How to Solve a Plus-Plus Puzzle by Number: T-Rex
By Plus-Plus USA | Plus-Plus Blocks - Empowering Open Ended | Published: 2026-10-25
Category: How-to Guides
Follow this step-by-step guide to assemble your Puzzle by Number T-Rex 250 pc. Learn how to sort, match, and build your dinosaur with confidence.
Quick answer
Sort your Plus-Plus pieces by color, then match each numbered section on the pattern to the corresponding color to build your T-Rex step by step.
Why the Puzzle by Number approach works
Unlike a traditional puzzle where you rely on shape, the Puzzle by Number system uses color coding. Each numbered area on the pattern tells you exactly which color Plus-Plus pieces to place. This removes guesswork and makes the process more like a guided building activity.
The T-Rex design uses 250 pieces, so breaking the work into small numbered sections keeps the project manageable. You can stop after any section and pick up later without losing your place.
What you need before you start
Make sure you have a flat workspace with good lighting. The included pattern sheet is your map—keep it visible. You will also need a small container or tray for each color group. The Puzzle by Number T-Rex comes with all the pieces and the pattern, so nothing extra is required.
Steps to solve your Puzzle by Number T-Rex
- Sort pieces by color: Dump all 250 pieces onto your workspace. Group them by the colors shown on the pattern (e.g., green, brown, tan, dark gray). Use small bowls or a divided tray to keep groups separate. A common mistake is skipping the sort. Without it, you will waste time hunting for the right color mid-build.
- Identify the starting section: Look at the pattern and find the section numbered 1. It is usually a small, distinct area like the tip of the tail or a toe. Start there rather than jumping to a large area. Starting with a small section builds momentum and helps you verify that you understand the color-number matching before tackling bigger areas.
- Match numbers to colors: For section 1, find the color key on the pattern that corresponds to number 1. Pick Plus-Plus pieces from that color group and place them on the base plate or directly on the pattern, following the shape shown. Double-check that you are using the correct color key. Some colors (like tan and light brown) look similar in low light—good lighting prevents mismatches.
- Build section by section: Move to section 2, then 3, and so on. Complete each numbered area before moving to the next. If a section has multiple colors, place all pieces of one color first, then switch. Do not skip ahead. The sections are designed to build logically, and jumping around can cause alignment issues.
- Connect sections and finish: Once all sections are built, connect them according to the pattern. The pieces snap together firmly. Check that the T-Rex stands or lies flat as intended. If any piece feels loose, press it down securely. If a section does not fit, you may have swapped two similar colors. Review the pattern and correct the mismatch before forcing the connection.
Product facts
- Puzzle by Number® - 250 pc T-Rex: Combines the creativity of a paint-by-number with the satisfaction of a puzzle. Match each numbered section on the pattern to the corresponding color. You never have to guess which piece goes where—the color-number system guides every placement, making it ideal for beginners or a relaxing solo project.
Puzzle by Number® - 250 pc T-Rex
