- 1). Measure the board to the desired shape and dimensions of your four-piece puzzle and mark the edges with your pencil. A square shape will generally work the easiest, but a rectangular or even circular puzzle is possible if you begin with those shapes. Cut the board to match the dimensions you have marked out.
- 2). Draw the shapes of the puzzle pieces that you'd like the puzzle to have on the prepared board. To achieve roughly equal sized pieces, mark the middle spot on each outer edge before you begin, or draw two light lines across the board, dissecting it both vertically and horizontally. Then adjust the shape of your puzzle pieces so that they will interlock when cut.
- 3). Cut out the puzzle pieces with a scroll saw or jig saw, being careful to make smooth, even curves and edges. Once the pieces are cut apart, erase any stray pencil markings from their faces to leave a blank surface free of markings.
- 4). Gently sand the rough edges or curves on your puzzle pieces to ensure that they won't leave splinters or hurt little fingers when played with.
- 5). Paint the finished puzzle with shellac and allow it to dry overnight to give the puzzle a shiny, smooth finish that enhances the appearance of the wood (optional).
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