DIY Jigsaw Puzzle Frames: How to Display Your Completed Jigsaw Puzzles

DIY Jigsaw Puzzle Frames: How to Display Your Completed Jigsaw Puzzles

Completing a jigsaw puzzle is a rewarding accomplishment, and after putting in all the time and effort, it’s only natural to want to display your masterpiece. Whether you’ve finished a challenging 1000-piece puzzle or a stunning, intricate design, framing your puzzle not only preserves your hard work but also transforms it into a piece of art that can be proudly displayed. While pre-made puzzle frames are available, a DIY approach can save money and allow you to customize the display to fit your home decor. Here’s how you can create your own puzzle frame and showcase your completed jigsaw puzzle.

Buy your jigsaw puzzles online in Dublin Ireland at Jigsaw Puzzle Haven

 

Materials You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the necessary materials to create your custom DIY puzzle frame:

1. Completed Jigsaw Puzzle: Ensure that the puzzle is fully assembled and ready for framing.
2. Backing Board: A sturdy material like foam board, cardboard, or MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) that will provide support and stability to the puzzle.
3. Frame: You can either build your own frame or purchase one. A ready-made frame can be altered to fit the puzzle, or you can construct a frame from wood or other materials.
4. Puzzle Glue: Puzzle-specific glue or adhesive is necessary to keep the pieces intact without damaging them. It is essential to choose a glue that is designed for this purpose, as it will ensure the longevity and integrity of the puzzle.
5. Matting (optional): To add a more professional look, you can use a mat around the puzzle. This creates a border and gives the frame a more polished appearance.
6. Picture Hanging Hardware: If you plan to hang the puzzle frame on the wall, you will need picture hangers or mounting brackets.
7. Utility Knife or Scissors: Used to trim excess materials or cut the backing board.

Buy your jigsaw puzzles online in Dublin Ireland at Jigsaw Puzzle Haven

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Puzzle

Before framing your puzzle, you need to secure the pieces in place. Handling a completed puzzle can be tricky because the pieces may easily shift or come apart. The key here is to glue the puzzle properly.

1. Flip the Puzzle: Carefully flip the puzzle over onto a clean, flat surface. Place a sheet of wax paper or parchment paper underneath the puzzle to prevent any adhesive from sticking to the surface.

2. Apply Puzzle Glue: Apply a thin, even layer of puzzle glue on the back of the puzzle. Follow the instructions on the glue packaging, as some glues may require you to use a sponge or brush for application. Ensure that the glue covers all areas where the pieces meet, including the edges. Be mindful not to use too much glue, as it could seep into the front of the puzzle, which can leave a cloudy or glossy finish.

3. Let It Dry: Allow the glue to dry completely. This might take anywhere from 12 to 24 hours, depending on the glue used and the puzzle's size. Avoid moving or touching the puzzle during the drying process to maintain the alignment of the pieces.

4. Trim the Edges (Optional): If you find that the edges of the puzzle are uneven after drying, you can carefully trim them using a utility knife to give the puzzle a cleaner, more defined edge.

Step 2: Attach the Puzzle to the Backing Board

Now that your puzzle is securely glued together and dried, it’s time to mount it onto a backing board for support.

1. Prepare the Backing Board: Cut the backing board (foam board, cardboard, or MDF) to fit the size of your puzzle. You may need to measure the dimensions of your completed puzzle first to ensure the board is the correct size.

2. Mount the Puzzle: Lay the puzzle face-down on a clean surface. Place the backing board behind it, ensuring that it is centered and aligned. Use a strong adhesive or double-sided tape to attach the back of the puzzle to the backing board. Apply the adhesive in several places around the edges and the center, but be careful not to place too much adhesive where it could seep through to the front.

3. Press and Hold: Gently press down on the puzzle to ensure it sticks to the board and remains flat. Let it sit for a few hours to ensure the adhesive holds properly.

Step 3: Frame the Puzzle

Once the puzzle is mounted on the backing board, you can move on to framing it. You have a few options here: purchase a frame, build your own, or use materials you already have.

1. Pre-made Frame: If you’re using a pre-made frame, simply place the mounted puzzle into the frame. You might need to remove the glass front to ensure the puzzle fits comfortably. If the frame is slightly larger than your puzzle, you can add a custom matting around the puzzle for a more finished look.

2. Build Your Own Frame: If you choose to build your own frame, you can use wood or any other material that suits your style. Measure and cut the material to fit the dimensions of your mounted puzzle, ensuring it creates a snug, secure border around the puzzle.

   • Cutting the Frame: Using a saw, carefully cut the wood into four pieces that match the dimensions of your puzzle. Consider mitering the edges of the frame (cutting the corners at a 45-degree angle) to give the frame a professional look.

   • Assemble the Frame: Once the pieces are cut, assemble them using wood glue or nails. Be sure to leave enough space on the back for the backing board and puzzle to fit securely.

3. Matting: To add a sophisticated touch, you can insert a decorative mat around the puzzle before placing it in the frame. This can help the puzzle stand out and give it a museum-quality feel.

Step 4: Hanging and Displaying Your Puzzle

Once your puzzle is framed, it’s time to display it. If you plan to hang the puzzle, you’ll need to attach picture hanging hardware.

1. Attach Hanging Hardware: On the back of the frame, attach the appropriate hanging hardware. This can include D-rings or sawtooth hangers, depending on the size and weight of the frame. Make sure to position them symmetrically for balance.

2. Choose the Right Location: Pick a place on the wall where your completed puzzle can be admired. Consider the size of the puzzle and frame to ensure that it fits well within the space. If your puzzle is large, you might want to place it in a central position, where it can serve as the focal point of the room.

3. Secure the Puzzle: If you're not hanging it, you can also display the puzzle on a shelf or a mantelpiece for a more casual look. Using a frame stand is another way to showcase the puzzle.

Buy your jigsaw puzzles online in Dublin Ireland at Jigsaw Puzzle Haven

Alternative Display Methods

If hanging or framing your puzzle isn’t your style, consider other creative ways to display it:

• Puzzle Display Cases: A glass-front display case allows you to showcase the puzzle while keeping it protected from dust and damage.
• Collage: For a more artistic approach, you can break the puzzle into pieces and create a collage, mixing and matching sections with different frames.
• Coasters or Tables: Some people use completed puzzles to create unique furniture items, like coasters or table tops, by gluing and sealing the puzzle onto a surface.

Buy your jigsaw puzzles online in Dublin Ireland at Jigsaw Puzzle Haven

Conclusion

Displaying your completed jigsaw puzzle is an excellent way to celebrate the hard work and patience that went into finishing it. Whether you choose to frame it traditionally, build your own frame, or get creative with alternative methods, preserving your puzzle for display ensures that it will be admired for years to come. With a little DIY effort and the right materials, you can turn your puzzle into a beautiful, lasting work of art that adds a personal touch to your home decor.

Buy your jigsaw puzzles online in Dublin Ireland at Jigsaw Puzzle Haven