Introduction: Chocolate Box Puzzle

About: I like to design and build random things.

This is a fun and easy project to make. The goal is to fit the blocks of "chocolate" into the box. Compared to my other puzzles, I would rate the difficulty of this puzzle as a 2 out 5.

Below is a quick video of the solution.

I felt like this version was pretty easy to make but if you are not up to it, feel to purchase a similar version from online.

Step 1: Tools/Materials

Tools:

  • Table Saw
  • Router Table
  • Router Bit (1/4" V)
  • Drill
  • Forstner Bit (1" Diameter)
  • Wood Clamps
  • Sander
  • Ruler
  • Pencil

Materials:

  • Wood - 5.5" x 24" x 5/16" thick
  • Wood Glue
  • Paint/Stain (optional)

Step 2: Box

The box is used to house the chocolate pieces. The build is pretty straightforward.

Step 3: Floor

Cut the floor of the box to the dimensions shown.

Step 4: Box Front/Back

Cut to the size shown.

Step 5: Box Sides

The sides have finger grabs. The final dimensions are shown. I found it easier to cut a wide piece and drill the hole in the center. I then used a table saw to cut the part into two pieces.

Step 6: Assemble Box

Use wood glue and clamps to attach the sides to the floor.

Step 7: Puzzle Pieces

The parts will fit in the box as shown.

Step 8: Blocks

You will be building to these dimensions. The following quantities (numbers represent blocks of chocolate) are required:

  • 2x5 (x1)
  • 2x3 (x2)
  • 2x2 (x1)
  • 2x1 (x2)
  • 1x3 (x2)
  • 1x2 (x2)

Step 9: Notches

I used a V shaped 1/4" router bit to cut the notches for the blocks.

Step 10: Blocks

A table saw was used to cut the individual blocks once the notches were included. At this point, you might want to consider painting or staining the pieces. I used a walnut stain for mine.

Step 11: Block Assemblies

You will need to make these 3 assemblies from the blocks.

Step 12: Glue

I used wood glue and clamps for the joints.

Step 13: Ready to Solve

The puzzle is handed to your test subject in this manner.

Step 14: Final Pictures

The wood cost was about $2 and it took about 3 hours to make. Overall, I'm pretty happy with how it turned out.

Step 15: Stop Motion of Solution

Ok, I was bored. Here is a quick stop-motion of the solution.

Thanks for viewing!

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