Rachel Page Elliott's Wooden Jigsaw Puzzles

Rachel Page Elliott's Wooden jigsaw puzzle, "The Outing", sold at Auction for $27,000.00 as recorded in 2005 Guinness World Record. It states.....

"The puzzle consist of 467 interlocking pieces, many cut in her unique designs of birds, cats, horses, and, of course, Golden Retrievers in various poses. It features a signed print entitled "The Outing" depicting a Golden Retriever female and five puppies playing in the grass."

Rachel-Elliott-Wooden-Puzzles

From the Puzzle Parley,  "Rachel Page Elliott (1913-2009), took up cutting wooden jigsaw puzzles when she was in her seventies. She soon became a top notch puzzle maker.

In 2006 the Guinness Book of World Records recognized her for creating the jigsaw puzzle that sold for the highest price ever ($27,000) at a charitable art auction.

For twenty years she shared her techniques, artistry, and insights about making jigsaw puzzles with accomplished puzzlers and novices alike. Her dedication to fostering a community for the open exchange of ideas led to the first Puzzle Parley in Concord, Massachusetts in September 1994. The first informal Puzzle Exchange took place in Salem, Massachusetts at Puzzle Parley X in 2010. The idea took hold and was formalized in 2012. The exchange at Puzzle Parley 2016 was our fourth."

The following photos are courtesy of Puzzle Parley.

Title: Concord Bridge--April 19, 1775 Artist: A. Lassell Ripley, Maker: Rachel Page Elliott, Series: Pagemark Puzzles, Date: 1993, Width: 18", Height: 19", Pieces: 643, Colorline: sem, Figures: 34 Interlock: yes Styles: earlet knobs

Title: Concord Bridge--April 19, 1775

Artist: A. Lassell Ripley, Maker: Rachel Page Elliott, Series: Pagemark Puzzles, Date: 1993, Width: 18", Height: 19", Pieces: 643, Colorline: sem, Figures: 34 Interlock: yes Styles: earlet knobs

Title: Through the Aspens Artist: Robert Duncan Maker: Rachel Page Elliott Series: Pagemark Puzzles Date: 1999 Width: 21" Height: 13"Pieces: 535 Colorline: sem Figures: 13 Interlock: yes Styles: ft knob

Title: Through the Aspens

Artist: Robert Duncan Maker: Rachel Page Elliott Series: Pagemark Puzzles Date: 1999 Width: 21" Height: 13"Pieces: 535 Colorline: sem Figures: 13 Interlock: yes Styles: ft knob


Title: Quiet Flight Artist: P. Brent Maker: Rachel Page Elliott Series: Pagemark Puzzles Date: 2001 Width: 20" Height: 15"Pieces: 324 Colorline: sem Figures: 8 Interlock: yes Styles: random knobs

Title: Quiet Flight

Artist: P. Brent Maker: Rachel Page Elliott Series: Pagemark Puzzles Date: 2001 Width: 20" Height: 15"Pieces: 324 Colorline: sem Figures: 8 Interlock: yes Styles: random knobs

Title: The Hunt Artist: J.S. Sanderson Wells, Maker: Rachel Page Elliott, Series: Pagemark Puzzles, Date: 2000, Width: 19", Height: 12", Pieces: 416, Colorline: sem, Figures: 11, Interlock: yes, Styles: curl knobs

Title: The Hunt

Artist: J.S. Sanderson Wells, Maker: Rachel Page Elliott, Series: Pagemark Puzzles, Date: 2000, Width: 19", Height: 12", Pieces: 416, Colorline: sem, Figures: 11, Interlock: yes, Styles: curl knobs

From the Guinness World Record   "The record for the most expensive jigsaw puzzle sold for a charitable art auction to benefit a non-profit organization The Golden Retriever Foundation at a bid of $27.000 (£14.589). The hand-crafted wooden jigsaw puzzle was custom made by Rachel Page Elliott (USA). The charity event was held at the Eisenhower Conference Centre, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, USA on 28 September 2005.

At the time, Rachel Page Elliot was 92 years old. She has lectured around the world, and just updated her world-renown book and video on canine anatomical structure and movement. In puzzle circles, she has received national awards from her fellow puzzlers and is renowned for her detailed craftsmanship. The puzzle consist of 467 interlocking pieces, many cut in her unique designs of birds, cats, horses, and, of course, Golden Retrievers in various poses. It features a signed print entitled "The Outing" depicting a Golden Retriever female and five puppies playing in the grass. (A photo is available upon request)."

Rachel Page Elliot started sharing her passion for wooden jigsaw puzzles in her 70's. That is amazing because she continued to be involved in the jigsaw puzzle hobby for almost 20 years. Truly living the dream, she has contributed to the idea of an open exchange which let to forming Puzzle Parley Organization. The 4th Exchange was in 2016.

There's More To Jigsaw Puzzles Than Pieces Book by Linda Richard. A compilation of 50+ jigsaw puzzle related topics, tips and tricks written in conversational format for easy, light reading.There's More To Jigsaw Puzzles Than Pieces Book by Linda Richard. A compilation of 50+ jigsaw puzzle related topics, tips and tricks written in conversational format for easy, light reading. Click Here
AMAZON-STORE-Banner

We have collected a massive list of jigsaw puzzles in numerous categories on our Amazon Store link. It's a quick way to browse most current puzzles and/or specific seasons, accessories and themes. Makes for a terrific one-stop jigsaw puzzle gift giving shopping centre. CLICK HERE

About: Wood Cut vs. Cardboard Jigsaw Puzzles

Exploring the Differences

Jigsaw puzzles are a beloved pastime, offering hours of entertainment and relaxation. While cardboard puzzles have been the traditional choice for many years, wood cut puzzles have gained popularity in recent times. In this article, we'll delve into the differences between assembling a wood cut jigsaw puzzle and a cardboard jigsaw puzzle, with a particular focus on the modern-day laser scroll cutting machines used in wood cut puzzles and their role in creating accurate whimsies.

1. Materials and Durability

The most apparent difference between wood cut and cardboard jigsaw puzzles lies in the materials used. Cardboard puzzles are crafted using thick, sturdy cardboard layers, while wood cut puzzles are made from high-quality wood, often sourced sustainably. The use of wood imparts a distinct tactile and visual appeal to the puzzle pieces, providing a unique and durable puzzle experience.

2. Precision and Interlocking Mechanism

Wood cut puzzles are known for their precise cuts and interlocking mechanisms. In the past, these puzzles were hand-cut, requiring skilled artisans to carefully shape each piece. However, with advancements in technology, modern-day wood cut puzzles are crafted using laser scroll cutting machines. These machines use precise laser technology to cut intricate shapes, ensuring a snug fit between the puzzle pieces. This precision enhances the overall puzzle-solving experience and allows for seamless assembly.

3. Whimsical and Irregular Pieces

One of the standout features of wood cut puzzles is the inclusion of whimsical or irregular puzzle pieces. Whimsies are specially shaped puzzle pieces that are not part of the traditional puzzle image. They can take various forms, including animals, objects, or unique designs. Laser scroll cutting machines are instrumental in creating these whimsies with accuracy and intricacy, adding an element of surprise and delight to the puzzle-solving process.

4. Artistic Appeal and Collectibility

Wood cut puzzles are often chosen for their artistic appeal and collectible nature. Many wood cut puzzle manufacturers collaborate with renowned artists to create exquisite puzzle images. The combination of high-quality wood, precise cutting, and stunning artwork elevates the overall aesthetic and makes wood cut puzzles highly sought after by puzzle enthusiasts and collectors.

5. Puzzle Size and Complexity

Wood cut puzzles are available in a range of sizes and complexity levels. Smaller puzzles with fewer pieces are suitable for beginners or those seeking a quicker puzzle-solving experience, while larger puzzles with thousands of pieces offer a more challenging endeavor. The use of laser scroll cutting machines ensures that even intricate and complex designs can be accurately reproduced, allowing for a seamless assembly regardless of the puzzle's size or difficulty level.

6. Environmental Considerations

Wood cut puzzles often boast eco-friendly credentials due to the sustainable sourcing of wood materials. Many manufacturers prioritize using wood from responsibly managed forests or utilize recycled wood, making wood cut puzzles a conscious choice for environmentally conscious puzzlers.

Embrace the Unique Experience

Whether you choose a wood cut or a cardboard jigsaw puzzle, both offer their own unique experience and appeal. Wood cut puzzles impress with their tactile feel, precision, and whimsical pieces, while cardboard puzzles provide affordability and a wide variety of designs. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preferences and the type of puzzle experience you seek.

So, whether you're captivated by the elegance of wood cut puzzles or prefer the classic charm of cardboard puzzles, there's no shortage of delightful options to explore. Embrace the differences and enjoy the wonderful world of jigsaw puzzling, one piece at a time!

(ChatGPT, personal communication, June 20, 2023)