For many jigsaw puzzle enthusiasts, finishing a puzzle is both an accomplishment and a labor of love. But once all the pieces are in place, the big question remains: what do you do with it?
Instead of taking it apart and packing it back into the box, why not turn your completed puzzle into a work of art?
With a little creativity, puzzles can become unique and eye-catching home décor.
In this article, we’ll explore several creative ways to display your finished jigsaw puzzles, from traditional framing to more unconventional ideas.
1. Framing Your Puzzle
One of the most popular ways to showcase a completed jigsaw puzzle is by framing it. This not only preserves your hard work but also transforms it into a stunning wall decoration that can be enjoyed for years to come.
How to Frame a Puzzle:
- Glue It Together: Use puzzle glue or mod podge to secure the pieces in place. Apply an even coat across the front and let it dry completely before handling.
- Mount it on a Backing Board: A sturdy foam board or cardboard backing helps keep the puzzle flat and rigid, preventing bending or warping over time.
- Choose a Frame: Select a frame that complements the puzzle’s colors and style. A shadow box frame is an excellent option for thicker puzzles or those with irregular edges.
- Hang It Up: Use standard wall hooks, picture-hanging strips, or a wire system to mount the frame securely.
Alternatively, services like Framebridge exist that will professionally frame your completed puzzles.
Framed puzzles make excellent conversation pieces and can add personality to any space, from living rooms to home offices.
You can even create a gallery wall with multiple framed puzzles for a unique and artistic display.
2. Puzzle Wall Murals
If you have multiple completed puzzles that follow a theme, why not create a puzzle mural?
Arranging and adhering several puzzles side by side can cover a section of a wall, forming a large and cohesive art display. This works particularly well for puzzles featuring landscapes, cityscapes, or abstract designs.
How to Create a Puzzle Mural:
- Plan your layout by arranging puzzles on the floor before attaching them to the wall.
- Use adhesive strips or mount puzzles on thin boards for easy hanging.
- Combine different puzzle sizes and orientations for an eclectic, artistic look.
Puzzle murals are a great way to add a creative touch to a game room, hallway, or even a child’s bedroom.
Plus, they allow you to enjoy multiple puzzles at once without taking up too much space.
3. Puzzle Tabletop and Coasters
Give your puzzles a functional twist by transforming them into tabletops or coasters. This is a great way to repurpose puzzles while incorporating them into everyday life.
Puzzle Tabletops:
- Place a finished puzzle on a coffee table, desk, or side table.
- Cover it with a glass top for protection and a sleek, polished finish.
- Secure the puzzle in place with adhesive or a clear resin coating to prevent shifting.
Puzzle Coasters:
- Cut small sections of a completed puzzle into squares or circles.
- Glue them onto cork backing for durability and insulation.
- Seal with a waterproof coating to prevent damage from condensation.
These DIY projects allow you to keep your puzzles in everyday use while adding a unique, personal touch to your home décor. They also make great gifts for fellow puzzle lovers!
4. Hanging Puzzle Panels
For a contemporary display, consider mounting your puzzle on separate panels to create a split image effect. This technique is commonly used in modern art and works well for large or panoramic puzzles.
How to Make Puzzle Panels:
- Divide your puzzle into equal sections before gluing it together.
- Mount each section onto a wooden or foam board.
- Space the panels slightly apart when hanging for a dynamic visual effect.
Alternatively, a simple and effective way to hang a puzzle is by using IKEA VISBĂ„CK wooden poster hanger frames.
As laid out clearly by Okay Lady, this method uses two wooden bars at the top and bottom of the puzzle, secured with clips or clamps, allowing it to hang freely. This approach is great for those who prefer a lightweight, DIY solution.
5. DIY Puzzle Ornaments and Decorations
Smaller puzzles or individual pieces can be repurposed into decorative ornaments. This is an excellent way to make use of extra puzzle pieces or old puzzles that may be missing a few pieces.
Ideas for Puzzle Piece Decorations:
- Holiday Ornaments: Glue puzzle pieces together in festive shapes like snowflakes, hearts, or stars, then paint them for added flair.
- Magnets: Attach small puzzle pieces to magnet strips and decorate your fridge or whiteboard.
- Jewelry and Accessories: Turn puzzle pieces into unique earrings, keychains, or even brooches by adding hooks or clasps.
- Greeting Cards and Scrapbooks: Use puzzle pieces to embellish handmade cards or scrapbooking projects.
Repurposing puzzle pieces into crafts is a great way to celebrate your favorite puzzles while reducing waste. Plus, these creative projects can be fun for kids and adults alike.
6. Rotating Puzzle Gallery
For those who love completing new puzzles regularly, a rotating puzzle display allows you to showcase different designs over time without permanently framing them.
How to Set Up a Rotating Display:
- Use a corkboard or a magnetic board as your display base.
- Secure the puzzle using removable adhesive strips or puzzle-saving sheets.
- Swap out puzzles whenever you complete a new one, keeping your display fresh and interesting.
This method is ideal for puzzle lovers who enjoy variety and want to keep their collection on display without committing to a permanent setup.
Conclusion
Jigsaw puzzles are more than just a hobby—they can be transformed into beautiful, artistic displays that brighten up your living space.
Whether you choose to frame, mount, or repurpose your completed puzzles, there are endless ways to celebrate your hard work.
From functional furniture pieces to creative wall art, puzzle displays can add a personal and artistic touch to your home.
