Jigsaw puzzles have long been a favorite pastime for people of all ages. From the satisfaction of finding the perfect piece to the sense of accomplishment upon completing the final picture. However, once the last piece is snugly in place, the questions arise: Do I break it down and put it back in its box or do I save it in its finished state? If you decide the latter, the question is: How do you preserve and store your masterpiece? In this article, I’ll explore various methods and tips for storing finished jigsaw puzzles to ensure they remain intact and ready for display or future enjoyment.
Understanding the Importance of Proper Storage
Before getting into specific storage techniques, we need to understand why proper storage is vital for preserving finished jigsaw puzzles. Without adequate protection, puzzles are susceptible to damage from various factors such as dust, moisture, and accidental mishandling. Also, improper storage can lead to pieces becoming dislodged or lost, making the puzzle incomplete and diminishing its appeal. Therefore, investing time and effort into storing your puzzles correctly can prolong their lifespan and maintain their pristine condition for years to come.
General Guidelines for Storing Finished Jigsaw Puzzles
Keep it Clean: Before storing your completed puzzle, ensure that it is clean and free from any dust or debris. Gently wipe the surface with a soft, dry cloth to remove any lingering particles.
Choose a Flat Surface: Select a flat and stable surface to work on when assembling and storing your puzzle. Avoid uneven or slippery surfaces that could cause the puzzle to slide or warp.
Use a Puzzle Mat or Board: Investing in a puzzle mat or board is an excellent way to preserve your finished puzzle while keeping it intact. These specialized mats allow you to roll up the puzzle for safe storage without disturbing the pieces.
Consider Frame Mounting: For puzzles that you intend to display as artwork, framing is a popular option. Mounting the completed puzzle in a frame not only protects it from damage and makes it look like a piece of art.
Keep Away from Moisture and Heat: Moisture and heat can warp the puzzle pieces and cause the image to fade over time. Store your puzzles in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight and humidity.
Label and Organize: If you have multiple puzzles in your collection, labeling and organizing them can help you keep track of each one. Use storage containers to separate puzzles by size, theme, or difficulty level for easy retrieval.
Specific Recommendations
To offer practical insights into storing finished jigsaw puzzles, let’s explore some specific recommendations based on user reviews and experiences:
Puzzle Glue and Sealant: Some puzzle enthusiasts swear by puzzle glue and sealant as a means of preserving their completed puzzles. By applying a thin layer of glue to the surface, you can secure the pieces in place and create a durable finish that can be displayed or stored without concern of disintegration.
Custom Storage Solutions: For those with limited space or specific storage requirements, custom storage solutions may be the answer. Users have shared innovative ideas such as mounting puzzles on foam boards and storing them in custom-built shelving units or under-bed storage containers to maximize space and protect their collections.
Digital Preservation: In the age of technology, some users opt for digital preservation methods to store and showcase their completed puzzles. By photographing or scanning the finished puzzle, you can create a digital replica that can be enjoyed on electronic devices or shared with others online.
Final Thoughts
Storing finished jigsaw puzzles requires careful consideration and attention to detail to ensure they remain intact and preserved for many years. By following the general guidelines and specific recommendations outlined in this article, you can safeguard your puzzle collection against damage and deterioration. Whether you decide on traditional storage methods like puzzle mats and frames or explore innovative solutions like digital preservation, the importance is to find a system that works for you and your unique storage needs. With a little effort and creativity, you can keep your puzzles safe and organized.
Follow us on Facebook for more articles, tips, tricks and giveaways!
**Here’s a little transparency: Our website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support our mission to bring you quality content.**
