When Solving isn’t Enough

When I decided to include puzzles in the scope of this blog I began thinking of the various types of puzzles I was aware of. I have a few in possession, but there are some others that I have lost or never owned. One of the ways I intend to make up the deficit is to build some of the ones I want to add to my collection. To be worthwhile they should be attractive enough to sit on a desk in an office space as a decoration. This means I will likely use wood as often as possible. I don't intend to figure out my own designs, but find suitable plans on the Internet. This works best if you know what kind of puzzles you are searching for. I started by searching for a particular type whose name I know because I do own it, then expanded. The puzzle is called a yoke puzzle, which is based on its shape, and it is a type that challenges the player to manipulate string that has been run through various shapes of wood. The idea is to move or release a steel ring that is trapped on the string. As I searched these out I found a great source for many plans - the account of mtairymd on Instructables.  So far I have built two of the many plans. I will be refining one of those builds and building at least one more in the near future. The plans do not immediately give away the solution, but typically refer the builder to a solution on YouTube. For a closer look, check out the account at instructables.com/member/mtairymd . 

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