27-Dec-2024
Today, I am working on the crafting and attaching of the Aruki for a 5-sun 27-step puzzle box. As I’ve mentioned before, in types where four panels move, the next panel to move (especially the top and bottom panels) slides over the previous panel (Aruki) that moved. As the steps progress, this can make the panels a bit harder to move.
To address this, I attach the side Aruki panels slightly looser. This is particularly important for people using a puzzle box for the first time. Even if they follow the correct steps, if the mechanisms are too tight and won’t move, they might mistakenly think they’re doing it wrong.
writing of attaching loosely, the underside lid (bottom Aruki) is also installed a bit loosely. This particular underside Aruki tends to feel stiff when moved since it requires pressing against its surface to slide forward. Once the box is fully assembled, it becomes difficult to adjust, so I make sure to attach it loosely at this stage.
Before attaching the final side panels (such as Yosegi), I check the movement again. This is essential because once the side panels are in place, the bottom panel can no longer be removed.
Today, I also prepared the Yosegi panels for the top and bottom surfaces as part of the next steps. This time, I plan to make three limited-edition solid wood boxes.
The photo shows the top and bottom panels for these boxes. While traditional Yosegi models are undoubtedly the most popular for puzzle boxes, I always include a few solid wood types in my product lineup. Although the quantity is limited, there are customers specifically looking for these solid wood versions.
Today marks the beginning of a holiday period for many companies in Japan. Of course, various retailers and service industries continue to work, but many manufacturing businesses like ours take a break starting today.
However, my workshop will continue operating tomorrow and beyond, so I’ll keep updating the production progress next week as well😁
