Most people think that art is the only thing they can get framed, but the truth is the sky’s the limit on what you can get framed. Plenty of pieces we see getting framed these days have nostalgic or sentimental value, including sports memorabilia or even jigsaw puzzles.
Why frame a jigsaw puzzle?
It may seem odd at first, but the truth is framing jigsaw puzzles is increasingly common. Reasons for getting a jigsaw puzzle framed vary from appreciating the final image it formed, to memorialising the time spent on it or even as a dedication to the person or people you completed the puzzle with.
Whether it is your first or tenth puzzle, you completed it with others or solo or you simply enjoy how it looks there is no reason not to frame your puzzle. It can be an accomplishment for you to display in your home or can make for a wonderfully sentimental gift for someone special.
How to frame a jigsaw puzzle
After deciding you want to frame your puzzle, the next question becomes ‘how can I frame a jigsaw puzzle?’. The good news is, with our expert team the process is so much easier than doing it yourself. However, there are a few steps in between completing a jigsaw puzzle and framing it.
Once your labour of love has been completed, you need to make sure it remains intact and looks its best.
First, you want to flatten your puzzle and make sure all the pieces are clipped together evenly and that the surface of the puzzle is smooth. Ensuring the top surface is smooth is important for the gluing step, because bumps and gaps can cause the glue to settle in ways that aren't super appealing.
Once you have flattened your jigsaw puzzle and the pieces are smooth, it’s time to glue it all together. Start with the picture face up and coat it in puzzle glue. Use a spreader or object with a straight edge to create an even coat and try to avoid using brushes as they can leave imperfections and stroke marks behind. Ensure the puzzle is evenly coated and try to avoid using too much as this can cause the pieces to peel or curl. Once the top side is done, wait for it to dry completely to ensure you don’t get any fingerprints on it. In addition to the glue holding your puzzle together it also provides a protective finish to the front surface that dries clear.
Now that your puzzle has been set in place, it will be easy to transport so you can get it framed.
Benefits of jigsaw puzzle framing
Wanting to display your piece of jigsaw artwork is understandable, whether it was a solo project or labour of love. Getting your jigsaw puzzle professionally framed has multiple benefits, but the main one is increasing the lifetime of the piece (pardon the pun).
Puzzles tend to be thicker than your average photo or sheet of paper, so a custom frame that is designed for this thickness is important to ensure you don’t damage the piece in the process of putting it in a frame. In addition, professional framing quality is notably higher than what you’ll find at a chain store, which means we can help ensure your puzzle isn’t exposed to moisture and can be protected from sun damage through the use of UV protective glass. This can be especially important depending on the quality of your puzzle!
Another benefit of framing your puzzle is you’re creating a tangible time capsule for your memories. The time you spent will never be wasted with your own artwork hanging in your hallway or chosen space, and each time you see it you’ll remember that day and the time spent. Having a physical reminder of this would never be a waste of wall space.
Get your puzzle framed today
Now that you understand how to frame a jigsaw puzzle, the steps you need to take before framing a jigsaw puzzle and why it’s worth the time and effort, we can help you immortalise your project. You can browse our range of frames online or visit us in-store to speak to one of our consultants and get your jigsaw puzzle framed.
