Completing a jigsaw puzzle is an accomplishment that many puzzle enthusiasts are proud of. Whether it’s a beautiful landscape, an abstract design, or a nostalgic scene, a completed puzzle can be a piece of art in its own right. If you want to preserve your work and turn it into a lasting display, framing your completed jigsaw puzzle is the perfect way to do so. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps on how to frame completed jigsaw puzzles at home.

Why Frame a Completed Puzzle?

Framing a completed jigsaw puzzle is a great way to showcase your effort and creativity. Once you’ve spent hours or even days working on a puzzle, it deserves to be displayed. Framing it also protects it from dust, dirt, and wear, ensuring that your masterpiece lasts for years. Plus, framed puzzles can add a unique and personal touch to your home décor. Whether it’s a family project or a puzzle with sentimental value, a framed puzzle will become a cherished piece in your space.

What You’ll Need to Frame a Puzzle

Before you start framing your completed jigsaw puzzle, you’ll need to gather a few supplies. Here’s a list of everything you’ll need:

• Completed jigsaw puzzle
• Puzzle preserver or puzzle glue
• Wax paper or parchment paper
• Frame with glass or acrylic cover
• Backing board (cardboard or foam core)
• Scissors or utility knife
• Ruler or measuring tape
• Tape (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Frame a Jigsaw Puzzle

Step 1: Prepare the Puzzle

Once you’ve completed your puzzle, the first step is to make sure it’s fully assembled. Double-check that all the pieces are correctly placed and the edges are neatly aligned.

Step 2: Apply Puzzle Preserver or Glue

To keep the pieces together, you’ll need to use a puzzle preserver or puzzle glue. This step will ensure that the puzzle stays intact and doesn’t fall apart when you move it.

• Puzzle preserver: This is a special adhesive that is designed specifically for puzzles. It usually comes in a liquid form and can be applied with a brush or sponge.
• Glue: If you don’t have puzzle preserver, you can use regular craft glue. Just make sure it’s non-toxic and dries clear.

Here’s how to apply it:

1. Lay down a sheet of wax paper or parchment paper on a flat surface. This will protect your table from the glue and allow you to work more easily.
2. Carefully flip your puzzle over onto the wax paper. Make sure the image side is down.
3. Brush or apply a thin, even layer of puzzle preserver or glue over the back of the puzzle. Be gentle and make sure you cover all the edges and spaces between the pieces.
4. Allow the glue to dry for at least 2–4 hours. Check the manufacturer’s instructions on the glue bottle for the recommended drying time.

Step 3: Attach the Puzzle to a Backing Board

Once the glue has dried and the puzzle is securely held together, the next step is to attach it to a backing board. This helps provide extra support and ensures that the puzzle won’t sag or bend over time.

1. Measure the size of the puzzle. Make sure you measure both the height and width of the completed puzzle.
2. Cut a piece of cardboard, foam core, or another sturdy material to match the size of your puzzle. You can buy foam core boards at most craft stores or online.
3. Apply a thin layer of glue or double-sided tape to the back of the puzzle, being careful not to use too much so it doesn’t seep through the gaps between the pieces.
4. Gently place the puzzle on the backing board, pressing down slightly to make sure it sticks evenly.

Step 4: Choose the Right Frame

Selecting the right frame is important, as it will protect and display your puzzle. When choosing a frame, there are a few things to consider:

• Size: Make sure to choose a frame that matches the dimensions of your puzzle. You can find frames in standard sizes, or you can have a custom frame made if your puzzle is an unusual size.
• Material: Frames come in different materials like wood, metal, or plastic. Choose one that complements the style of the puzzle and your home décor.
• Glass or Acrylic: A frame with a glass or acrylic cover will protect your puzzle from dust and damage. Acrylic is lighter and shatter-resistant, while glass provides a more classic and clear finish.

Step 5: Insert the Puzzle Into the Frame

Once you have the frame ready, follow these steps to insert your puzzle:

1. Remove the backing from the frame. If the frame comes with a mat, decide if you want to use it or not. A mat can add a stylish border around the puzzle.
2. Carefully place the backing board with the puzzle onto the frame’s base.
3. If necessary, adjust the puzzle to fit the frame, making sure it’s centered and aligned properly.
4. Secure the puzzle into place by reattaching the backing or using the frame’s built-in clips or fasteners. You may also want to add extra tape around the edges for additional security.
5. Close the frame and make sure everything is properly secured.

Step 6: Hang or Display the Framed Puzzle

Once your puzzle is safely framed, it’s time to display it! Consider the following tips for hanging or displaying your framed puzzle:

• Choose the right spot: Pick a location where your puzzle will be visible and protected from direct sunlight, which can cause fading over time.
• Use picture hooks: For easy hanging, use picture hooks that can support the weight of the frame. Make sure to hang it on a sturdy wall.
• Display on a shelf: If you don’t want to hang your puzzle, you can display it on a shelf or table, using a small easel to prop it up.

Tips for Framing Jigsaw Puzzles

• Use a mat: A mat around your puzzle can make it stand out more and give it a polished look. It also helps to separate the puzzle from the frame’s glass.
• Consider UV-protective glass: If your puzzle has sentimental or artistic value, you might want to invest in UV-protective glass to prevent it from fading.
• Frame multiple puzzles: If you love puzzles, why not display a collection? You can frame several small puzzles and create a gallery wall, which can be a fun and creative way to showcase your hobby.

Conclusion

Framing a completed jigsaw puzzle is a rewarding way to preserve your hard work and turn it into a beautiful piece of art for your home. With the right materials, a little patience, and attention to detail, you can easily frame your puzzle at home and enjoy it for years to come. Whether it’s a treasured memory or simply a piece that brings you joy, a framed puzzle adds a personal touch to your décor and serves as a reminder of the time and effort you put into completing it.