Pencil Pushers 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. Pencil Pushers Puzzle Amazon link

Pencil Pushers Puzzle Springbok Random Cut 1000 Pieces Finished Dimensions: 24” x 30”

Pencil Pushers Puzzle - Roberta's Review

Roberta-Profile
Pencil Pushers Puzzle Springbok Random Cut 1000 Pieces Finished Dimensions: 24” x 30”

Pencil Pushers Puzzle

Springbok
Random Cut
1000 Pieces
Finished Dimensions: 24” x 30”

My Confident Puzzler Difficulty Rating: Medium to Hard

This puzzle was challenging. Not because of the illustration, but because of the . . .

Quality: Unforgivable issues with the piece condition. Some were damaged with splitting tabs.That wasn’t the worst of it. The pieces had rough edges. I had to push virtually every piece in place and mash it down and squish it together with its neighbors to fit it properly. The bottom of the box is less than sturdy. There was a lot of puzzle dust. Many sets of pieces, in one instance 6, were cut through just enough to get them apart, but still together in the bag. The full illustration is on the box top. Inside was a sealed bag of pieces; no poster was included. Color match illustration to pieces was okay. There were no false fits. No pieces were missing.

Getting started: Find the edge pieces and sort by color. I sorted the pencils by color group (6, 1, 5, 4, 4, 2), sub sorting out the sharpened ends of each group. I also sorted the grayish area under the pencil points, and the pencils’ corresponding colored watery areas beneath that.

Construction: I built the frame first. It offered so much color information to get started. I built the puzzle by color groups from the top down. I found the most challenging part to be the watery sections.

Final thoughts: I think this puzzle would be hard for a new puzzler. I certainly didn’t think it was easy. If the quality had been perfect, I would still say medium difficulty is a fair rating. I also think my sorting would have made this a very comfortable build in terms of seeing progress. And, the bottom half of the puzzle was tricky and would take extra patience even if all else was perfect. But it wasn’t. The joy of puzzling was lost to the quality issues described above. Sheer determination kept me from boxing it up. If I try to put a positive spin on this experience it would be a double dose of achievement, one for completing a somewhat challenging puzzle, and another for my will to keep going!

This is the 8th Springbok puzzle I have built. One had a missing piece, another (sold under their secondary brand, Majestic) had similar quality issues regarding the pieces. Three out of eight, not a great track record, but I really enjoyed the other five. Springbok is an old established company with a pretty high rating. I had to review my experience, but stuff happens. I cannot discount the brand.

My grades: Quality B-. Fun Factor C+, could have been A

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About: Springbok

A Rich Legacy in Jigsaw Puzzles

In the world of jigsaw puzzles, few names evoke a sense of nostalgia and quality quite like Springbok. With a rich history spanning several decades, Springbok has established itself as a prominent and beloved puzzle brand. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating history of Springbok, its connection with Hallmark, its unique puzzle qualities, and the diverse range of puzzles it produces.

Origins and Hallmark Connection

Springbok traces its roots back to the 1960s when founders Robert and Katie Lewin embarked on a mission to create high-quality jigsaw puzzles. Initially, the company focused on creating puzzles with exceptional imagery and intricate designs. In 1963, Springbok caught the attention of Hallmark Cards, a renowned greeting card company. Recognizing the potential of Springbok puzzles, Hallmark acquired the company, infusing it with resources and expertise while retaining its commitment to craftsmanship.

Superior Quality and Craftsmanship

One of the distinguishing characteristics of Springbok puzzles is their superior quality. Known for their thick, sturdy pieces, Springbok puzzles are crafted to withstand multiple assemblies, ensuring longevity and durability. The company takes pride in using eco-friendly materials and adheres to rigorous production standards, resulting in puzzles that stand the test of time.

Another hallmark of Springbok puzzles is their precision-cut pieces. The company employs a unique interlocking technique, ensuring that each piece fits seamlessly with its neighbors. This precision cut not only enhances the puzzle assembly experience but also allows for a visually appealing final result.

Diverse Puzzle Collection

Springbok offers a wide array of puzzles, catering to various interests and skill levels. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a fan of classic art, or someone who enjoys whimsical designs, Springbok has something for everyone. Their puzzle themes encompass breathtaking landscapes, nostalgic scenes, vibrant wildlife, iconic landmarks, and much more.

Additionally, Springbok is known for producing specialty puzzles that go beyond the traditional rectangular shape. Their shaped puzzles, often featuring unique silhouettes that complement the image, add an extra layer of challenge and visual appeal. These distinctive puzzles are a testament to Springbok's commitment to innovation and creativity.

Continued Legacy and Dedication

Over the years, Springbok has continued to uphold its legacy as a provider of high-quality puzzles. The company has remained true to its mission of crafting puzzles that delight and engage puzzlers of all ages. Through their collaboration with Hallmark, Springbok has consistently delivered puzzles that capture the imagination and spark joy in the hearts of puzzle enthusiasts.

Springbok's commitment to excellence extends beyond the puzzles themselves. The company understands that assembling puzzles is not only a hobby but also a way to connect with others and create lasting memories. They strive to create puzzles that foster a sense of togetherness, whether it's a family gathering, a quiet evening at home, or a social activity among friends.

In Conclusion

Springbok's history is woven with a passion for puzzles, an unwavering dedication to quality, and a commitment to capturing the essence of visual art. From their partnership with Hallmark to their reputation for superior craftsmanship and diverse puzzle offerings, Springbok has earned its place as a beloved brand in the world of jigsaw puzzles.

As you embark on your puzzle-solving adventures, consider exploring the captivating collection of Springbok puzzles, where creativity, quality, and a rich legacy converge.

(ChatGPT, personal communication, June 20, 2023)