I have a cross in the form of one square with four identical squares surrounding it

   _
 _|_|_
|_|_|_|
  |_|

Cut it into the fewest number of pieces possible such that, when rearranged the pieces form two smaller crosses of identical size.

3 cuts, 4 pieces

I cant handle ASCII graphic solutions very well,
so click below on the link to see my a clearer graphic solution.
  
Solution
           __       __
           |  |      |  |
   ____ |_|      |_|____
  |____|   |     |   |___|
           |_|      |_| 
 ____   |  |      |  |   ____
|____|  |_|      |_|  |____|

Edited on March 6, 2006, 3:38 pm

Posted by Mike on 2006-03-06 13:02:29