Creating Crossword Puzzles With Brooke Husic & Natan Last: Atlas Obscura Experiences

In this 4-part lecture series, learn how to build an American-style crossword puzzle from start to finish.

oin crossword creators Natan Last and Brooke Husic for a behind-the-scenes, step-by-step look at how a themed, American-style puzzle goes from a collection of concepts to its final presentation. Together as a class, we’ll co-create a crossword of our own, exploring the form as we go. We’ll look at the historical context that gave rise to it, technical considerations and clue conventions, and the variety of modes of expression we as creators must consider. By the end of our time together, you’ll not only have an understanding of the intricate, creative process of building a crossword, but also a co-created puzzle published on Atlas Obscura that you can send around to your family and friends.

This course is open to all students regardless of prior familiarity with crossword puzzles. Please note that this course will be looking at American-style crossword puzzles exclusively; British (cryptic) crosswords will not be covered in this class.