About my work + custom crosswords

I've published crosswords in pretty much every mainstream venue, including the New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, the Chronicle of Higher Education, Universal, and GAMES Magazine, as well as in many indie venues. I've also contributed puzzles to a number of books, including Penguin Classics Crosswords (edited by Ben Tausig), 100 Years, 100 Crosswords (edited by Peter Gordon), and Word.: 144 Crossword Puzzles That Prove It's Hip to Be Square (edited by Natan Last).

I also write custom crosswords for birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas presents, and whatever other occasion you can imagine! It's the perfect gift for the puzzle-lover in your life. I do crosswords for corporate clients as well (for marketing, training, or any other purpose); pretty much any crossword constructing service that you can think of, I can provide. Email me for pricing information - the price mostly depends on the size of the crossword and the turnaround time.


FAQs:

Q: How does the process of making a custom crossword work?

A: It depends on what exactly you're looking for! In most cases, you'll come up with a list of words or topics that they'd like to see in the grid, and I fit as many of them in the grid as I can. But I can also do more standard themed puzzles, working together with you to come up with a theme that you like. In either case, once I've come up with a grid, I'll send it to you to make sure it's to your liking, and make some adjustments if needed, and then I'll do the same thing with the clues.

Q: How long does it take?

A: It varies depending on the complexity and size of the puzzle, but it typically takes at least a week or two from start to finish, because of the back-and-forth required to make sure you get exactly what you're looking for. If you've got a deadline (e.g. a birthday or other occasion), I recommend contacting me at least three weeks in advance.

Q: How does payment work?

A: I accept payment by PayPal or by personal checks. I ask for a $50 deposit upfront, with the rest of the payment due on completion.

Q: What if I want something different than a standard crossword?

A: I can also do other sorts of crossword-adjacent puzzles, including cryptics and various types of variety puzzles. Just ask, and I'll let you know if I can do it! (If I can't, there's a good chance I can refer you to someone who can.)