Jigsaw Joy

Happy New year Puzzlers

2012-01-18T17:39:00.001+13:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL PUZZLERS and many thanks for all your Christmas and New Yeargreetings. We have an exciting time ahead with lots more selections and great puzzle ideas for 2012.Watch this space!In the meantime, check out our clearance lines - we are making room for some fabulous new puzzles in the next couple of months.

Where's Wally Was $32 Now $25

Country Horses Was $45 now $35

Merry Christmas and Happy Puzzling!

2011-12-24T17:40:00.000+13:00

Merry Christmas everyone. Thanks for your business in 2011. We hope you get the opportunity to relax with family and friends this festive season. Put a jigsaw out on a table and watch it attract family and visitors alike - need the table? - just pop the loose bits in a meat tray (washed of course!) and spread your table cloth over the jigsaw on the table. Voila! Your table is useable again. Look out for new jigsaws in 2012 as we will be restocking....Happy Puzzling! Joy and the Team at Pathway Puzzles

Jigsaw Puzzle accessories

2011-12-10T15:42:00.001+13:00

If you know someone who enjoys jigsaws, and you are looking for something a bit different for them for Christmas, How about a puzzle roll, or a puzzle store so the jigsaw can be put away without being broken up??

We use a puzzle store all the time for the puzzle we are working on here at Pathway Puzzles, and we use a puzzle roll for that special puzzle that we don't want to glue up, but don't want to break up yet. So, both come highly recommended!

Special jigsaw gifts for Christmas

2011-11-28T15:20:00.001+13:00

We have some great bargains in our jigsaw clearance area on our website. if you are looking for some extra gifts, or stocking fillers take a look - you will be surprised at what is there. Save $50 on 18,000 piece jigsaws including this one - Skylines of the World.

New Heye jigsaws available

2011-11-12T15:53:00.001+13:00

We have just been unpacking some amazing jigsaws produced by the German jigsaw manufacturer Heye. Take a look at these jigsaws.

Castle of Horror 2000 pieces.

Cow 1000 pieces.

Metamorphose 1000 pieces.

World's biggest jigsaw puzzle collapses

2011-10-31T17:04:00.000+13:00

I nearly cried when I read this article! This poor 70 year old chap completed the 32,000 piece jigsaw (the worlds largest) then stood it up against the wall so it could be photographed, and it collapsed!! Most of you will agree, there have been times when the cat has jumped on it, or the kids have played with your jigsaw, and messed up a bit - but to have spent 342 hours putting it together only to have it collapse is devastating. But he was not put off, he simply spent another 50 hours putting it back together again!Read the full story here.

Do leave us a comment if you have a story of when you had a mishap with one of your jigsaws.

What is the world's hardest jigsaw??

2011-10-19T08:14:00.001+13:00

This could be debated of course, and I am sure we have all met our match with jigsaws that have stretched our patience, but many experts consider the most difficult to be 1965 Springbok Puzzle

“Convergence,” based on Jackson Pollock’s painting of the same name. I can't say I am in any hurry to try this one! What is the hardest jigsaw you have tried - tell us about the one that has challenged you the most, we'd love to hear from you.

New Masters jigsaws

2011-10-11T15:31:00.003+13:00

Just arrived - these great 1000 piece jigsaws by the great Master artists - Van Gogh, Monet and Renoir. Order yours now (www.pathwaypuzzles.co.nz) as they won't last long!

Water lilies. Claude Monet

Bridge at Arles. Vincent van Gogh.

The Boating party. Renoir

Israel leads the world!

2011-10-06T16:42:00.002+13:00

With sales of some 1.2 million puzzles annually, Israelis are among the world’s leading jigsaw puzzle enthusiasts Go into any household in Israel and you’ll find the exact same pictures of charming landscapes, Disney characters and famous buildings. Some are up on walls for display but most of these images are in pieces and packed in boxes. “Everyone does puzzles in Israel,” Yossi Bar-on, the country’s unofficial puzzle guru, says. “There are some 200 puzzles per 100 people in Israel. That’s among the highest in the world per capita.” There’s something about taking hundreds of pieces and making them into a whole picture that has won over populations around the globe. In Israel, adults and children alike are captivated by this pastime. Some 1.2 million puzzles are sold in Israel annually. By comparison, in the United States, where the population is 44 times that of Israel’s, some three million puzzles are sold yearly according to the Puzzle History website. In Israel, the peak sales times are just before religious holidays, particularly the autumn high holidays. “Sales of puzzles go up before the holidays because they make good presents,” says Rami Lavi, CEO of Habos Hakatan, an Israeli toy company that produces 250,000 puzzles a year. “Sales also go up in winter when kids play at home more.” In 2010, Puzzleland — the biggest seller of all the top brand names of jigsaw puzzles in Israel — sold 2,200 puzzles a day in the run-up to Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. (Courtesy of Israeli trade Commission, Australia see here for further)

Our 100th post!!

2011-09-27T15:06:00.001+13:00

My, how time flies! This is our 100th post. We have had such fun writing about the Joy's of Jigsaws the time has simply flown. Here is a quote from the forward of the book 'The Jigsaw Puzzle. Piecing together a history" by Anne Williams. "Puzzles aren't a way to kill time, as many think. In my experience, the most avid puzzlers are often people with the least amount of discretionary time." Now there is a statement I really agree with. Thanks for reading our Blog over the last two and a half years and 100 posts. We hope you have found it as interesting and enjoyable as we have to write it.

Japanese themed jigsaws

2011-09-15T15:49:00.002+12:00

These Japanese themed jigsaws are beautifully coloured and detailed - an absolute pleasure to do!

Hein 1000 pieces

Yoi 1000 pieces

Japanese Garden 1000 pieces.

A special message from a very special puzzler!

2011-09-05T14:49:00.004+12:00

"Thank you for my puzzle. I'm very good at doing puzzles and it's soooo exciting especially when we do it together as a family. We lost the last piece and I was really disappointed. We looked all night for it and then another day I found it in my Barbie box. I was so excited and dashed and put it in! My puzzle looks awesome, she is so pretty. I liked glueing the jewels on at the end." Love Abby, Palmerston North, New Zealand. Age 6 years.

Coffee table, inspired by jigsaw puzzles

2011-08-25T15:51:00.005+12:00

Now here is a use for those puzzles with missing pieces - United Kingdom designer, Rupert McKelvie has produced a coffee table inspired by jigsaw puzzles. The coffee table is known as Missing Pieces Coffee Table.

Within this design, Rupert McKelvie used several jigsaw puzzle sets with missing pieces. Individual missing pieces makes a puzzle incomplete or functionless. However, in other hands, individual missing pieces produce a complete and functional stylish coffee table. Read more about it here

Timelapse video

2011-08-21T10:02:00.002+12:00

Wouldn't we all like to do a jigsaw at this speed...
No, no fun at all!!

Puzzle Pyramids

2011-08-12T15:59:00.003+12:00

Here is a whole new concept in jigsaws - A unique 3D puzzle in the shape of a perfect pyramid.
Piece the 240 high quality plastic pieces together to form a fantastic 3D puzzle. The puzzlepyramid® is created with a mixture of flat and hinged pieces, all of which are numbered on the reverse (just in case you decide to piece the puzzle together using the numbers rather than the picture). The completed pyramid is a unique decorative object with five sides of imagery.
I am working on one at the moment, and I am really delighted with the result.

Worlds largest puzzle completed!

2011-07-29T19:00:00.004+12:00

A couple who are recently married, are the first in the UK to complete putting together the 32,000 pieces which make up the Ravensburger jigsaw Double Retrospect. They spent just under 12 weeks putting together the jigsaw which has a finished size of 544 x 172 cms. Read more about them here

New jigsaws

2011-07-20T15:09:00.005+12:00

Stocks are limited on these beautiful jigsaws, so don't miss out.

Splash! Shaped. 1000 pieces.

Sunset in the Maldives. 1000 pieces.

Hein. 1000 pieces.

Jigsaw Puzzle Solving Style Reveals Your Personality

2011-07-03T15:29:00.000+12:00

Jigsaw style - are you hoarder, border obsessive or opportunist?
Have you ever experienced 'jigsaw rage?' Researchers at the University of Bath studied this issue and discovered that people have different approaches to puzzling and that, when there are two different approaches, there can be trouble.

What sort of trouble you say? Well how about when your brother hides the last piece in order to be the winner? How about when your spouse does not allow you to touch 'her' part of the puzzle. How about when you withhold the extra pieces and refuse to allow your partner to touch them?

University of Bath researchers used jigsaw puzzlers to study how people collaborate. They had individuals work on a 120-piece jigsaw puzzle, either alone or in a group.

They discovered categories of puzzlers including hoarders, border obsessives and opportunists.

Hoarders will shield parts of the finished puzzles or hide the picture on the lid from others.

Border obsessives must complete the border before they move on to the rest of the puzzle. They often dominate groups -- controlling decisions and behaviors.

Opportunists sort piles by criteria. They use different ways to solve the puzzle - from the top to the bottom, from a major part of the picture, etc. Opportunists did better when completing a puzzle alone.

Puzzlers altered their approach when they were asked to work in a group, especially if the person they worked with was of a different personality style.

The strategy you use to solve your puzzle likely is indicative of your personality and level of skill although in a lesser way than the extremes shown during puzzle solving.

What do you call the shapes of jigsaw pieces??

2011-06-22T15:36:00.003+12:00

As I’ve handles puzzle pieces over the years, I've often wondered what to call the shapes. Sometimes I've needed to describe a puzzle piece to a puzzle helper, and a suitable term just doesn't seem to exist. Anne Williams discusses this very subject in her book, The Jigsaw Puzzle. She mentions the “running man” shape and the “turtle” shape. She states although there are several terms used there is no one list of terms agreed upon by everyone.
What do you call the various jigsaw piece shapes? - leave me a comment. Or come back later if you think of one.

More new jigsaws

2011-06-19T17:37:00.006+12:00

Fabulous new jigsaws just arrived.

Postcard from Paris. 1000 pieces.

Sunset in the Maldives 1000 pieces
Check out the website under Newly Received for more great jigsaws.

Give a jigsaw as a gift - with a difference!

2011-06-05T09:01:00.003+12:00

We all enjoy giving a jigsaw as a gift, but here is an idea for a jigsaw gift that is a bit different - do the puzzle yourself, and send chunks of completed puzzle to the birthday person over a number of days - makes for an air of mystery! Click here to read about it.

New EDUCA puzzles

2011-05-28T15:39:00.003+12:00

Educa is a great jigsaw puzzle manufacturer with a strong and popular range. According to their website they value creativity, safety, variety and quality.

Educa have the record for the smallest 1000 piece puzzle (46 by 30cm).

Educa in 2007 brought out what was then, the largest jigsaw puzzle at 24,000 pieces. This puzzle, called Life, The Greatest Puzzle, features the work of New Zealand artist Royce B McClure, well known for his 3d effects jigsaw puzzles.

Fabulous 4D jigsaws

2011-05-14T14:52:00.004+12:00

Experience and rebuild the past, present and future in these amazing 4D jigsaws. Build from the ground up with jigsaw pieces, models and time poster.
These are available on our website now, but won't last long.

Mike Nettmann and his puzzle pieces exhibition

2011-04-28T15:42:00.007+12:00

Mike Nettmann, a South African born artist, who has lived in New Zealand for 30 years, has also used jigsaw puzzle pieces as the basis for his artwork. His exhibition of paintings shows jigsaw puzzle pieces representing gratitude, humility, loyalty, faith, obedience, love, tolerance and respect - all of which he has put into a basket of lost values. Read about the exhibition here.
Click here for a glimpse of the exhibition.
The exhibition is on at Kaan Zamaan, Kerikeri Rd, Kerikeri, New Zealand until May 11.

Mosaics from jigsaw pieces

2011-04-16T16:07:00.004+12:00

If you have ever wondered what to do with those jigsaw puzzles that have bits missing, perhaps you could donate them to Nürnberg-based artist Gerhard Mayer who re-purposes thousands of pieces from jigsaw puzzles to create enormous, abstract collages that fill entire gallery walls. He uses a delicate process of layering sections of puzzles that have already been pieced together to create new images and textures. See more of his work here.

I finished the Wills and Kate jigsaw

2011-04-11T17:00:00.003+12:00

I have just finished the 250 piece Wills and Kate engagement jigsaaw. it was fun to do - certainly not difficult, and the whimsie pieces made it extra fun. These are little theme cut pieces - such as their initials, a heart, rings, wine glasses etc. They really add to the beauty of the puzzle. it is very good quality too. I'd definitely recommend it for something a bit special.

Royal wedding jigsaw now on sale

2011-03-23T16:09:00.002+13:00

For £30, people can buy a 250-piece jigsaw to commemorate next month's big day.

The internet store for Highgrove, the heir to the throne's Gloucestershire home, is advertising the puzzle, entitled Catherine & William Engagement Jigsaw, for £29.95.

It is being advertised as "a finely cut wooden jigsaw featuring unique Wentworth 'whimsy' pieces showing the engagement photograph of HRH Prince William and Catherine Middleton".

The puzzle depicts Catherine Middleton in her blue Issa dress and wearing Princess Diana's sapphire ring, while Prince William smiles proudly alongside her on the 14in by 10in puzzle.

Ravensburger's 32,000 piece jigsaw!

2011-03-07T15:01:00.010+13:00

Ravensburger Australia are about to release the worlds largest jigsaw 32,000 pieces -called Double Retrospect artwork by Kieth Haring. Educa held the record for the largest commercially available jigsaw puzzle with Life 24000 pieces. But now Ravensburger strikes back! I don't think the image of 32 blocks of symbols has quite the same apppeal to me as the Royce McClure artwork in 'Life', but then if you are a puzzler, and you're up for the challenge... The finished size is 544 x 172 cms! Watch this utube video of its production - fascinating! Or click here to see another video of it.
Leave a comment to tell us what you think of the new puzzle.

Hold a puzzle party!

2011-02-13T16:01:00.003+13:00

Bring your jigsaw loving friends together for an evening of fun and laughter.A little careful planning and everyone will have such a great night they will be asking you when is the next one! Everyone will just love doing the puzzle, chatting and catching up, and of course your hospitality.

•Firstly choose your puzzle. This may be one that suits the theme of your party, or may suit the time of the year - Spring, Christmas, Easter. Check out our website for ideas.

•Set aside a large table with excellent lighting

•Prepare non greasy snacks, and drinks

•Have background music to match your theme

•Send invitations in plenty of time

•Sit back and enjoy yourself

•The finished puzzle could be donated to a local charity, or raffled

New Shaped puzzles!

2011-02-12T08:36:00.003+13:00

We have a new shipment of beautiful shaped jigsaws from Sunsout. Visit our website to see the full range.

Tutankhamen jigsaw

2011-02-06T09:04:00.006+13:00

We don't have the smallest jigsaw, but we certainly do have a standard 1000 piece jigsaw of Tutankhamen. Its a delight to do, with lots of images around the outside to add interest. See the detailshere

How small is the smallest jigsaw puzzle?

2011-01-21T17:49:00.003+13:00

Along the same theme, how small is the smallest jigsaw?
Small can mean many things, but one candidate is “King Tut,” a wooden puzzle, approximately 6.55cm x 5.5cm, made by KARNAN, in Sweden that has about 90 pieces.

How old is the oldest jigsaw puzzle?

2011-01-13T13:55:00.002+13:00

This is a question I was asked recently, which set me to doing some research...
The Oldest Jigsaws, or dissected puzzles as they were then called, were the dissected maps made by John Spilsbury, map maker and owner of a print shop in Russell Court, London. He was born in Worcester in 1739 and Linda Hannas' book ' The English Jigsaw Puzzle 1760-1890' gives a detailed account of his life.

In 1785 John Wallis published the first really light hearted puzzle 'John Gilpin ' an illustration of William Cowpers ballad.

In 1787 William Darton was the first to dissect a chronological table of English Sovereigns with the grand title 'Engravings for Teaching the Elements of English History and Chronology after the manner of Dissected Maps for Teaching Geography.' The puzzle was as boring as the title, and the next year his rival and neighbor, John Wallis produced a lighter version that went on selling for the next ten years.

I'd love to hear from you if you can add any further thought to this discussion.

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-29T09:13:00.010+13:00

Happy holidays to all our customers, and readers of this blog. If you are holidaying away, at the relatives, the bach or camping, be sure to take a jigsaw. They are great for the evenings without TV, or those days of inclement weather when you can't get outside.

Worried about losing the pieces? - try the pieceless puzzle.

Need to occupy everyone? - there is our family puzzle with two sizes of pieces.

No room? Try a travel puzzle or a scramble square.

Jigsaws keep everyone entertained during the holidays!

Rosina Wachtmeister puzzles, beautifully framed

2010-12-04T16:02:00.003+13:00

Sandy from Kaiapoi, New Zealand, recently sent us this wonderful photo of herself and her framed Rosina Wachtmeister jigsaws - 'Window' and 'We want to be together'.
She has them hanging in pride of place in the room her Grandchildren use when they visit. Thanks Sandy!
If you have photographs of jigsaws you have completed, and would like to share them with other puzzlers just email them to us at puzzles@xtra.co.nz.

What do you call a person who enjoys doing jigsaw puzzles?

2010-11-18T17:09:00.000+13:00

A Dissectologist!

The BCD, or Benevolent Confraternity of Dissectologist’s to give it it’s fuller title, is a Worldwide club for lovers of Jigsaw Puzzles from all Nationalities and time periods.

Recycle Old Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces: Craft a Wreath, Ornament or Picture Frame

2010-11-12T10:39:00.002+13:00

Heres a novel way of finding a new use for those old jigsaws with missing bits - make them into a Christmas decoration or wreath.

Pieceless Jigsaws

2010-11-04T14:37:00.005+13:00

These puzzles are made from single sheets of felt like material with a pattern cut into it like a jigsaw puzzle. The pieces, however, are not cut 100% so they stay attached in a single strand. In this way you can never lose a piece. The puzzle has a picture on both side - like having two puzzles in one.
They are perfect for traveling or while waiting (doctor's office, dentist, anywhere you end up sitting with nothing to do).
Take a look at this utube video for a close up look at the pieceless puzzle.

WASGIJ Christmas 5 That Warm Christmas Feeling

2010-10-18T16:26:00.007+13:00

WASGIJ Christmas 5 is due out at the beginning of November, so WASGIJ fans - order yours now so you don't miss out! All the family are enjoying that warm Christmas feeling that fills the room while Mum brings in the tea. Then why does Dad look so cross? WASGIJ fans, you know the puzzle holds the answer! The picture on the box lid is not the puzzle; it is simply a clue to what the puzzle is! I love the humour and cheerfulness of the WASGIJs. What is it you particularly like about WASGIJ puzzles?? Post a comment and let us know.

Difficult puzzles

2010-10-08T15:00:00.005+13:00

The complexity of a jigsaw puzzle largely depends on two things - the size of the puzzle, and the colour of the design, or a combination of them. The Worlds Largest Jigsaw, 24,000 pieces relies on considerable patience by virtue of its share size, although the pattern itself is bright and colourful and not too difficult.
In a puzzle such as Lunchtime 1932, 1000 pieces, the pieces are shades of black and white, and so it is very difficult to complete.

No matter what your age or puzzle ability, the more challenging the jigsaw, the more rewarding on completion. What is the most difficult puzzle you have ever put together?? Click on comment below, and let us know.

I'd love this bookshelf!

2010-09-30T16:41:00.003+13:00

How I'd love to have this bookshelf at home! The books on each shelf relate to a particular topic - Lady Chatterleys Pullover, Much Ado about knitting, Withering Tights... A fun jigsaw to do, full of detail and humour. The artwork is that of Colin Thompson, who has illustrated some wonderful jigsaws.. He has a great website - take a look here

How to make your own jigsaw roll

2010-09-26T16:40:00.002+13:00

When you need to be able to shift your puzzle off the table a jigsaw roll is a useful thing to have. Here are the instructions for making your own jigsaw roll.
If however, you are not too good with the sewing machine, we sell them ready made! Take a look here.

The worlds largest and unsolved jigsaw puzzle

2010-09-08T14:02:00.001+12:00

Archaeologists are all set to unearth several pieces of the world’s oldest and largest unsolved jigsaw puzzle- a 2,200-year-old map of Rome made of thousands of marble fragments-by next year.

The rare pieces could be excavated following construction work for a new metro line near Rome’s majestic forum area.

Read more about this here.

Rosina Waschmeister jigsaws back in stock

2010-09-05T21:20:00.003+12:00

These beautiful jigsaws sell out as fast as they come in, so don't delay if you want one to add to your collection.

New EDUCA puzzles

2010-08-24T18:51:00.005+12:00

We have lots of new EDUCA puzzles in stock, so check out whats new here. You will be as pleased as we are!

Puppy Collage 1000 pieces

Mia 1000 pieces

The Argentinian film "Puzzle"

2010-08-20T08:52:00.003+12:00

I recently went to the NZ Film Festival viewing of the Argentinian film "Puzzle". It tells the story of a middle-aged Argentine wife and mother, Maria, who develops an interest in doing large jigsaw puzzles. She finds a like minded jigsaw partner, and secretly spends two afternoons a week doing jigsaws with him, they enter and win a competition. There are all sorts of subplots and th overall metaphor of life being a jigsaw can't be missed.Take a look at this trailer for the film.
If you also saw it, I'd love to hear what you thought. Leave a comment.

New jigsaws on website

2010-08-13T15:09:00.006+12:00

We have been flat out the last few days adding new jigsaws to the website. In particular we are now well stocked with beautiful animal jigsaws. Heres a couple of them:

Check out the other new puzzles here

2010-08-06T14:04:00.007+12:00

Take a look at this article about a 87 year old man who spends over 7 years doing a 5000 puzzle, only to find one piece missing when he completed it. Can you imagine the distress!

I have found since starting to use a portapuzzle I've had a lot less "Oh no, where did that bit go" moments! Check it out on our website.

New jigsaws with large easy to handle pieces

2010-07-17T11:35:00.006+12:00

We have just received a beautiful selection of Ravensburger jigsaws with larger pieces for puzzlers who are visually impaired or who have difficulty handling the small pieces of a standard jigsaw.
Avian World

Dad's Shed

Doggie Delight

Check out our full range here.

A moving online jigsaw!

2010-07-07T16:54:00.003+12:00

Here is a jigsaw that is not your usual online jigsaw puzzle!

This is amazing, the picture has movement in it the entire time you are working on it. A tip - take all the pieces out of the box first.
Drag the pieces together to make a picture, it can be done completely!

Click Here : Unusual Puzzle

Jigsaw wallpaper

2010-07-02T18:03:00.005+12:00

If you're looking for a new use for your old jigsaws, or those with missing bits you got at that garage sale, try making wallpaper!
This is what Tracey Kendall, wallpaper designer has done. Quite impressive don't you think?

Crazy Football

2010-06-26T17:29:00.004+12:00

Football fans, you will love this 500 piece puzzle by Heye. The humorous image will give you a chuckle as you put together the 500 pieces while you watch/listen to the FIFA World Cup.

WASGIJ Mystery 6 now available!!

2010-06-04T17:31:00.003+12:00

At last, another WASGIJ mystery! This time its called Camping Commotion. Get away from it all and go back to nature with a restful camping holiday... Oh dear, it looks like the peace on this particular campsite is about to be shattered! What have the characters seen? Don't you just love the humour of these jigsaws?
Available now from Pathway Puzzles.

New NZ scenic jigsaws

2010-05-31T16:46:00.005+12:00

We have just received some beautiful New Zealand scenic jigsaws from Blue Opal. These are ideal for posting overseas, or taking with you as gifts if you are heading somewhere sunnier this Winter. They are also quite inexpensive at $25.00 for 1000 pieces. Take a look at the full range here.

Jigsaw puzzle clock

2010-05-23T16:48:00.004+12:00

Knowing how puzzlers lose track of time when engrossed in a jigsaw, I thought this was a fantastic idea - making a clock out of a jigsaw! A puzzle piece moves around on the hour hand, and when it strikes twelve the piece fits. Now how cool is that!! Tell me what you think.
Click here to go to the website.

New Heye jigsaws by Rosina Wachtmeister

2010-05-13T07:56:00.003+12:00

Rosina Wachtmeister's art is well known, and we have just received a shipment of 1000 piece jigsaws featuring her colouful cats. Every piece is vibrant and colurful, with the addition of gold foiling as an added dimension.

Ever wonder how a jigsaw is made?

2010-05-05T15:34:00.003+12:00

Last Wednesday, The Breakfast Show on TV 1 made a visit to the Holdson's jigsaw factory in Auckland, and followed the course of a jigsaw from go to whoa. I was fascinated, as despite my love of jigsaws I have never actually seen the process. If you are interested click here for the link

World's largest puzzle completed

2010-04-29T14:37:00.006+12:00

Here is an interesting report from the UK Man completes worlds largest jigsaw. This puzzle is available in NZ, just contact us if you are interested. It is certainly a beautiful puzzle, and is also available in a smaller version of just 3000 pieces.
I am constantly amazed at the patience and perseverance shown by people who do jigsaws. Congratulations! What a great achievement!

The pieceless puzzle

2010-04-22T15:30:00.003+12:00

Here is a new idea! Made of soft flexible material, the Pieceless Puzzle is actually one continuous strand of interconnecting branches. Great for travel, fun for all ages, and--best of all--there's no risk of losing any pieces! Once you pick it up, you won't put it down! Whats more, it is 2-sided. Twice the challenge, twice the fun!

All the world's a stage...

2010-04-15T16:42:00.003+12:00

"All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players. They have their exits and entrances; each man in his time plays many parts....." This is the perfect puzzle for the Shakespeare lover! Put together the 1,500 piece puzzle by James C. Christensen, then try and identify the 38 Shakespeares plays depicted in the image. Then, can you tell which scenes are from which plays? You'll find Othello and Iago, elves from A Midsummer Night's Dream, Richard the Third and many more.
This is a jigsaw that is challenging and just a little different. I think it is fabulous, tell us what you think. Click on comment below...

Easter weekend

2010-04-04T10:27:00.003+12:00

Whatever you have planned for the long weekend, we hope it's a great one! Its the ideal time to have some quality family fun and what better than completing a jigsaw together. This beautiful jigsaw, Country Horses, by Ravensburger has a circle in the middle consisting of 100 large pieces for the kids. The surrounding 525+ pieces are for the adults. Complete family fun!

Guinness World's Record Official timed jigsaw

2010-03-31T16:55:00.003+13:00

For those of you who can't resist a challenge heres a very special one! Your challenge is to put together this 250 piece puzzle in record time. The timer is also included.
The puzzle itself is a montage of various amazing world record holders showcasing such achievements as the man who completed the most Pogo Stick jumps in a minute and the most tennis balls held in a mouth (this record is currently held by a dog!).

The pack is presented in an official Guinness World Records box and includes an official Guinness World Records stopwatch timer to record your record-breaking attempts with.

We had fun just trying to beat each other. It is certainly a bit of family fun for the holidays!

How to complete your record attempts:
Complete the puzzle on a hard flat surface
Open the bag containing the puzzle pieces and tip them into the box
Shake the box
Start the included digital timer, tip out the pieces and start puzzling!
As soon as the the last piece of the puzzle is placed, stop the timer.

Available now from our website. Have fun!!

more shaped puzzles

2010-03-24T16:20:00.006+13:00

We promised to show more shaped puzzles from Sunsout and here they are:

Barnyard strut
A delicate balance

And for the kitten lovers:
Kittens delight
To whom it concern

All are about 1000 pieces and available now from our website www.pathwaypuzzles.co.nz

EDUCA piece replacement service

2010-03-17T15:57:00.003+13:00

Did you know that if you lose a piece of your EDUCA jigsaw you can simply email them and they will send you the replacement piece? What a fantastic service!
Just go to their website, (www.educcaborras.com) and complete the form. They identify the puzzle by the 11 digit code on the box, and this is required to identify the exact puzzle. You then identify the missing pieces by counting the pieces up and across and quoting this.
So, remember to keep the box from EDUCA puzzles just in case a piece disappears!

Hear Margaret Drabble reads from The Pattern on the Carpet

2010-03-13T15:58:00.002+13:00

I have just been relaxing, sitting doing my latest jigsaw (Lunchtime 1932) as I listen to a podcast of Margaret Drabble, reading an excerpt from her book, The Pattern on the Carpet. I really recommend you do the same the next time you are puzzling. Fascinating listening! here's the link.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/audio/2009/apr/03/margaret-drabble-pattern-carpet

The power of jigsaws!

2010-03-05T15:39:00.004+13:00

Here's an interesting article about the power of jigsaws and how jigsaw puzzles have helped author, Margaret Drabble with her depression:

The puzzling power of jigsaws
Time-wasters or sanity savers? Cassandra Jardine ponders the power of the jigsaw.

I am bereft. Each time I pass my kitchen table, emptiness assails me. Flowers, salt, pepper – all the usual clutter are there – but no jigsaw. I am happiest when there is a 1,000-piecer half-done, ready for me to tinker with whenever I am passing. I crave the buzz that comes when an incomprehensible set of squiggles finds its home but, once I start, I can't stop. Only backache saves me from staying up all night working on The Rokeby Venus's curves.

Jigsaws are a harmless addiction, unless you share the Puritan view, expressed by Daniel Defoe, that: "The killing of time is the worst of murders." In the privacy of our own homes, thousands of us thrive on our daily fix.Theatre producer Michael Codron has done a jigsaw a day for more than 30 years.

The Pattern in the Carpet by Margaret Drabble: review "I like making order out of chaos," she says. The Queen is another jigsaw junkie: for many years she has been a keen borrower from the British Jigsaw Puzzle Library, some of whose 3,500 wooden puzzles have been returned, it is rumoured, with the odd Corgi bite mark.

Princess Margaret was thought to have been another jigsaw addict but in reality she did not share her sister's enthusiasm, at least in later life. After her death in 2002, it was said that no fewer than 1,700 jigsaws were found in her attic, well-intentioned but unopened gifts.

Jigsaws, though, make excellent presents. They are silent, calming and can be combined with a little light social life. And they are gloriously cheap compared with other amusements, which explains why weekly cardboard puzzles became a national obsession in the US after the crash of 1929. That boom led to a bust all of its own when, in December 1932, a terrible period known as the Jigsaw Famine ensued.

Our current recession may show jigsaw history repeating itself. Jigsaws need a new champion and now they have one in the surprising form of Dame Margaret Drabble whose latest book, The Pattern on the Carpet, is subtitled "A personal history with jigsaws". As she explains, puzzles saved her sanity when her husband, biographer Michael Holroyd, was diagnosed with bowel cancer. While he had operations and treatment, Drabble was homebound.

Too distracted to read, she felt herself "sinking into paranoia and depression" – until she started doing jigsaws. Piecing together framed pictures gave her "an illusion of control" when everything else was uncertain. They also made a "clumsy" woman feel dexterous.

Puzzles may be done slowly but they cannot be done badly, which is one reason why they appeal to small children who start with pegged pieces and graduate to television spin-offs. Unlike adults, who start with the edge, they go straight to the drama: having completed the dinosaur, they often leave the rest. My children have outgrown that phase and now hover while I am doing a puzzle, safe in talking to me because they have only half my concentration. Sometimes they help but mostly they laugh at me because jigsaws aren't clever like crosswords, nor a quick-fix like Sudoku.

In time, they may see the point of them again. Although puzzle-makers are usually men, the vast majority of those who do them are women of a certain age. "They add 10 years to people's lives," says Dave Cooper, who runs the Jigsaw Puzzle Library, some of whose members are in their nineties. "They are so absorbing that you forget your problems."

That need for diversion is not exclusive to any age group and last month Katie Best, a 27-year-old business school lecturer who chairs the Islington Women's Institute, staged a competitive jigsaw night. "I thought I was the only person who liked them," she says, "but, of our committee of 10, six said they were secret puzzlers."

The Islington teams tackled a reproduction Fifties puzzle. Those are perennial favourites, along with (groan) animals and thatched cottages. Maps, the first jigsaws – famously mentioned by Jane Austen in Mansfield Park – continue to be popular.

But jigsaw fashions come and go. The Duke and Duchess of Windsor created a vogue for puzzles containing "whimsies" – specific shapes – in their case, Scottie dogs. Murder Mystery puzzles were the rage a few years ago, as were 3D models. Currently, comedy Wasgijs are big sellers, according to online retailers, who talk of a revival.

Along with Drabble and Codron, I prefer art puzzles because, in return for the investment of time, you gain a unique familiarity with a great painting.

I've now done all those the National Gallery has on sale and must wait until the autumn for new releases. A wooden Wentworth puzzle – one of Codron's favourite – is in the post.

Hence my empty table.

By Cassandra Jardine c/o The Telegraph
http://www.telegraph.co.uk

WASGIJ Destiny 10 High Street Hassle

2010-03-05T15:13:00.004+13:00

Here's advance notice - the latest in the WASGIJ Destiny series - High Street Hassle - is now available. Battle your way through the shoppers on crazy Wasgij High Steet, if you dare! Remember the picture you are looking at above is just a clue as to what is inside. What have the characters seen? Piece together the clues to form the hilarious solution!

Have some fun!!

2010-02-15T17:17:00.004+13:00

Just in case you have some spare time, here is a bit of fun. Try this online jigsaw - just click on the picture to mix the pieces, then click and drag the individual pieces to where you ant them. (Thanks to Jigzone for making this possible)
">

Gluing a puzzle

2010-02-13T12:58:00.005+13:00

After all the hard work of piecing together a jigsaw puzzle it is very rewarding to glue the finished work and mount it on the wall for all to see. A common mistake people make is to use PVA, or a wood glue, and glue it from the back. Not a good idea! Not only can this cause the pieces to swell, and then the puzzle won't lie flat, but it is messy to do. Especially formulated puzzle fixative is available, and it is gently applied to the front of the puzzle with a soft cloth, finger or the applicator sponge that comes with some brands. It seeps into the joins and also adds a gloss to the surface of the puzzle, which improves the look, and also helps to repell dust.
Pathway Puzzles sells the puzzle fixative and can also send a tip sheet we have developed after a number of years gluing jigsaws. Just send us an email and we will happily send it to you.

Valentines day is not far away!

2010-02-06T15:32:00.009+13:00

Valentine's day - February 14th.
Go on - send your Valentine a jigsaw greeting card. These are unigue and only available in New Zealand from Pathway Puzzles. Write your message on the back of the jigsaw, break it up, post it for the cost of a standard letter. Your Valentine wil then have to put the jigsaw together to get your message!!
20 pieces, and cheap at $6.00 each!!

Or how about this 500 piece shaped jigsaw - isn't it just the cutest!

Visit our website for more ideas!

New shaped jigsaws from Sunsout

2010-01-25T08:05:00.008+13:00

We always get excited when a new shipment of puzzles arrives here at Pathway Puzzles, and especially when it is from Sunsout in America. It was from 12 of their shaped jigsaws that we launched our business just over two years ago. How time has moved on and we have grown in that time! Sunsouts shaped jigsaws have changed too. They have now started to include hidden images within the puzzle, which adds another whole dimension. For example, in the Proud Peacock jigsaw are hidden 6 hummingbirds and 3 tree frogs.

Included in the shipment are two beautiful new shaped butterflies for those who collect these!
Wings of colour.
Fantasy Butterfly.

Keep an eye on the Blog as we are expecting new puzzles from Ravensburger soon.

Which jigsaw manufacturer is your favourite??

2010-01-15T09:05:00.004+13:00

We are regularly emailed to ask if we have the jigsaws of a particular manufactuer or jigsaws by a particular artist. We do try to keep a good range of puzzles in stock from all the manufacturers we can get here in New Zealand. Thanks to your feedback, we are now adding the manufacturer to our entry for each jigsaw on the website.
But we would love to here from you. What manufacturer is your facourite - Nz's own Holdsons, Ravensburger, Sunsout, Ceaco, Jumbo, Falcon, Heye... the list goes on. Send us a comment below, tell us which you prefer and most importantly why?

Happy New Year!!

2009-12-30T11:00:00.004+13:00

The Team at Pathway Puzzles would like to wish all our clients and readers best wishes, good health and happiness for 2010.
We are pleased to be having a brief break from the frantic wrap and despatch of the last few weeks.
Our stocks of jigsaws are a bit depleted at the moment, but new stock will be arriving in January, so keep a look out on the website.
In the meantime, here are a couple of delights still in stock.

Formel Fun
Both are 1000 pieces.
Proud as a Peacock

Its not too late to order!

2009-12-17T06:29:00.003+13:00

It is not too late to order for Christmas. We have noticed the couriers are starting to take a day longer to get deliveries made, but we despatch next day, so there is still time!

It is still early morning, and there is a beautiful day ahead. Where I sit the sun is glistening just as it is in this beautiful dawn scene - Morning Glory by Ravensburger.

I just love the birds and the colours in Time for Lunch also by Ravensburger.

So there is still heaps of choice. But don't delay much longer. Take a look at our website now.

Christmas is coming!!

2009-12-11T18:00:00.006+13:00

Its just two weeks today 'til Christmas day. It's not too late to order online for Christmas, but be in quick, as stock is moving fast. Why not buy a Christmas themed jigsaw for all the family to work on over the festive season?

WASGIJ Christmas 4 - White Christmas.

Ho! Ho! Ho! is 1000 pieces shaped. Lots of fun for all.

Kitten jigsaws in a tin - stocking stuffers

2009-12-07T20:58:00.003+13:00

We have just received the cutest 1000 piece kitten jigsaws in a collectable tin. They are the ideal stocking fillers. The colours on the tins are metallic in look, and the kittens are just so cute. Also, at $25 they are inexpensive. Collect them all - they'd look great glued and on the wall as a set!

jigsaws with large pieces

2009-11-28T17:01:00.006+13:00

Do you love doing jigsaws, but get frustrated that you can no longer see the detail on the pieces well enough? Or do you know someone in that position? I find that I now need to have a light behind me so I'm not working in my shadow. We have just added another range of large piece jigsaws to our collection. These do make it easier to see the detail and jigsaw fans with less than perfect vision, or who find handling the little pieces fiddly, do love them.
What more, we are the only company in New Zealand (that we know of anyway) that has a selection of these for sale. Check out our range here.

What size jigsaw do you prefer??

2009-11-14T14:56:00.003+13:00

I usually stick with the 1000 - 1500 piece jigsaws. They're manageable, fit in my portapuzzle and I finish them in a reasonable length of time without getting bored. But I know some of you find a 1000 piece jigsaw just isn't challenging enough. For others its too much. How about you? What size do you like best and why? Send us a comment - we'd love to hear from you. Click on the comments link below.

New series of cat puzzles

2009-11-11T15:08:00.009+13:00

We have just received a new series of cat puzzles by Lesley Anne Ivory. They have just 300 extra large pieces, so are suitable for children and adults who have difficulty handling the small pieces of a standard puzzle.

Lesley Anne Ivory is a most talented cat artist. Cats play an important part in Lesley Anne's life and the majority of her paintings are portraits of her own feline family.

Great news! WASGIJ Christmas 4 is out!

2009-11-09T21:23:00.004+13:00

I am so excited! I just love the WASGIJ puzzles, and WASGIJ Christmas 4 has just been released. It is called "White Christmas" and this time The Salvation Army is spreading the Christmas Spirit by singing carols. But what has caught the eye of the man up the ladder? What he has seen is the picture you have to complete! As you all know, the picture on the box is not the picture on the puzzle.
We will have these in stock soon, and if you are a collector of WASGIJ puzzles, don't delay, as they are only available for Christmas and soon go out of stock.

Let us find the puzzle you are looking for

2009-11-08T20:41:00.003+13:00

We are frequently asked if we can find particular jigsaws - on a specific topic, or brand, size or title. We have access to many more jigsaws than we can possibly have in stock, so we are only too happy to check out the catalogues anad order in any that you may especially want. We enjoy doing the research, and we love making you happy. So, dont be afraid to ask us!! Just click here and send us a message.

More new children's jigsaws

2009-11-04T14:55:00.006+13:00

We are expanding our range of children's jigsaws at your request! Now as well as the floor puzzles, we have increased the number of 100 - 300 piece jigsaws. These are not easy to find in the shops we know. Take a look at these:

More fabulous floor puzzles!

2009-10-23T18:27:00.006+13:00

This delightful range of floor puzzles has just arrived - in time for Christmas shopping. These are great stocking fillers. The littlies will love them. They feature our favourite fairy tale characters - Hansel and Gretel, The three little pigs and Red Riding Hood. They have 20 extra large pieces, and measure 66 x 47 cms when complete.

Children's floor puzzles

2009-10-10T20:31:00.004+13:00

Due to demand we have increased our range of floor puzzles for the little ones. These are beautiful - double sided, 46 extra large pieces for little hands. Be in quick, they won't last!!

Posting overseas for Christmas

2009-09-30T17:58:00.003+13:00

Just a reminder that Christmas is just around the corner, and here at Pathway Puzzles we are getting all geared up for the 'crazy' season. Why not get in early - do your Christmas shopping now, on line at our website.

We can send your choice of puzzle gift wrapped with your message attached any where in the world, in time for Christmas.

Puzzles by the artist Victoria Francis

2009-09-25T17:17:00.005+12:00

We have just restocked puzzles by the Spanish artist Victoria Frances. Her evocative, expressive paintings, depict stories in the Gothic Romantic style. Characterised by desolate and melancholic atmospheres, her work is hugely popular around the world, and each piece produced by Educa, translates into a wonderful jigsaw. The two images here, butterfly and The Lovers, are imensely popular.

Gluing a puzzle

2009-09-16T15:40:00.005+12:00

Just recently I was talking to a customer who was having one of our puzzles framed. She had paid over $20 to the framer to get the puzzle glued. She was somewhat dismayed when I told her we could have sold her a whole bottle of puzzle fixative (enough for two 1000 piece puzzles) for $10.00.

There are two brands of fixative available on our website. The Holdsons brand has enough fixative for two puzzles, depending on how thickly you put it on. The Ravensburger one is larger, will do 6-8 puzzles, and has a useful sponge tip to help with the spreading.

The other key thing about gluing jigsaws with proper puzzle fixative is to glue it on the picture side, not the back of the puzzle. It gives a lovely gloss finish - the more coats, the higher the gloss. It also helps as a dust repellent.

A new WASGIJ - no. 15

2009-09-05T15:45:00.006+12:00

At last another WASGIJ for the WASGIJ fans - number 15. Run like the wind. This time the scene is at the racers. What commotion is going on on the track?? As usual there are a lot of expression filled faces, and a busy background to make the puzzle intriquing and humorous.

Special children's puzzles

2009-08-25T07:56:00.006+12:00

Little ones will absolutely love these puzzles. Complete the 500 piece puzzle, glue it together with the puzzle glue that is included, and then glue on the 55 sparkly gems that are also included. It comes with instructions and a suggestion guide. What fun!!

Lost Treasure

Moonlight fairy

Shaped jigsaws

2009-08-15T14:44:00.004+12:00

I can't help thinking there is something particularly special about shaped jigsaws. These were the first puzzles we stocked when we started the company. I have done a few of them now, and each time I get a real thrill out of watching them develop. Because they don't have a regular rectangle shape they 'grow' in all directions, depending on the picture. They are Sunsout brand, and a particularly good quality of jigsaw.

New Educa jigsaws

2009-08-04T14:52:00.005+12:00

We have just received a shipment of new Educa puzzles. Educa puzzles have been manufactured in Barcelona, Spain for over 20 years, and are very high quality jigsaws. Their puzzles are made using ‘green and blue board’, a thick high quality paperboard which ensures a perfect fit between pieces, with very little puzzle dust. In addition, Educa puzzles come with sachets of puzzle glue included ready for gluing the completed puzzle! Amboseli National Park has magnificent colouring, and is just 1000 pieces.
London Bridge is also 1000 pieces, but it glows in the dark for an extra treat when finished. Remember that puzzle glue is included!

floor puzzle map of the world

2009-07-29T12:37:00.004+12:00

We are often asked for a map of the world suitable for children, and at last we have been able to get a floor puzzle map of the world. It is bright and attractive, and also has flags of the various countries. It has just 100 pieces, and also includes a poster. It also comes in a good sturdy box so it can all be stored away until the next time it is used. Highly recommended.

Scramble Squares

2009-07-25T14:33:00.004+12:00

We have recently moved away, just slightly, from jigsaws, and bought some scramble squares. These are sooo much fun! Real family entertainment. Although each Scramble Squares puzzle has only nine 4" x 4" pieces, Scramble Squares puzzles are Perhaps the World's Most Challenging Puzzle! They are inexpensive, but highly entertaining and valued gifts for both men and women alike... Scramble Squares puzzles are Easy To Play, But Hard To Solve!

Each Scramble Squares puzzle package includes a panel of fascinating factual information on the subject of the puzzle, as well as a trivia question and hidden answer, all packaged in a unique and handy heavy duty resealable vinyl travel pouch, which may be collected and stored easily in a standard 3-ring binder. The vinyl pouch is crystal clear, enabling the consumer to see the extraordinary beauty of the puzzles' realistic original art.

Scramble Squares teach critical thinking/problem solving skills, patience, perseverance, statistical probability, cooperative and solitary productivity.

Blank jigsaws

2009-07-21T17:05:00.003+12:00

We often get asked if we have blank jigsaws that can be drawn on. Well the answer is yes! They are just 20 pieces, 21.5 x 18 cms and are ideal for kids to draw on. They can't be put through a printer as they are already cut and wouldn't curve. But they are inexpensive at just $2.00 each, so the next time you are looking for something to entertain the children during the holidays, or just want something original for them to do as a gift for grandparents, or teachers, think about blank jigsaws.

New Ceaco velvet jigsaws

2009-07-09T17:03:00.006+12:00

We have just received a shipment of velvet jigsaws from Ceaco. The backs of the pieces are covered in velvet, or really, its more like felt. This makes the pieces a bit thicker than the standard pieces. They fit well, and it gives the puzzle a sturdy, non slip backing. Makes the jigsaw easier to do if you are working on a piece of board, or perhaps you find handling the usual pieces a bit tricky.

The images are really beautiful too. They make wonderfully unique gifts.

This one is called 'Autumn Angel'.

Here is 'Ombria in shadow'

Double sided puzzles

2009-06-23T16:06:00.006+12:00

My latest addiction in jigsaws is double sided ones - not only do you have to sort them by colours and shape, but you also have to have the pieces up the right way. Now thats tricky! So if you're up for the challenge, give a double sided jigsaw a go. We have several in stock:

Smiley Faces is just one in the Worlds Most Difficult Jigsaw Puzzle series. There is also one called Cats and another called Dalmations. Whew, they are 500 pieces of sheer challenge!

Dream Horse is not only shaped, but is also double sided. It is amazing, and a delight to do. I really recommend this one.

More new puzzles!

2009-06-09T18:16:00.007+12:00

As promised, here are another couple of new Ravensburger jigsaws added to our website http://www.pathwaypuzzles.co.nz/

This amazing jigsaw is called Fairy Forest, 1000 pieces, artwork is by the artist Eckhart Freytag.

Bird lovers will adore this puzzle called Time for lunch. 1000 pieces.

New Ravensburger jigsaws just received

2009-06-07T16:09:00.007+12:00

We have just received some fabulous new jigsaws from Ravensburger, including some more many pieces (2000 - 3,000 pieces) ones. These are always in demand, and trying to keep a variety available is challenging.
Here is St Peters Cathedral a new 3000 piece puzzle. And this beautiful floral arrangement is called Rose bouquet, 1000 pieces. I'll show more over the next day or so.

Welcome!!

2009-06-04T08:23:00.004+12:00

Welcome to those of you who are reading this blog for the first time. Please feel free to leave us a comment - just click on the leave comment box at the end of this entry. We look forward to hearing from you.

How do you start a jigsaw?
I was just talking to a friend at the weekend and we got to discussing this. I always sort out the edge pieces and sort the rest into broad groups of similar colours or patterns as I go. my friend says she dives in and looks for the pieces to a particular part of the picture she wants to do and does that, putting the edge together just as she finds the pieces. How do you start a jigsaw? Leave us a comment!!

Sight and Sound puzzles

2009-05-26T17:40:00.007+12:00

Now Winter is really setting in, these sight and sound puzzles are the answer to wet and wild afternoon indoors. Four 250 piece jigsaws and a CD of music. There are two to choose from - Handel's inspired 'Water Music' (performed by the Mayfair Philharmonic Orchestra) or sounds of the rainforest - bringing the atmosphere alive as you surround yourself with the croaks of frogs, the chatter of monkeys and musical bird calls interrupted by a tropical downpour.

Such a brilliant idea, and a great gift!