Welcome to the first annual Stewart Coffin Puzzle Craft Competition. In honor of Stewart Coffin for his many contributions to the world of fine puzzles, the goal of this juried competition is to encourage amateur craftsmen to try their hand at the fine art of puzzlecraft.

A great challange awaits you! Due to the interlocking and multi-dimensional nature of puzzles, great precision and attention to detail is necessary to create a satisfying result. If chosen as a finalist, your reward could be one of the following prizes:

1st prize: $500 Cash, an Incra LS Positioner System, as well as a possible invitation to become a cubicdissection.com member artist!
2nd Prize: $200 Cash and an Incra Build It System Starter Kit Package

WHERE TO START:
If you have never crafted a puzzle before, click here for free information and resources to get you started on your way to precision.

CONTEST RULES:
-One entry per person
-Entries are limited to mechanical puzzles which fall under the Slocum Classification of interlocking, take apart or put together
-Entrants must be amateurs, i.e. have never sold more than 5 puzzles for any sum, or any single puzzle for more than $100, or have won a prize in the Puzzle Craft competition before
-All entries must be postmarked by September 15th, 2008. Winners will be announced by November 30th, 2008.
-Entries are limited to puzzles 6"X6"X6" or smaller, no heavier then 4 lbs, and must be manufactured predominantly from wood (other materials are permissable for mechanical or decorative purposes).
-Participants agree to pay for return shipping, which will be limited to the cost of postage and packaging - no handling fees will be added. All entries will be returned by January 30th, 2009 (probably much sooner). Any entry with unpaid return postage by that date will be forfeited and disposed of.
Full contest rules, terms and conditions available here.

JUDGING CRITERIA:
You do not have to design an original puzzle to win! The judging criteria stresses worksmanship, precision and appeal:
-Overall quality of craftsmanship (attention to detail, precision and geometric uniformity, fit, finish)
-Technical difficulty of implementation
-Original design or uniqueness in interpretation of previously published design (i.e. woods used, joinery techniques, etc)
Many puzzle designs may be found HERE. While you may not reproduce these designs in quantity for commercial purposes without permission from the designer, personal use is permitted by copyright law and custom.

HOW TO ENTER:
1. Download and print the entry form located HERE.
2. Mail your entry and puzzle via POSTAL SERVICE ONLY (NO UPS, FedEx or private carrier!) to:

Stewart Coffin Puzzlecraft Competition
101 Ellington Oaks Ct.
Raleigh, NC 27603

3. You will receive an email notification once we receive your entry. Any entries received without an entry form will be refused.