Cosmos Astrology 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.  Cosmos Astrology Amazon link

Cosmos Astrology Galison Ribbon Cut 1000 Pieces Finished Dimensions: 20” x27”

Cosmos Astrology Puzzle - Roberta's Review

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Cosmos Astrology Galison Ribbon Cut 1000 Pieces Finished Dimensions: 20” x27”

Cosmos Astrology

Galison
Ribbon Cut
1000 Pieces
Finished Dimensions: 20” x27”

My Confident Newbie Difficulty Rating: Medium

What a satisfying build! Not finished in a New York minute satisfying, it did take some time, but there was always a sense of progress as this beautiful, gold foil embellished puzzle came together.

Quality: I wish I didn’t have to list any negatives, but there was just one — very loose piece fit. More on that in a bit. Otherwise, this was perfect. The small, sturdy box is not shrink wrapped. Pretty to look at but not practical — the illustration wraps around the box top; a small, full version is on the box bottom. Inside is a disposable bag of pieces and a letter size poster. On the poster back there is a list of qualities for each symbol. Color match of illustrations to pieces is spot on. There was no puzzle dust. The sturdy pieces have some sheen. They are a really nice size and thickness. Not a single piece was damaged in any way, none were together uncut, none were missing.

Getting started: Find the edge pieces and sort by color. I sorted lights and darks of each color and the transitions. While I was sorting I pulled any pieces that had letters on them. Building the frame offered a lot of color information. I pieced together each of the 12 descriptive Zodiac labels and then got started with filling in the frame.

Construction: From the beginning I knew I would love this puzzle! I seem to have been granted excellent color vision, so gradients are a favorite of mine. This one has limited colors but still flowed nicely. The dark areas were the more difficult. Surprisingly there were no false fits, even in those dark areas or the frame. I did encounter a couple pieces that seemed to fit, but it was immediately clear the color was wrong. Sorting was crucial! During the build I had to resort a few times. I did lay out the pieces by shape, but piece color was the main player here. The lines running throughout the puzzle were super helpful as well.  The annoying thing I did encounter was the aforementioned loose piece fit. Those Zodiac symbol phrases I had pieced together proved helpful to the build, moving them into place as a unit - not so much. That, however. was not going to ruin my fun!

Final thoughts: I can highly recommend this puzzle for quality alone. I gave it a medium difficulty, but to be fair, there were some tricky, harder areas. Anyone who dislikes gradients would understandably pass on it anyway. For anyone else, I think it’s worth the satisfying effort.

My grades: Quality A, Fun Factor A+

Cosmos Astrology Galison Ribbon Cut 1000 Pieces Finished Dimensions: 20” x27”My lucky day is Friday. What’s yours?
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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)