Christmas Balls Jigsaw Puzzle 

Good thing this Christmas Balls jigsaw puzzle is 500 pieces, cause I am not sure if I could've mastered 1000 pieces. 

That said, look at this gorgeous combination of Christmas Balls arranged strategically to portray one of the most beautiful puzzle images I have seen. I totally love it! 

Brand: Cobble Hill Puzzle Company

Title: Christmas Balls

Size: 26.625x19.25 

Pieces: 500 pieces
Brand: Cobble Hill Puzzle Company

Title: Christmas Balls jigsaw puzzle

Size: 26.625x19.25 

Pieces: 500 pieces

Brand: Cobble Hill Puzzle Company

Title: Christmas Balls jigsaw puzzle

Size: 26.625x19.25 

Pieces: 500 pieces

Christmas Balls jigsaw puzzle Review

Overall Experience:  Great

Cut Quality:  Awesome

Board Quality: firm

Shape Cut: random

Image Quality: great

Hardest Area: The dark balls

Puzzle Dust? minimal

Finish Quality: Smooth matte

Box Quality: Great 

Sealed Pieces Inside Box: yes

Was this purchased new? no

Price: Picked for review

Recommend Level: highly

Time: 7 hours

Christmas Balls jigsaw puzzle Assembly.....

I did not do my usual sorting routine with this one. I sorted the colors as best I could into piles then did an additional color sort as I laid all the pieces out onto the foam board. The border went together really well.

Brand: Cobble Hill Puzzle Company

Title: Christmas Balls jigsaw puzzle

Size: 26.625x19.25 

Pieces: 500 pieces
Brand: Cobble Hill Puzzle Company

Title: Christmas Balls jigsaw puzzle

Size: 26.625x19.25 

Pieces: 500 pieces
Brand: Cobble Hill Puzzle Company

Title: Christmas Balls jigsaw puzzle

Size: 26.625x19.25 

Pieces: 500 pieces
Brand: Cobble Hill Puzzle Company

Title: Christmas Balls jigsaw puzzle

Size: 26.625x19.25 

Pieces: 500 pieces

I sensed this Christmas Balls jigsaw puzzle was going to be a bit of a trickster due to the darkish colors but the beauty of the image was irresistible so that triggered the challenge knowing the reward of completion would be worth it. Being 500 pieces also made it acceptable. 

As you can see in the image below, I started with the lightest colors and the most distinctest patterns on the balls. The reds/greens were kinda tricky especially the reds/greens with patterns. But the darkness behind the balls were fairly testy. 

Brand: Cobble Hill Puzzle Company

Title: Christmas Balls jigsaw puzzle

Size: 26.625x19.25 

Pieces: 500 pieces

I love an image that shares the twinkle of Christmas and clearly this one has captured that essence as you can see in these close up photos below. The photography enhancement of this image is impeccable. Super well done job on the Christmas Balls jigsaw puzzle by Cobble Hill Puzzle Company

Brand: Cobble Hill Puzzle Company

Title: Christmas Balls jigsaw puzzle

Size: 26.625x19.25 

Pieces: 500 pieces
Brand: Cobble Hill Puzzle Company

Title: Christmas Balls jigsaw puzzle

Size: 26.625x19.25 

Pieces: 500 pieces
Brand: Cobble Hill Puzzle Company

Title: Christmas Balls jigsaw puzzle

Size: 26.625x19.25 

Pieces: 500 pieces
Brand: Cobble Hill Puzzle Company

Title: Christmas Balls jigsaw puzzle

Size: 26.625x19.25 

Pieces: 500 pieces

Christmas balls jigsaw puzzle Comments

I picked this one for review when it came out in early 2018 knowing I would be saving it for this Christmas. I knew it was going to be testy and I was correct.

This image is known as a T.O.P. which means 'Truly Original Photo' in house at Cobble Hill Puzzle Company. They have produced many of their own images for jigsaw puzzles.

So this image also comes in 1000 pieces IF you are brave enough to take it on. I have seen it assembled last Christmas and it is magnificent.  Click the image to the right for the 1000 piece Christmas Balls jigsaw puzzle.


About Cobble Hill Jigsaw Puzzles

Cobble Hill is a Canadian company that specializes in producing high-quality jigsaw puzzles for adults. The company has gained a reputation for producing visually appealing and challenging puzzles that are made from durable and eco-friendly materials.

One of the standout features of Cobble Hill puzzles is their unique designs. The company collaborates with artists from around the world to create puzzles that are not only challenging but also visually stunning. They have puzzles featuring iconic artworks such as Gustav "Klimt" puzzle and festive designs like  "The Village Tree". They also offer themed puzzles such as animals, landscapes, and nostalgia.

Cobble Hill puzzles are made from high-quality, recycled materials that are durable and environmentally friendly. The puzzle pieces are thick and sturdy, making them easy to handle and assemble. Additionally, the pieces fit together smoothly and accurately, ensuring that the finished puzzle looks seamless and well-crafted.

Another notable feature of Cobble Hill puzzles is their commitment to sustainability. The company uses recycled and biodegradable materials in their puzzle production, and they also use vegetable-based inks in their printing process. Additionally, they donate puzzles to nursing homes and Alzheimer's facilities to help individuals with cognitive challenges.

In terms of pricing, Cobble Hill puzzles are generally affordable, with prices ranging from $15 to $25 for most designs. While they may be slightly more expensive than some other brands, the high-quality materials and unique designs justify the cost.

Cobble Hill also has a strong social media presence and engages with its audience through various platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. They regularly post images of new puzzles, behind-the-scenes glimpses of their puzzle-making process, and share puzzles completed by their followers. Their social media strategy has helped them to build a loyal following of puzzle enthusiasts and has helped them to stay relevant in a competitive market.

One area where Cobble Hill could improve is their range of puzzle sizes. While they offer a decent range of sizes, they do not currently offer puzzles with more than 2000 pieces, which may be a drawback for experienced puzzlers looking for a greater challenge.

In conclusion, Cobble Hill is a brand of jigsaw puzzles that offers high-quality, visually stunning, and eco-friendly puzzles that are enjoyed by puzzle enthusiasts of all skill levels. Their unique designs, commitment to sustainability, and engagement on social media have helped them to stand out in a crowded market and build a loyal following. While they could expand their range of puzzle sizes, overall, Cobble Hill puzzles are a great choice for anyone looking for a fun and challenging puzzle-solving experience.

(ChatGPT, personal communication, June 20, 2023) 


About: Mastering the Art of Choosing the Right Jigsaw Puzzle

Tips to Avoid Buying Overwhelmingly Difficult Images

Jigsaw puzzles offer a delightful challenge, but there are times when the level of difficulty can be overwhelming. Whether you're a seasoned puzzler or a novice looking for an enjoyable experience, it's important to choose the right puzzle image that matches your skill level and personal preferences. In this article, we'll explore the world of difficult jigsaw puzzles and provide you with a list of tips to help you avoid buying images that might leave you feeling frustrated.

1. Know Your Skill Level

Understanding your own puzzle-solving skills is key when selecting a jigsaw puzzle. Be honest with yourself about your experience and comfort level. If you're a beginner, it's best to start with puzzles that have a lower piece count and simpler imagery. As you gain confidence and experience, you can gradually challenge yourself with more complex puzzles.

2. Consider the Piece Count

The number of puzzle pieces directly affects the difficulty level. Larger piece counts, such as 1,000 pieces or more, can be more time-consuming and mentally demanding. If you prefer a less challenging experience, opt for puzzles with smaller piece counts, such as 500 pieces or even fewer.

3. Analyze the Imagery

Before purchasing a puzzle, carefully examine the image. Complex and intricate designs, such as landscapes with numerous details or abstract patterns, tend to be more challenging. If you're looking for a less daunting puzzle, choose images with clearly defined sections, distinct colors, or simpler motifs.

4. Read Product Descriptions and Reviews

Take the time to read product descriptions and reviews. Puzzle manufacturers often provide information about the level of difficulty, which can help you make an informed decision. Additionally, reading reviews from other puzzlers can give you insights into the puzzle's complexity and whether it aligns with your preferences.

5. Look for Beginner-Friendly Collections

Many puzzle companies offer collections specifically designed for beginners. These collections often feature puzzles with larger pieces, simpler imagery, or even hints and guidance to assist you along the way. Exploring these beginner-friendly options can be a great way to ease into the world of jigsaw puzzles.

6. Seek Variety in Piece Shapes

Some puzzles feature unique piece shapes that can add an extra layer of difficulty. If you're looking for a more accessible experience, consider puzzles with standard grid-shaped pieces. However, if you enjoy a challenge, look for puzzles with irregular or whimsical piece shapes, as they can make the assembly process more complex and engaging.

7. Check for Puzzle-Specific Features

Certain puzzle manufacturers offer features to indicate the level of difficulty. For example, some puzzles may have a "difficulty rating" on the packaging or specify whether they are suitable for beginners, intermediate puzzlers, or advanced enthusiasts. These indicators can be valuable in making an informed decision.

8. Consider Collaborations with Artists

Many jigsaw puzzle companies collaborate with renowned artists, resulting in a wide range of puzzle images with varying levels of difficulty. Some artists may have a distinctive style that makes their puzzles more challenging, while others may focus on creating accessible and enjoyable designs. Research the artist's work and style to ensure it aligns with your preferences and skill level.

9. Seek Recommendations from Fellow Puzzlers

Engaging with the puzzle community, whether through online forums, social media groups, or local puzzle clubs, can provide valuable insights and recommendations. Experienced puzzlers can share their thoughts on specific puzzle images and brands, helping you make informed choices.

10. Trust Your Instincts

Ultimately, trust your instincts and choose puzzles that genuinely spark joy and interest for you. While it's important to consider the difficulty level, it's equally crucial to select images that you find visually appealing and personally satisfying. Enjoying the process of assembling a puzzle is just as important as the challenge itself.

By following these tips, you'll be better equipped to choose jigsaw puzzles that match your skill level and provide an enjoyable experience. Remember, puzzles should be a source of relaxation and fun, so don't be afraid to explore different options and challenge yourself while staying within your comfort zone. Happy puzzling!

(ChatGPT, personal communication, June 20, 2023)