Help Needed

[Kathy McCurdy]

Being new to trick puzzles, you'd think I'd be smarter than to start with Empress Pearl. Well, I'm not!

I've put EP together and have ended up with 3 circles of legs...just like the photo on Stave's website, so I know it's not right. I became so frustrated I flipped the puzzle over to put it together while looking at the grain. That didn't help. Still ended up with the 3 circles. Can anyone give me a hint....not the answer but a hint on how to proceed?

[Kathy McCurdy]

Hi Deborah! I've got about 7 puzzles now and just bought the whole Circus Train. Am going to have a "puzzle" fall weekend with my kids where we will all have a puzzle to do. Should be fun. We're having a picnic/party today and will call to invite you. Then we can talk about what you're going to purchase next!! I also see you a kayaking enthusiastic as are my two daughters who will be here.

[Deborah Moore]

Hello!
I sent you a note a few months back in response to you query about puzzle sharing and invited you to call if you want to talk. I never post my phone number but you'll find me in the phone book on Buell Hill. I work at the Wadsworth Mansion in Middletown 860 347 1064 -it is easier to find me there. I didn't read your blog as I have been toying with the idea of getting one of the more challenging trick puzzles. I hope you succeeded.

[Kathy McCurdy]

Thank you, Elizabeth, and I will try not to swear at you while I do so! :-)

[Elizabeth]

I cut that puzzle for you, Kathy...Empress Pearl is one of my favorites, but not easy to start with as a first trick puzzle as there are many pieces that fit with more than one other piece! To get a continuous body, you might start by dividing the circles in half horizontally.

[Sebastian]

A very beautiful puzzle, but not the easiest for your first taste of trick puzzles.

Last did this puzzle a few years back - but from memory, you need to aim for a continuous dragon body. Easier said than done.

In general for trick puzzles, keep a sharp eye out for pieces that have interlocks that allow them to connect perfectly to more than one other piece.