Great value and a fun challenging puzzle

This was an ok build, the problems I encountered were, no matter how carefully I took the parts out a couple tore or bent. Some parts did not fit together well so I had to use tape to make sure parts stayed put. Some parts seemed to be just fractions off so trying to matching things up was frustrating and again no matter how careful I was parts tore. Some of the smaller parts that had to fit into a tight spot they didn’t stay put so I just left them out. Also when it came to the adhesive trying to take the part off was a pain. I may try a different model but this one I would think twice about it.

This model of Notre Dame is a beautiful kit and a good value for the cost. It's not a puzzle in the mode of rebuildable 2D jigsaw puzzles so most will build it and leave it intact. The printed detail is excellent on the card stock which adds a level of visual depth that exceeds the impact of just its interlocking parts. The fact that it can open to reveal the interior display is extra extra. The difficulty level of this is intermediate to high. Instructions are mostly excellent but a few little pieces take a little figuring out. Some parts are very thin (i.e., flying buttresses) so one must take extra care when detaching them from their parts sheets. A very satisfying project.

This was my 5th CubicFun project and certainly the most challenging and beautiful one. The detail in the printing and the stained-glass elements are second to none. But if you’re new to CubicFun models, don’t make it your 1st, or you might get frustrated. But that said, it’s completely worth it. I do have a couple of pointers...- Get yourself a simple (and cheap) tool called a grout pick. It’s a hand-held tool with steel pointed ends. There are hundreds of foam bits to punch out and it’ll make the build go more smoothly. Plus, there are steps where you must line-up 10+ tabs and slots all at once for a firm fit. The grout pick will be very helpful to position the tabs that don’t want to cooperate.- The acetate sheet with all the stained glass elements has a protective film on it. The instructions show an illustration of this, but It’s not prominent. Remove it for brighter windows.- The instructions are IKEA-like; illustrations with no text. As you go through each step, check off the pieces in the instructions as you use them or (like me) you’ll get to the last step and find a few pieces you missed.- Take your time with the stained glass elements. They’re held on with (provided) double-stick tape, but don’t press them firmly into place until you’re happy with the alignment.- Take your time. The building of the model is immensely satisfying.The attention to detail in all these models is amazing. The pieces fit together firmly and exactly without needing any tape or glue. The pieces pop out of the pre-printed die-cut sheets easily (again, the grout pick will help with the skinny parts). I just wish the company would release a “how-it’s-made” video to show how they design a bunch of 2D pieces to fit so well together to make a 3D cathedral. I am very impressed.

If you follow instructions to the letter, this should be easy for you. Be especially careful which side faces where. Pieces are made of cardboard and foam. There is some sturdiness, but be very careful in applying pressure trying to get pieces to do what you want them to. Some parts are just too thin and fold easily.I am sort of OCD... I wanted the windows to match exactly, which they didn't, and I got my scissors out. You don't need to. They're just off by half a millimeter. But like I said, OCD. It really looks so ornate and pretty. I'm trying to figure out how to attach LED lights now.