Shapes Puzzle for Child

[jvbscroller]

This shapes puzzle is a fun toy for a child and helps them learn about shapes. I found it very challenging to make.  

       

Board -- 12" X 16".  Could be larger or smaller as you wish.

Consists of two layers. For the top layer, in which the shapes fit, I used 1/4" MDF. For the bottom layer, I used 1/4" birch plywood. Both layers could be plywood or MDF.  The idea is that the shapes will fit so that each shape rises above the puzzle back and can easily be picked up.

A very big challenge is making the five-sided shapes, the star and clover, fit correctly.  They must be completely regular, that is, each of the five sections must match exactly so the shape will fit into the opening no matter how the child puts it in.  At first, I tried to use Christmas decoration patterns bought from a craft store, but I found they are not regular and therefore not suitable except for the circle and the square.

Shapes -- each is approximately 4" X 4" and is 1/2" thick. 

Valentine - one piece  

Star - one piece  

Clover - one piece  

Triangle - two pieces  

Circle - three pieces  

Square - four pieces (Shown here as one piece but cut into four pieces.)   

 

Cut Shapes and Sand.  I used a band saw and a disc sander.

      

Arrange shapes on puzzle, mark and cut.  For this cutting, I used a scroll saw.  The next part is difficult.  Make the pieces fit into the puzzle and rotate.  This step required a lot of sanding. 

  

When you are satisfied with how the shapes fit into the board, then glue front of board to back, prime and paint.

     

Edited September 1, 2020 by jvbscroller

[wombatie]

That will get plenty of play time, all small children would love it.

Marg

[Tomanydogs]

Great for learning. Well done. 

[amazingkevin]

On 9/1/2020 at 12:14 AM, jvbscroller said:

This shapes puzzle is a fun toy for a child and helps them learn about shapes. I found it very challenging to make.  

       

Board -- 12" X 16".  Could be larger or smaller as you wish.

Consists of two layers. For the top layer, in which the shapes fit, I used 1/4" MDF. For the bottom layer, I used 1/4" birch plywood. Both layers could be plywood or MDF.  The idea is that the shapes will fit so that each shape rises above the puzzle back and can easily be picked up.

A very big challenge is making the five-sided shapes, the star and clover, fit correctly.  They must be completely regular, that is, each of the five sections must match exactly so the shape will fit into the opening no matter how the child puts it in.  At first, I tried to use Christmas decoration patterns bought from a craft store, but I found they are not regular and therefore not suitable except for the circle and the square.

Shapes -- each is approximately 4" X 4" and is 1/2" thick. 

Valentine - one piece  

Star - one piece  

Clover - one piece  

Triangle - two pieces  

Circle - three pieces  

Square - four pieces (Shown here as one piece but cut into four pieces.)   

 

Cut Shapes and Sand.  I used a band saw and a disc sander.

      

Arrange shapes on puzzle, mark and cut.  For this cutting, I used a scroll saw.  The next part is difficult.  Make the pieces fit into the puzzle and rotate.  This step required a lot of sanding. 

  

When you are satisfied with how the shapes fit into the board, then glue front of board to back, prime and paint.

     

Tray puzzles are best for kids, good job!!!

[spirithorse]

Nicely done!
I made a shape puzzle that had the box and the shapes fit through the sides
and, I agree with you, it was deceptively hard to get the shapes almost perfect
for the openings.

Thanks for sharing and God Bless! Spirithorse
 

[John B]

Great job. I love toys especially handmade, educational ones.