Making a 2x2x1 Cuboid:

by: Caleb Lau

Introduction:
The 2x2x1 is actually a really simple puzzle to make. In fact, it is the first cuboid I've ever attempted. It is made by bandaging and extending a 2x2x2. It is one of my favorite puzzles because it is easy to build and easy to solve; there are only 6 possible permutations.

Before we begin, I'll go over the materials I used to construct the puzzle. For the mechanism, I used an Eastsheen Mini 2x2x2 (available at Meffert's Shop). I extended the pieces with 1/8" thick sheet of black ABS plastic (available at specialty plastic stores and online). I also use some epoxy putty and super glue for adhesion and support. As for tools, I mainly used a hacksaw and a variable speed hand rotary tool (on low to medium speeds). Stickering is achieved with vinyl film.

Now that we've established that, let's begin! (Captions are below the pictures.)

Note: This is my interpretation on how to make this puzzle. There are probably better ways to make a 2x2x1, here's mine. I am not liable for any damage you do to you or your puzzle.


The Eastsheen Mini 2x2x2 in a size comparison between the standard 3x3x3 and Eastseen 2x2x2.


Calculate the required measurements for the extenstions and draw them onto the plastic with a sharp hobby knife.


Use a hacksaw to cut out the pieces needed (undercut them to allow for finer, controlled sanding).


Then use a rotary tool to sand/grind the pieces to the right size.


Use the super glue (yes, the kind that bonds plastic molecularly) to glue the pieces together.


Apoxie Sculpt, the two-part epoxy putty that I use.


Use some epoxy putty to secure your pieces from the interior. Once this is complete, put on the two other pieces to "close it up" and glue/secure them on the same way.


Peel the stickers off of the Mini 2x2x1 and bandage the pieces vertically with epoxy putty. Sorry, it is hard to see it in the picture.


After the putty dries and hardens, sand the pieces to the right shape and round the edges and corners. This is one view of the completed piece. (before finishing)


Another view of the completed piece. (before finishing). To finish the piece, simply use some super fine sandpaper and sand the piece with some water. Then, paint the piece with spray paint. Tip on Painting: Spray each piece individually. Then, hang them up with some wire (or paperclips) to let them dry.


As you can see, the piece has been finished. The next step would be to attach the piece to the mechanism. Remove, the [bandadged] pieces from the mechanism. You can accomplish this by gently pulling on it until it pops. Once the pieces are removed, use some epoxy putty to attach the finished piece to the Mini 2x2x2 pieces. In this photo, the pieces are not quite aligned yet. Be very sure that these pieces are aligned properly or it may hinder the puzzle's "turnablitly."


Once you let the putty harden, attached the finished pieces (now connected with the Mini 2x2x2 pieces) to the mechanism. You can accomplish this by just pushing the puzzle piece into the mechanism. If it does not stay, use a tiny bit a super glue to glue it to the mechanism, but be sure not to have the glue touch any other pieces or the mechanism. This may make your puzzle disfunctional.


Use pieces of vinyl film and and cut out stickers for your puzzle.


The finished, stickered puzzle.


Again, the finished, stickered puzzle.


A size comparison with the the standard 3x3x3.


Mid-twist.


Scrambled, slightly twisted.



This was a fun build for me. I hope it'll be fun for you too. The hardest part was alignment, so if you can get that part right, it should be no problem. Once again, if you have any questions, feel free to ask. Happy Cubing!

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