Identify a puzzle without knowing its name

Puzzle Solutions by Piece Count & Shape

Count the pieces, choose the overall shape and compare photographs from the Crafty Puzzles solution archive.

Many people inherit a wooden puzzle without its box or instructions. Piece count is often the quickest clue: a 6-piece cross, 12-piece ball, 24-piece star and 27-cube Snake Cube need completely different solutions even when their names are unknown.

Already assembled? Count visible sections if you can, then choose a shape. If the piece count is uncertain, leave it blank and use shape or keywords. For a completely unknown puzzle, try the guided Puzzle Finder or private Photo Identifier.

Photograph comparison

Matching puzzle solutions

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6 pieces often includes classic crosses, burrs and small stars. 9 pieces includes Japanese Crystal and Comet-style puzzles. 12 pieces appears across balls, burrs, stars and other interlocking constructions. 24 pieces includes larger stars and burr-style puzzles. 27 cubes is a common clue for Snake Cube and Chequer Cube-style hinged chains.

Piece count alone cannot prove an identification. Always compare the photograph and component shapes before following an assembly sequence.

Puzzle instruction image