Whiskered Enchantment
401 Pieces, with 28 Figurals
Cutting: Genuine Cherry Ply
Approximate Size: 13 inches x 13 inches
Completed: April 22, 2010
Original Artwork: "Spellbound," Copywrite Jean and Ron Henry
The collar which the kitten was created by the addition of inset Swarovski crystals, and the heart locket, which removes as a Figural, was cut with a heart shaped "gem" set at it's center.
I used three distinct cutting styles in this puzzle to try to create different effects and moods. The ground area of the puzzle is cut in my traditional style, while the sky areas are cut in a swirl/curl style to add an element of "magic." The kitten was cut in a jagged style with club shaped tabs as an attempt to give her fur some texture.
I also implemented a large amount of color line cutting into this puzzle (probably more than I've used in any one I've cut in the past). In fact, each of the fairies are actually puzzles within the puzzle.
I tried to use my kerf as a paintbrush in this puzzle to create cutting styles for mood and effect, as mentioned, and to add detail to some Figurals, and a few other special surprises.
Here, I used my kerf to create a small spider web between a dandelion stem and a leaf. If you look carefully, you'll find it. The web disassembles into several pieces.
I was happy as always to see so many Figurals jump into my puzzle. The subject matter of the painting attracted various sprites, fairies and insects to pay a visit! In addition, many star Figurals adorn the sky.
Here, a bumble bee can be seen sampling some nectar, while a fairy sits atop a dandelion. A gentle ladybug slowly crawls up a stem to see what all of the fuss is about.
Here you can see some of the kerf work I added to some of my Figurals to help give them definition. This is the first puzzle where I've added this element.
This playful fairy has decided to pull the dandelion down a bit so that Buff the Magic Dragon can sample a smell of it's flower.
....And this young sprite is simply enjoying the view.
I wonder what secrets are being whispered into the kitten's ear?
Meanwhile, down on the ground, two young lovebirds experiment with their first kiss while hiding shyly under the cover of a blooming flower.
Speaking of lovebirds, Spring is in the air, and even these two caterpillars are taking time to get acquainted!
This puzzle was cut as a gift for my wife on Mother's Day, so two of the Fairy Figurals were designed with my children in mind. My daughter's pigtails were a must!! In the puzzle, they can be seen leaping from a leaf to a flower (well at least one makes the leap while the other watches carefully to see if it's safe).
These two boys are surely planning something which is likely to stir some trouble about in the field.
Of course, despite all of the happenings going on, sometimes there is nothing better than just lying on the grass and enjoying a good book! Maybe it's a book full of Kitten Tales!
She just shouldn't get too comfortable lying on the grass, however, or she's likely to get walked on by a bug!
