Once you've meticulously pieced together a jigsaw puzzle, the sense of accomplishment is undeniable. But what to do with completed jigsaw puzzles? Here are some creative and practical suggestions to help you preserve and enjoy your hard-earned masterpieces.
Firstly, consider the type of puzzle you've completed. Is it a family heirloom, a limited edition, or perhaps a unique design? This will guide your decision on how to best cherish and display your finished product.
Preserving Your Completed Puzzle
Jigsaw puzzles, especially those with intricate designs or made from high-quality materials, can be works of art in their own right. Preserving them allows you to enjoy them for years to come.
One popular method is to frame your completed puzzle. This can be done using a puzzle framing service or by DIY methods. Frame it like you would a painting, and it becomes a beautiful piece of wall art. Consider using acid-free materials to prevent yellowing over time.
Lamination
Laminating your completed puzzle is another way to preserve it. This process involves encasing the puzzle in a protective plastic layer, which prevents pieces from getting lost or damaged. It also makes it easy to roll up and store when not on display.
Lamination can be done at home with an iron and laminating pouches, or you can send your puzzle to a professional service. Keep in mind that lamination may slightly alter the puzzle's texture and feel.
Glue and Mount
A more permanent solution is to glue the puzzle pieces together and mount them on a backing material like foam board or poster board. This turns your puzzle into a rigid, hangable piece of art. Use a strong, acid-free glue to prevent yellowing and ensure longevity.
This method is ideal for puzzles you want to display long-term, but it's important to note that once glued, the puzzle can't be taken apart again. It's also heavier and more difficult to store than other preservation methods.
Displaying and Enjoying Your Completed Puzzle
Preserving your puzzle is one thing, but displaying and enjoying it is another. Here are some ideas for showing off your completed masterpiece.
If you've framed or mounted your puzzle, it's ready to hang on the wall. Consider where it will look best - perhaps in your living room, home office, or even a dedicated puzzle room. Wherever you choose, make sure it's a place you'll see and appreciate often.
Puzzle Tables and Stands
For puzzles you want to keep assembled but not necessarily framed or mounted, consider using a puzzle table or stand. These are designed to hold assembled puzzles securely, allowing you to display them without taking up much space.
Puzzle tables and stands come in various sizes and styles, from sleek and modern to classic and ornate. Choose one that complements your home decor and provides a stable base for your puzzle.
Puzzle Books and Albums
Another way to display and enjoy your completed puzzles is by creating a puzzle book or album. This involves photographing or scanning your assembled puzzles and compiling them into a keepsake book.
You can create a puzzle book as a gift for a loved one, a record of your puzzle-solving journey, or as a way to share your love of puzzles with others. Include notes about each puzzle - where you got it, how long it took to complete, and any interesting facts about its design or theme.
Ultimately, what you do with completed jigsaw puzzles depends on your personal preferences and how you want to cherish your achievements. Whether you choose to preserve, display, or share your puzzles, each method allows you to extend the joy and satisfaction of completing a puzzle long after the last piece has been placed.