Review: Ruby Red

I absolutely adore the image of this puzzle, but oh my was it a challenge! Good thing I can be completely stubborn at times, because although I may have wanted to give up on this I never did. I wanted to light it on fire a couple of times, but I wanted to see the finished puzzle even more and I stuck with it. Isn't it gorgeous? It's not your typical puzzle image, and that's part of the draw for me - I gotta be me and I try never to follow the crowd unless they're headed towards someone selling chocolate!

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Title: Ruby Red Artist: Phantom Orchid Brand: Schmidt Puzzles

This is a Schmidt puzzle, and usually their quality is excellent. This is the first puzzle of theirs that I've been disappointed with. The cut of the pieces was less than good, some of the tabs were completely broken off because the part connecting them was so thin. A couple of the pieces weren't broken on the initial sort, but they broke when I picked them up or tried to place them. I don't know the manufacturing process well enough to know what causes this, but it was completely frustrating! Here are a few of the broken and almost broken pieces.

Title: Ruby Red Artist: Phantom Orchid Brand: Schmidt Puzzles

A few broken pieces aside, the rest of the quality was quite good. Thick pieces with a linen finish, excellent fit, and lovely image reproduction. This puzzle came in a large commemorative tin, so perhaps because it was a special edition it was cut differently than the other Schmidt puzzles I've worked? I can't say for sure.

I knew going in that it would be quite difficult with all that black, but I love the image so much that I really wanted to get it finished. Normally if I'm assembling a puzzle and it feels like work then it isn't fun; I'm supposed to be enjoying myself! But once in a while I refuse to give up because I really want to conquer it - this was one of those times. 

The lovely lady in the middle of the image was easy enough to work with all the skin, fishnet stockings and sparkles; it was the curtains behind her that tested me. At the edge of the curtains the black is a little lighter and you can see a pattern, but the rest of them are basically solid black. Yikes! I sorted the black pieces by shape and counted them (I just wanted to know how much of this puzzle was all black), and almost 400 of the 1000 pieces were completely black. I can't believe I didn't give up!

In the end I'm pleased with myself for finishing, it is such a striking image! It's mostly good quality, but the broken pieces prevent me from recommending this puzzle. It may have been an isolated problem, but this is a quality issue we puzzlers really dislike. If the pieces are broken, the puzzle is broken. 

Details:

  • Title:                   Ruby Red
  • Artist:                  Phantom Orchid
  • Brand:                Schmidt Puzzles
  • Piece Count:      1000 pieces
  • Size:                   Approx. 27 x 19 in. (69 x 48 cm)
  • Purchased:        New

Quality:

  • Board:                  Very good
  • Cutting:                 Poor
  • Image:                  Very good
  • Box:                      Excellent, commemorative tin
  • Fit:                        Very good
  • Puzzle dust:          Minimal amount
  • Piece cut:              Grid cut
  • Piece shapes:       Good variety
  • Finish:                   Slightly shiny finish, lays flat

Overall rating:              Good quality, but not recommended

Want to see more of my reviews and comments on puzzles? Check out My Jigsaw Journal, there are new puzzles and posts every day! 

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About: Schmidt Puzzles

A Legacy of Quality and Innovation

Introduction: When it comes to jigsaw puzzles, one name that stands out for its commitment to quality and innovation is Schmidt. With a rich history spanning over a century, Schmidt has become synonymous with exquisite puzzle craftsmanship and captivating designs. In this article, we will explore the story behind the Schmidt puzzle company, its dedication to producing high-quality puzzles, and the impact it has had on the puzzle industry.

A Legacy of Craftsmanship: The Schmidt puzzle company was founded in 1914 by Josef Friedrich Schmidt in Germany. From the very beginning, Schmidt prioritized craftsmanship and attention to detail, striving to create puzzles that were both challenging and visually stunning. The company's commitment to excellence quickly gained recognition, establishing Schmidt as a leading name in the puzzle industry.

Innovation and Technological Advancements: Schmidt embraced technological advancements in puzzle production, continually striving to improve the puzzle-making process. They were one of the first companies to introduce puzzle-cutting machines, allowing for more intricate and precise puzzle pieces. Schmidt's dedication to innovation resulted in puzzles with seamless interlocking pieces, enhancing the puzzling experience for enthusiasts worldwide.

Expanding Puzzle Collections: Schmidt offers a wide range of puzzle collections to cater to diverse interests and preferences. From landscapes and cityscapes to animals, art, and famous landmarks, their puzzle catalog has something for everyone. Schmidt collaborates with renowned artists, photographers, and licensors to create captivating and visually striking puzzle images that engage and inspire puzzlers.

Quality Materials and Sustainability: One of the hallmarks of Schmidt puzzles is their use of high-quality materials. They source durable and environmentally friendly materials to ensure that their puzzles can be enjoyed for years to come. Schmidt is committed to sustainability and responsible production practices, making them a popular choice for puzzle enthusiasts who value both quality and eco-consciousness.

Innovative Puzzle Formats: Schmidt has also introduced innovative puzzle formats to enhance the puzzling experience. They offer puzzle sets with varying piece sizes, making them suitable for puzzlers of different skill levels, including children and seniors. Schmidt has also ventured into 3D puzzles, allowing enthusiasts to create three-dimensional structures and landmarks.

Collaborations and Licensed Puzzles: Schmidt has collaborated with various licensors and brands to bring beloved characters, iconic artworks, and famous brands to life in puzzle form. From Disney characters and famous movie franchises to renowned artists like Gustav Klimt and Vincent van Gogh, Schmidt's licensed puzzles offer a unique and immersive puzzling experience.

Engaging the Puzzle Community: Schmidt recognizes the importance of community and engagement within the puzzle world. They regularly host puzzle contests and events, encouraging puzzlers to come together and showcase their skills. Schmidt also actively listens to feedback from their customers, incorporating suggestions and ideas to continually improve their puzzle offerings.

Conclusion: Schmidt has earned its reputation as a premier jigsaw puzzle company through its dedication to craftsmanship, innovation, and commitment to quality. With a vast array of puzzle collections, collaborations, and puzzle formats, Schmidt offers something for every puzzle enthusiast.

Whether you're a seasoned puzzler or just starting your puzzling journey, Schmidt puzzles will captivate you with their meticulous attention to detail, stunning designs, and a commitment to providing an enjoyable and rewarding puzzling experience.

(ChatGPT, personal communication, June 20, 2023)