features traditional British and Scottish foods like Haggis and trifle. I am very excited to do this on! I have been trying unsuccessfully to find her Christmas Alphabet puzzle in Canada from the series as well. Let me know if you see it!!!!!

Bits and Pieces “Two Beach Belles and a Flirt” Puzzle Review

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I just posted my video review of “Two Beach Belles and a Flirt” puzzle from Bits and Pieces; available in 500 and 1000 pieces. The lovely Illustration was done by American folk artist Mary Ann Vessey.

I think this is Bits and Piece’s answer to Charles Wysocki, one of the most popular “folk art” puzzle artists. If you like him or and of the Dowdle puzzles, who will LOVE this puzzle and the artwork. I like this artist. She used oils to do her paintings and the patina of the oils gives it a beautifully textured look, with oil you will get variations in the colour you don’t see in digital designs. I hope to do more of her puzzle designs and will keep an eye out for her work.

Bits and Pieces “Two Beach Belles and a Flirt” Puzzle Review

This was typical Bits and Pieces quality, very sturdy and thick puzzle pieces. There was some puzzle dust, which I always find with this puzzle brand- am I the only one? I consistently seem to get puzzle dust that multiplies as a do the puzzle!  The pieces fit very well together which gives a good snug fit. I do like the “chubby” feel of Bits and Pieces, and they do make for a satisfying puzzle SNAP!

Have you done a Bits and Pieces puzzle yet? What do you think of the artwork on this puzzle? I love it!

What do you think is the best Summer puzzle?

Buy online:
USA: HERE
Canada: HERE

Watch Youtube Puzzle Review now:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uB0gAHcZXGQ

New Spring and Summer Puzzles! Unboxing video!

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I Just posted an unboxing video of new puzzles that arrived this morning! They were all spring and summer-themed puzzles and from Buffalo Games and Bits and Pieces. I got a nice mix of 300 and 500 piece puzzles and some perfect ones to do up North!
I like to start each season off with the same puzzle. Can you guess what is?
Do you have a favourite puzzle spring you’d like to share? I would love to hear from you! Please feel free to post in the comments section of my New Spring and Summer Puzzles! Unboxing! video/a>!

New Spring and Summer Puzzle Video!

Get puzzles from my “New Spring and Summer Puzzles! Unboxing video!” in USA

Buffalo Games – Charles Wysocki – Root Beer Break at the Butterfields: https://amzn.to/3srTaVo

Buffalo Games – Charles Wysocki – Cocoa Break at The Copperfields: https://amzn.to/3uYcY4b

Buffalo Games – Country Store Puzzle
-500 pieces: Buffalo Games – Country Store
-1000 pieces: https://amzn.to/2Q4lfFa
-2000 pieces: https://amzn.to/3uYcY4b

Buffalo Games – Charles Wysocki – The Three Sisters
300 Large Pieces: https://amzn.to/3strE9G
1000: https://amzn.to/3strE9G

Bits and Pieces Puzzles:
https://amzn.to/3srSijm

Buy my “Best Spring Puzzles” online in Canada

Charles Wysocki – Cocoa Break at The Copperfields: https://amzn.to/3mTwrAk

Charles Wysocki – Root Beer Break at the Butterfields:https://amzn.to/3gfNQBX

Buffalo Games – Charles Wysocki – The Three Sisters: https://amzn.to/2QAknrG

Bits and Pieces: Time to Talk – 500 pc Herding Cows into The Barn: https://amzn.to/3ef44sg

Bits and Pieces: Lakeside Retreat

Bits and Pieces – 500 Pieces- Two Beach Belles and a Flirt: by puzzle Artist Mary Ann Vessey: https://amzn.to/32nVOkj
I just finished this puzzle and posted my review for Two Beach Belles and a Flirt: by puzzle Artist Mary Ann Vessey.

General Store Puzzle: https://amzn.to/32lVulV

Ravensburger Wooden Puzzle Easel | Best Puzzle Easel?

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Review of Ravensburger Wooden Puzzle Easel

by my number #1 Puzzle Buddy!

Thank you PuzzleBuddy1 for your review on Ravensburger’s Puzzle Easel
Features:
-Maximum puzzle size 24″ X 20″
-Fits most 1000 piece puzzles NOTE: Landscape only
If this swivelled or could accol=modate portrait ( vertical) puzzle orientation, this would be one of the best puzzle easels.
-Nice blue felted surface
-Four different adjustable angles
-Puzzle easel made of solid wood

PuzzleBuddy1 Ravensburger Wooden Puzzle Easel Pros:

-Did help my back and shoulder pain
-Easier control of light glare
-An angled puzzle board discourages feline lounging!

Ravensburger Puzzle Easel Pro & Cons:

    -Increases neck and shoulder strain if used on too high a tabletop
    -Can be an expensive initial investment
    -Storage / takes up space even when not in use
    -Doesn’t accommodate most portrait images, depends on the size of the easel and puzzle

What do you think is the best puzzle board or puzzle easel?

DO you have this one? I would love to hear your ideas and “small thoughts” about puzzle boards and other puzzle accessories!

Buy in Canada
Buy in USA

Puzzle Review: Sleeping Beauty by Andrea Kurti | “Classic Tales” Series

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kurti andrea Sleeping Beauty puzzle

Puzzle Review: Sleeping Beauty by Andrea Kurti

Piece Count: 1000
Difficulty Level: Medium to Hard
Overall Puzzle Rating: 8.5
Grid Cut
Image: 10/10
Finished size of Sleeping Beauty 18½” x 26¾” or 47cm x 68cm

Sleeping Beauty by Andrea Puzzle. I love the “Classic Tales” series by Andrea. This one is “Sleeping Beauty” and indeed she is! The artist is Kurti Andrea, @kurti.andrea on Instagram. I love this artist and this whole series from the Romanian company D-Toys. Combined with the magic of fairy tales and puzzles, this divine! I enjoyed the whole experience, the image is the most important of the puzzle for me. The gorgeous artwork on this puzzle was a delight!

Fairy Tale Puzzle Sleeping Beauty by Andrea Kurti

This puzzle has a linen finish and the pieces are very similar to Ravensburger quality and similar if not small er size puzzle pieces. I have sausage-like fingers so I do prefer to do 500 piece puzzles or White Mountain puzzles. There was minimal glare when doing the puzzle. It is a standard grid jigsaw-type puzzle cut. The puzzle pieces fit well together.
One of my favourite colour palettes is cool blues with warm oranges. hank you for your beautiful work Andrea Kurti!

The other puzzles available in this storybook-themed series include Arabian Nights, Snow White, and The Frog Princess. They are all lovely puzzles and works of art in themselves.

You can but this puzzle on Amazon in Canada here
I have grabbed from my local puzzle place when I saw in stock, I see that they can be hard to find.

Compare D-Toys Puzzle Brand to Brands like eeBoo, Ravensburger and more on Puzzle Brand Comparison Chart Page.

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