Jigsaw puzzles are a beloved pastime for people of all ages. Whether it’s a 300-piece puzzle for a family game night or a challenging 5,000-piece masterpiece, completing a puzzle can be very satisfying. But for many puzzlers, finishing the puzzle isn’t the end of the journey. Often, people want to preserve their hard work by preserving the puzzle and turning it into a piece of art to display proudly.
However, with so many glue options available, it can be tricky to choose the right one. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best glue options for preserving jigsaw puzzles, offering recommendations for various needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy application or a budget-friendly option, we’ve got you covered! We will also discuss puzzle glue sheets as a potential alternative to using glue.
What To Think About When Selecting a Glue?
Before jumping into the top glue options, let’s take a quick look at some of the key aspects to consider when trying to pick the right glue:
- Ease of Application
- Number of Coats Required
- Drying Time
- Clarity
- Final Sheen
For details on each of these aspects and tips on how to apply the glue, please refer to my article How To Glue A Jigsaw Puzzle For Framing.
Best Glues for Jigsaw Puzzles
Here are some of the top glues available for gluing jigsaw puzzles. We’ll discuss their pros, cons, and what makes them stand out from the rest.
MasterPieces Puzzle Glue
MasterPieces Puzzle Glue is one of the most popular choices among puzzle enthusiasts, and for good reason. It comes with a handy spreader to ensure an even application and dries clear, ensuring that your puzzle’s colors shine through. It has an excellent balance of viscosity and drying time, suitable for up to two puzzles 1000-piece puzzles.
Key Features:
- Comes with an applicator, making the process less messy.
- Dries clear and gives the puzzle a glossy finish.
- Non-toxic and safe for kids to use.
Pros:
- Easy to apply with the included applicator.
- Provides a smooth, shiny finish.
- Affordable and widely available.
Cons:
- Requires two coats for optimal durability.
- The spreader can sometimes leave streaks if not applied evenly.
MasterPieces Puzzle Glue is perfect for those looking for a simple, all-in-one solution. The gloss finish makes your puzzle pop, and the price is hard to beat for the quality you get.
Mod Podge Puzzle Saver
Mod Podge Puzzle Saver is a fantastic all-purpose glue that works wonders for jigsaw puzzles. This glue is part of the famous Mod Podge family, known for its versatility in crafting projects. The Puzzle Saver formula is specifically designed for jigsaw puzzles, ensuring your pieces stay secure and intact for years to come.
Key Features:
- Comes in a bottle with a wide mouth for easy access.
- Dries quickly and clear, giving your puzzle a glossy finish.
- Multi-use glue that can be used for other crafting projects as well.
Pros:
- Reliable and easy to apply.
- Versatile and can be used for various craft projects.
- Available in different sizes for large or small puzzles.
Cons:
- Does not include an applicator brush.
- Requires multiple coats for large puzzles.
Mod Podge Puzzle Saver is great for those who enjoy crafting and want a multipurpose glue. Although it doesn’t come with an applicator, it’s a trusted brand that’s easy to work with and offers fantastic results.
Puzelworx Jigsaw Puzzle Glue
Puzelworx Jigsaw Puzzle Glue is a great option for puzzlers who want a reliable, quick-drying solution to preserve their completed puzzles. This glue is designed to provide a strong bond and a glossy finish, making it ideal for turning your puzzle into a display-worthy piece of art.
Key Features:
- Fast-drying formula, so you don’t have to wait long before framing your puzzle.
- Provides a glossy finish that enhances the appearance of your puzzle.
- Comes with an easy-to-use applicator for smooth, even spreading.
Pros:
- Dries quickly, making it perfect for those who want to finish their project faster.
- Clear, glossy finish gives the puzzle a polished, professional look.
- Strong adhesive that holds pieces firmly together.
Cons:
- The applicator can be a bit stiff, which may make it difficult to spread the glue evenly.
- Some users have noted that the glue can dry too fast, requiring quick spreading to avoid streaks.
Puzelworx Jigsaw Puzzle Glue is ideal for those who value a quick-drying option that also delivers a beautiful finish. Just be sure to work swiftly during application to avoid streaking.
Cra-Z-Art Jigsaw Puzzle Glue with Applicator
Cra-Z-Art Jigsaw Puzzle Glue is another solid option for puzzle enthusiasts. This glue is affordable and comes with a built-in applicator, making it easy to use right out of the box. While it doesn’t dry as quickly as some of the other options, it provides a strong hold and clear finish once fully cured.
Key Features:
- Includes an applicator tip for easy spreading.
- Non-toxic, making it safe for use by kids and adults alike.
- Dries clear, ensuring the image on the puzzle remains vivid.
Pros:
- Inexpensive, making it a great budget-friendly option.
- Easy to apply with the included applicator.
- Provides a solid hold for puzzle pieces, even for larger puzzles.
Cons:
- Requires more drying time compared to faster-drying glues.
- May need multiple coats to ensure complete coverage on larger puzzles.
Cra-Z-Art Jigsaw Puzzle Glue is an excellent choice for those who are new to puzzle preservation or looking for an affordable option. Its easy-to-use applicator and non-toxic formula make it a reliable choice for family projects.
YAKAMOZ Jigsaw Puzzle Glue with Applicator
YAKAMOZ Jigsaw Puzzle Glue is specially designed for larger puzzles, offering a generous amount of glue and an easy-to-use applicator. This glue provides a strong bond and dries clear, ensuring your puzzle pieces stay securely in place while maintaining the visual integrity of the image.
Key Features:
- Includes a large bottle of glue, perfect for puzzles with 2,000+ pieces.
- Dries clear, leaving no residue or discoloration on the puzzle.
- Comes with an applicator for smooth and even application.
Pros:
- Ideal for large puzzles, as the bottle contains enough glue for multiple uses.
- Dries clear and provides a glossy finish without yellowing over time.
- Easy to apply with the included applicator.
Cons:
- Takes longer to dry, especially for thicker puzzles.
- Some users may find the applicator too soft, making it harder to spread glue evenly.
YAKAMOZ Jigsaw Puzzle Glue is the perfect option for puzzle enthusiasts tackling large puzzles. With its generous bottle size and reliable finish, it’s a great choice for preserving bigger puzzles.
What About Peel and Stick?
If you’re not a fan of liquid glues or worried about making a mess, peel and stick puzzle savers may be an option for you. Check out three of my favorites.
Puzzle Presto! Peel & Stick Puzzle Saver
AGreatLife Puzzle Saver Sheets
Each of these have similar aspects as follows:
Key Features:
- Peel-and-stick adhesive sheets that bond puzzle pieces together.
- No drying time required – ready for framing immediately.
Pros:
- Mess-free application.
- No drying time, making it ideal for last-minute framing.
- Doesn’t alter the surface finish of the puzzle.
- Easy to determine how many sheets are needed based on the size of puzzles.
Cons:
- Adhesive may not be as strong as liquid glue for larger puzzles.
- Flipping the puzzle over to apply the sheets to the back can be challenging.
Final Thoughts
Gluing your jigsaw puzzle is a fantastic way to turn a fun activity into a long-lasting piece of art. Whether you prefer liquid glue for a glossy finish or adhesive sheets for a mess-free experience, there’s a glue option out there that’s perfect for your needs.
From budget-friendly choices like MasterPieces Puzzle Glue to the no-mess convenience of Puzzle Presto! Peel & Stick, these top products will help you preserve your puzzles beautifully. So go ahead, pick the right glue for your next puzzle, and get ready to showcase your masterpiece!
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Related Articles:
How To Glue A Jigsaw Puzzle For Framing
Tips for Solving Jigsaw Puzzles
Best Jigsaw Puzzles For Seniors
When Were Jigsaw Puzzles Invented?
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