Starry Night Puzzle 
by Jigsaw Puzzle Connections Facebook Group Member Sherri Demos - Puzzling With My Mom Series

We invite you to read Sherri's review on the following jigsaw puzzle. She enjoys jigsaw puzzling with her Mom and she has reviewed/journaled several that will be available on this website. The following is one of the many in her 'Puzzling With My Mom' Series.  Here is a similar puzzle by the same Artist: Amazon Link

Brand: Aquarius Title: Starry Night puzzle Artist: Dean Russo Pieces: 500

Starry Night Puzzle Review

Starry-Night-puzzle
Brand: Aquarius Title: Starry Night puzzle Artist: Dean Russo Pieces: 500

Brand: Aquarius

Title: Starry Night puzzle

Artist: Dean Russo

Pieces: 500

I recently finished this puzzle for a Puzzling Together event. I bought it a few months ago and eagerly waited to put it together. While I love the Van Gogh original, I adore this Dean Russo interpretation. This is made by Aquarius, which is a company that was new to me, so I had no idea what the quality would be like.

As with many of my puzzles, I made a plan of attack, deciding to start with the darker parts of the bottom landscape and the tree on the left. In Van Gogh’s original painting, the tree is a cypress, but in this reinvention, it is an amorphous shape in black, dark green and dark purple. I thought that the darker parts would be the most challenging, and I wanted to get that part behind me. I was right, by the way. It was the most challenging part.

From there, I moved on to the first color band that is most likely hilltops, and then assembled the colorful swirls on the left side of the tree. I then worked each major circle or swirl on the right side, working my way up to the top. The stylized sky parts were more vivid and were fairly easy to distinguish. When finished, this beauty has a definite “street” vibe to it, bringing to mind graffiti art that can surround us in almost any major city.

Brand: Aquarius Title: Starry Night puzzle Artist: Dean Russo Pieces: 500

My first experience with this brand was favorable. The pieces are grid cut with 25 pieces going across and 20 pieces down, for a total of exactly 500 pieces. The artwork was clearly printed with crisp lines and true colors matching the cover art. The finish is a nice semi-gloss, and the fit was tight enough to pick the finished puzzle up. There was minimal puzzle dust, and no inadequately cut or missing pieces. While there was no poster included, the cover art on the front and back of the box was a sufficient guide. I am definitely going to be buying more from this puzzle company.

Puzzle Details: Aquarius (“Select” is written after the name, possibly a category for some of their puzzles), Starry Night (strangely, the actual title was not printed anywhere on the box) by Dean Russo, 500 pieces, 2017.

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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)