Introduction: Wood Ring Puzzle (horseshoe Style)

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This is my take on the 'horseshoe' ring puzzle... hope it inspires you to make your own version...

Supplies

Luan (you'll need two 2.5" square pieces, so a 2.5" x 5" rectangle will do quite nicely)

String

metal ring (1 3/4" ID, 1 15/16" OD - available from any craft store)

3/4" forstner bit

5mm wood drill bit

Band saw

finishing products (shellac, enamel, etc.)

  1. My faves: Rustoleum oil-based enamel (qt. size, with foam brushes) and Zinsser spray shellac
  2. Feel free to use whatever you want to 'finish off' the wood

open flame (cigarette lighter)

Step 1: Cut the Blanks

You need two 2.5" square pieces - I used luan for my prototype...

Step 2: Cut the Center Hole

Use the 3/4" forstner bit

  1. Cut out in each piece (double them up, if possible)
  2. watch for blowout on the back

Step 3: Cut the Notches

Using the Band saw, cut out the notch to match the dimensions of the 3/4" hole

  1. Do this in each..
  2. Cut from the non-rounded-end side of the blank... ;-)

Step 4: Drill the String Holes

Drill the 5mm holes in each 'end'

  1. 4, in total, or double up the blanks...
  2. again, watch for blowout on the back

Step 5: Finish the Pieces

Sand all the edges if the two pieces...

Also, This version, since it is my prototype, is finished with shellac.

Future versions will, likely be oil-based enamel (my fave finish), then shellac

Step 6: Tie the Strings

Connect the ends with string, and use a cigarette lighter to 'lock it in'...

Step 7: Enjoy the Game

No, I'm not going to give you the secret... :)

It's easy enough to Google...

Nonetheless, enjoy the puzzle...