Maze Comic Book Cover #73 - Bark to the Future

Issue #73 in my comic book cover series is called Bark to the Future and features the maze of a dog, specifically a Rat Terrier. The DeLorean was made using ai. Who do you think would be the “Doc” in this comic ? Another dog ? An owner ? And what would the dog’s name be ? Marty McDog ? Thinking out loud.

My comic book cover mazes can be found in 2 places:

Comic Book Cover Mazes - Year 1 (Issues #1-53)

Comic Book Cover Mazes - Year 2

Rat Terrier Maze Comic Book

To receive a book of my first year of comic book book mazes (Volume 1 with mazes #1-53) you can sign up for my book alerts - any time I launch a free maze book, or paid book (on Amazon), I will send you a note about the new book launch.

Maze of the Week 46 Redux - The Free Stamp (MOTW#177)

I think of all the maze updates I have done this is the most different before and after. The initial maze was simple and easy. It could easily be solved by children. For this project the maze did not change, but the surroundings certainly did. Here is my original post:

Maze of the Week #46 - Free Stamp Maze

Here are the enhancements I made to improve the maze:

1. Added the Ground. The maze was floating on the page but no more.

2. Changes Pathway Size. I widened the pathway transitions between colors from anywhere between 50% to 150% so they can be seen more easily.

3. Title Changed. I added the park name, and changed font sizes of labels.

4. Color Changed. I changed the color of the stamp to an off white from pure white to better match the true color of the sculpture.

5. Added Structure Details. I added the stabilizing structure on the ground below the stamp.

6. Arrows Replaced. I replaced the arrows with a written start and goal to allow me to create background items more easily.

7. Changed Size. I reduced the maze size (height minus 1.5 inch) and re-oriented everything down half an inch to reduce the grassy area and sky portions.

8. Added Background details. I added many trees and bushes to the background which are textured. The trees include leaves. I added the large building in the background with color and window details. I may have put more work into the building than the original maze ! If you are a Clevelander you know the building. I added the wall behind on back right bottom between the street and the building. I added the sky. I added the sandy area under the stamp near the new support. All of these things make a more realistic maze.

9. Added Shadows. I added a shadow on the ground from the stamp and another from the largest tree.

This is a big unveil. Before and After:

Looks and feels like a totally different maze to me. I prefer the new one by a wide margin !

Some data: The new file is 1,210MB from 59MB.

I will be replacing the homepage with the new maze going forward. You can find the maze download there !

If you like this type of content check out all of my case studies:

A Collection of Maze Design Case Studies to Improve your Mazes

Happy maze-ing !

Introducing 8 new free printable maze sections to the website

I have been working on new mazes for a few months. Instead of introducing them a little bit at a time like anormal person I am launching a large amount all at once. All of them will sit in the Free Printable Maze section of the website. This email is to tell you what you can expect there. One thing I can safely say is this is a wide variety of mazes.

Here are the 8 new sections of the site for Kids: Some are not labeled as being for kids, but the level is beginner and they are the target audience.

So that is 203 new free downloadable mazes, with 7 of them available in book form ! Here is one of each type to give you an idea what each is:

I hope you enjoy the new mazes. There are more to come !

The Subterranean Maze: Unraveling the Caves of Maastricht

Beneath the charming cobblestone streets and historic facades of Maastricht, Netherlands, lies a hidden world: a labyrinth of man-made caves that whisper tales of centuries past. Forget strolling through museums; here, you can literally walk through history, exploring a subterranean realm that's as fascinating as it is vast. Prepare to be amazed by the Caves of Maastricht!


The History:

These aren't your typical natural caves. The Maastricht caves are the result of centuries of marl extraction. Marl, a soft limestone, was prized for its use in building materials, and the mining of it created an extensive network of tunnels and chambers. From the 13th century onwards, miners carved out this underground city, leaving behind a legacy that continues to intrigue visitors today.

What makes these caves truly special is their rich and varied history. They've served many purposes beyond mining:

  • Shelter and Sanctuary: During times of war, the caves provided refuge for locals. During World War II, they even housed priceless artworks, including Rembrandt's "Night Watch," protecting them from destruction. Imagine the weight of history as you walk where masterpieces once lay hidden!

  • Artistic Expression: The soft marl walls became a canvas for miners and refugees alike. You'll find charcoal drawings, graffiti, and even elaborate carvings that tell stories of life underground. These "cave drawings" offer a unique glimpse into the past.

  • A Secret World: The caves' labyrinthine nature made them ideal for secret operations and hidden activities. They've been used for everything from smuggling to clandestine meetings.


What to Expect on a Cave Tour:

A guided tour is the best way to experience the caves. Knowledgeable guides will illuminate the history, share captivating anecdotes, and point out the most interesting features. Expect:

  • A Cool Escape: The caves maintain a constant temperature, making them a refreshing retreat, especially during the warmer months.

  • Darkness and Light: The contrast between the dimly lit tunnels and the occasional illuminated artwork creates a dramatic and atmospheric experience.

  • Surprising Discoveries: You never know what you might find around the next corner. From hidden chapels to fossilized sea creatures, the caves hold many surprises.

  • An educational and fun experience: The tours are crafted to be engaging and informative.

There are 2 main places where tours launch from:

Each of them can sell out, especially during busy season, so it is recommended to book tickets in advance. Each gives a similar experience.


Tips for Your Visit:

  • Wear comfortable shoes: The cave floors can be uneven.

  • Bring a light jacket: It can be cool inside the caves.

  • Book your tour in advance: Especially during peak season.

  • Bring a camera: You'll want to capture the unique atmosphere.


My Experience:

Here are a few of the pieces of artwork, both carvings and drawings we saw on the North Caves Tour, along with a kiln. The guide was excellent and spoke about the history of the caves. He included some modern stories (tragic) about people becoming lost in them and not being found for extended periods of time.

Here is the map of the cave network, drawn on the wall. Now imagine being placed in the cave, pitch black, and needing to find your way out. You can’t use the right hand method because loops are throughout. No right angles. This is a dangerous maze you do not want to get lost in .

Conclusion:

The Caves of Maastricht offer a truly unique and unforgettable experience. They're a testament to human ingenuity, resilience, and creativity. So, if you're looking for an adventure that goes beyond the ordinary, head underground and discover the hidden world beneath Maastricht. Of all the mazes I have visited, this is my favorite and most unique experience.