I received an email late last week from Alan(Papa G). He sent me a few pictures of the standing puzzles he has been making from photographs. I knew as soon as I saw them that I had to share them with you guys. I ask Paga G if he would write up his technique for this post. Thanks Papa.For those of you that work the craft shows I think these could be good sellers. Make up a few of these to display and take custom orders.
Papa G's Technique:The wood that I like to use for my standing puzzles is 3/4 inch poplar. I take most of my pictures with a digital camera. After I get the picture I want to use I put it on Corel Draw, erase what I don't want to use, and then make it the size I want for the final piece. I then glue it to the board with a good spray glue. I use 3M Super 77 glue. It works good for me. Spray both the paper and the board. I use a number 3 reversed tooth blade, and I work the blade slow.(Note from Steve, Papa free hand cuts the puzzle pieces. This is not that difficult with a little practice. After a few pieces you will have it down.) A mop sander is then used to smooth the back side of the puzzle. To finish the puzzle I use one light coat of clear lacquer, then wait overnight and put one more heavier coat of clear lacquer on. I hope you enjoy making them as much as I do.
Alan (Papa G)
Close up of technique
This last picture shows the same technique without cutting the puzzle pattern.
These could make a nice Christmas present for family and friends. Thanks again Papa G for sharing.Make A Donation