Are you one of those people who love completing jigsaw puzzles but have no idea what to do with them once they’re finished? Look no further! This article is here to provide you with creative ideas and display options for your completed puzzles. From turning them into wall art to creating a personalized gift, the possibilities are endless. We’ll also discuss how to properly care for your puzzles to ensure they last for years to come. So, whether you’re a puzzle enthusiast or just looking for some inspiration, read on to discover how to maximize the value of your completed jigsaw puzzles.
Displaying Your Completed Puzzles
Wall Art
Frames
Frames are a classic way to display your completed jigsaw puzzles. They provide a professional and polished look to your finished puzzles. There are several options for frames to choose from, including DIY frames, custom frames, and group displays.
DIY Frames
DIY frames are a great option for those who want to add a personal touch to their puzzle displays. You can easily create your own frames using materials such as wood, masonite, or even old picture frames. You can also get creative with the design of your DIY frames by adding decorative elements such as beads, buttons, or fabric.
Custom Frames
Custom frames are a great option for those who want a more personalized and unique display for their completed puzzles. You can work with a framer to create a custom frame that complements the design of your puzzle and the decor of your room. Custom frames can also be made to fit the specific size and shape of your puzzle.
Group Displays
Group displays are a great way to showcase multiple completed puzzles together. You can create a gallery wall of your favorite puzzles or arrange them in a cluster on a larger wall. Group displays allow you to create a cohesive and impactful display that adds visual interest to your room.
Shelves
Shelves are another great option for displaying your completed puzzles. They provide a versatile and functional way to showcase your puzzles while also adding storage space to your room. There are several types of shelves to choose from, including DIY shelves, wall-mounted shelves, corner shelves, and multi-tiered shelves.
DIY Shelves
DIY shelves are a great option for those who want to add a personal touch to their puzzle displays. You can easily create your own shelves using materials such as wood, masonite, or even old picture frames. You can also get creative with the design of your DIY shelves by adding decorative elements such as beads, buttons, or fabric.
Wall-Mounted Shelves
Wall-mounted shelves are a great option for those who want to save space in their room. They can be easily installed on any wall and provide a sleek and modern look to your puzzle display. Wall-mounted shelves can also be customized to fit the size and shape of your puzzles.
Corner Shelves
Corner shelves are a great option for those who want to maximize the space in their room. They can be easily installed in any corner of your room and provide a unique and functional way to display your completed puzzles. Corner shelves can also be customized to fit the size and shape of your puzzles.
Multi-Tiered Shelves
Multi-tiered shelves are a great option for those who want to display multiple completed puzzles together. They provide a versatile and functional way to showcase your puzzles while also adding storage space to your room. Multi-tiered shelves can be customized to fit the size and shape of your puzzles and can be installed on any wall.
Tabletop Decor
Tables
Coffee Tables
Coffee tables are a practical and stylish way to display your completed jigsaw puzzles. These tables are typically used for holding drinks and snacks, but they can also serve as a display surface for your favorite puzzles. Depending on the size of your coffee table, you may be able to display several puzzles at once, creating a unique and personalized centerpiece for your living room.
End Tables
End tables are similar to coffee tables, but they are typically smaller and more compact. These tables are often used for displaying decorative items, such as vases or lamps, but they can also be used to showcase your completed jigsaw puzzles. Depending on the size of your puzzle, you may be able to display several puzzles on a single end table, or you may prefer to display a single, larger puzzle.
Side Tables
Side tables are typically smaller than coffee tables or end tables, and they are often used for storing magazines, books, or other small items. However, they can also be used to display your completed jigsaw puzzles. Depending on the size of your puzzle, you may be able to display several puzzles on a single side table, or you may prefer to display a single, larger puzzle.
Accent Tables
Accent tables are small tables that are designed to add visual interest to a room. These tables can be used to display a variety of items, including vases, lamps, and of course, completed jigsaw puzzles. Depending on the size of your puzzle, you may be able to display several puzzles on a single accent table, or you may prefer to display a single, larger puzzle.
Wall-Mounted Tables
Wall-mounted tables are a unique and space-saving option for displaying your completed jigsaw puzzles. These tables are mounted on the wall and can be used to display a single puzzle or several puzzles at once. They are a great option for those who are short on space, or who want to create a unique and eye-catching display.
Standing Tables
Standing tables are similar to wall-mounted tables, but they are free-standing and can be moved around as needed. These tables are a great option for those who want to display their completed jigsaw puzzles in different rooms or settings. They can be used to display a single puzzle or several puzzles at once, depending on the size of your puzzle.
Cabinets and Displays
Curio Cabinets
Curio cabinets are glass-fronted cabinets that are designed to display decorative items. These cabinets can be used to display your completed jigsaw puzzles in a unique and visually appealing way. Depending on the size of your cabinet, you may be able to display several puzzles at once, or you may prefer to display a single, larger puzzle.
Bookshelves
Bookshelves are a practical and stylish way to display your completed jigsaw puzzles. These shelves can be used to display a variety of items, including books, vases, and of course, completed jigsaw puzzles. Depending on the size of your puzzle, you may be able to display several puzzles on a single bookshelf, or you may prefer to display a single, larger puzzle.
Open Shelving Units
Open shelving units are similar to bookshelves, but they are typically more minimalist in design. These units can be used to display your completed jigsaw puzzles in a sleek and modern way. Depending on the size of your puzzle, you may be able to display several puzzles on a single open shelving unit, or you may prefer to display a single, larger puzzle.
Hutch Cabinets
Hutch cabinets are similar to curio cabinets, but they are typically larger and more elaborate. These cabinets can be used to display your completed jigsaw puzzles in a unique and visually appealing way. Depending on the size of your cabinet, you may be able to display several puzzles at once, or you may prefer to display a single, larger puzzle.
Wall-Mounted Cabinets
Wall-mounted cabinets are a unique and space-saving option for displaying your completed jigsaw puzzles. These cabinets are mounted on the wall and can be used to display a single puzzle or several puzzles at once. They are a great option for those who are short on space, or who want to create a unique and eye-catching display.
Mobiles and Hanging Displays
Mobiles
Mobiles are a popular way to display completed jigsaw puzzles, especially for children’s rooms or playrooms. They are not only decorative but also serve as a fun and interactive way to display the puzzle.
DIY Mobiles
DIY mobiles are a great way to display your completed puzzles, and they can be made using materials that you may already have at home. For example, you can use a piece of wood or a plastic coat hanger as the base, and then attach the puzzle pieces to it using hot glue or strong adhesive. You can also add other decorations, such as beads or ribbons, to make the mobile more eye-catching.
Pendant Mobiles
Pendant mobiles are similar to DIY mobiles, but instead of hanging from a ceiling or wall, they hang from a pendant light. This is a great option if you want to display your completed puzzle in a bedroom or living room. To make a pendant mobile, you will need a pendant light, a piece of string or wire, and a way to attach the puzzle pieces to the string or wire.
Wire Mobiles
Wire mobiles are another type of mobile that can be used to display completed puzzles. They are made by attaching the puzzle pieces to a wire frame, which can be made from coat hangers or other metal wire. The wire frame is then suspended from the ceiling or a wall, and the puzzle pieces dangle from it. This is a great option if you want to display a larger puzzle that wouldn’t fit on a traditional mobile.
Wooden Mobiles
Wooden mobiles are a more traditional way to display completed puzzles, and they can be made using a variety of different woods. You can buy a pre-made wooden mobile or make your own using a wooden base and dowel rods. The puzzle pieces can be attached to the dowel rods using hot glue or strong adhesive.
Hanging Displays
Hanging displays are another popular way to display completed puzzles. They are a great option if you want to display a larger puzzle or if you don’t have enough space for a mobile.
Clothes Hangers
Clothes hangers are a simple and effective way to display completed puzzles. You can use clothes hangers with a wide neck, such as those used for skirts or pants, or you can use hangers with a small notch, such as those used for shirts. Simply hang the hangers on a wall or door, and place the puzzle pieces on the hangers.
Wall-Mounted Hangers
Wall-mounted hangers are similar to clothes hangers, but they are designed specifically for displaying puzzles. They have a larger surface area and are usually made of wood or metal. To use wall-mounted hangers, simply attach them to the wall using screws or adhesive, and then place the puzzle pieces on the hangers.
Screw-in Hangers
Screw-in hangers are another type of wall-mounted hanger that can be used to display completed puzzles. They are similar to clothes hangers, but they have a small screw that can be attached to the wall. Simply screw the hanger into the wall, and then place the puzzle pieces on the hanger.
Hanging Baskets
Hanging baskets are a great way to display completed puzzles, especially if you want to display a larger puzzle or if you don’t have a lot of wall space. Simply hang a basket on a wall or door, and place the puzzle pieces in the basket. You can also add other decorations, such as ribbons or beads, to make the display more eye-catching.
Creative Ideas for Reusing Puzzle Pieces
Art Collages
Painted Pieces
Transforming your puzzle pieces into art collages is a fantastic way to give them a new lease on life. Painting the pieces is an excellent option for adding a pop of color or creating a specific design. There are several paint options to choose from, each offering unique characteristics:
Acrylic Paints
Acrylic paints are a popular choice for painting puzzle pieces. They are known for their fast drying time, versatility, and vibrant colors. Acrylics can be thinned with water for different consistencies, allowing for various techniques such as drips, splatters, and layering. They also adhere well to most surfaces, making them ideal for puzzle pieces.
Watercolors
Watercolors are another excellent option for painting puzzle pieces. They offer a more subtle, ethereal look with their translucent and fluid nature. Watercolors can be easily layered and blended, allowing for endless possibilities in terms of designs and color combinations. They also have a beautiful, matte finish when dry.
Metallic Paints
Metallic paints add a touch of glamour and sophistication to your art collage. They can be used to create a single metallic accent or as a base coat for a multi-colored design. Metallic paints come in various colors, including gold, silver, copper, and rose gold, each providing a unique look.
Decoupage
Decoupage involves attaching cut-out paper or fabric to a surface. It is a great way to incorporate patterns, images, or textures into your art collage. Simply cut out the desired design, apply a decoupage medium, and adhere it to the puzzle piece. You can use a variety of decoupage mediums, such as glue, Mod Podge, or PVA glue, depending on your preference.
Embellishments
Embellishments, such as glitter, sequins, beads, or rhinestones, can be added to the painted puzzle pieces to create a more decorative and textured look. These embellishments can be added after the paint has dried and can be arranged in various patterns or clusters.
Textured Paints
Applying textured paint to your puzzle pieces can create interesting visual effects. Textured paints come in various forms, such as sand, glitter, or pearlescent, and can be applied with a brush or a sponge. This technique can be used to create a unique design or to enhance the existing design on the puzzle piece.
Paint Splatters
Paint splatters can be added to the puzzle pieces to create a more abstract and dynamic look. To achieve this effect, simply dip a toothbrush or a sponge into the paint and flick it onto the puzzle piece, creating a splatter pattern. This technique can be used with any type of paint, including acrylics, watercolors, or metallic paints.
Spray Paints
Spray paints are a quick and easy way to add color to your puzzle pieces. They provide a more even coverage and can be used to create bold, solid colors or intricate designs. Be sure to use them in a well-ventilated area and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe use.
Paper Collage
Creating a paper collage involves arranging cut-out pieces of paper to form a design. This technique can be used with any type of paper, including cardstock, tissue paper, or construction paper. Simply cut out the desired shapes, arrange them on the puzzle piece, and adhere them with a glue or decoupage medium.
Collage Frames
Collage frames are pre-made frames with a backing board and a mounting mat. They are designed to hold multiple pieces of paper or other materials, making them perfect for displaying your art collage. Simply attach your painted puzzle pieces to the backing board using
Home Decor Accents
Puzzle pieces can be transformed into unique and creative home decor accents that add a touch of personalization and charm to your living space. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Coasters
Coasters are a practical and decorative way to display your puzzle pieces. You can make them yourself or purchase ready-made ones.
Puzzle Piece Coasters
To make puzzle piece coasters, simply glue the puzzle pieces onto a piece of cork or foam board, and then cover them with fabric or paper to protect the tabletop. You can also use puzzle pieces to create a collage design on the coaster.
Felt Coasters
Felt coasters are a simple and easy DIY project. Simply cut out the puzzle pieces from felt, and then sew them together to create a coaster. You can add additional embellishments, such as buttons or ribbon, to enhance the design.
Tile Coasters
Tile coasters are a durable and long-lasting option. To make them, simply glue the puzzle pieces onto a tile, and then grout the edges to create a solid surface.
Wooden Coasters
Wooden coasters are a stylish and rustic option. To make them, cut out the puzzle pieces from wood, and then sand and finish them to create a smooth surface.
DIY Coasters
You can also create your own unique coaster design by combining different materials, such as fabric, paper, and wooden blocks. Get creative and have fun experimenting with different materials and designs.
Cork Coasters
Cork coasters are a natural and eco-friendly option. To make them, simply glue the puzzle pieces onto a cork surface, and then finish them with a clear sealant to protect the surface.
Trivets
Trivets are a functional and decorative way to display your puzzle pieces. To make them, simply glue the puzzle pieces onto a piece of metal or cork, and then add a handle or hanger to create a trivet.
Door Hangers
Door hangers are a fun and playful way to display your puzzle pieces. To make them, simply glue the puzzle pieces onto a piece of cardboard or foam board, and then attach a string or ribbon to create a door hanger.
Ornaments
Ornaments are a charming and festive way to display your puzzle pieces. To make them, simply glue the puzzle pieces onto a ball or sphere, and then add a ribbon or string to hang them on the tree or display them in your home.
Magnets
Magnets are a versatile and functional way to display your puzzle pieces. To make them, simply glue the puzzle pieces onto a piece of metal or magnet, and then add a backing to create a refrigerator magnet or other types of magnets.
Puzzle Pendants
Puzzle pendants are a unique and personalized way to display your puzzle pieces. To make them, simply glue the puzzle pieces onto a pendant, and then add a chain or cord to create a necklace or bracelet. You can also create earrings or keychains using puzzle pieces.
Gifts and Presents
Personalized Gifts
- Name Puzzles: Create a personalized puzzle featuring a person’s name and birthdate.
- Photo Puzzles: Turn a cherished photo into a custom puzzle, making it a unique and thoughtful gift.
- Map Puzzles: Design a puzzle from a map of a special place, like a hometown or favorite vacation spot.
- Quote Puzzles: Turn a favorite quote into a puzzle, adding an inspirational touch to any room.
- Memory Puzzles: Combine multiple images into a single puzzle to represent a shared memory or experience.
Gift Baskets
- Themed Gift Baskets: Create a themed gift basket filled with puzzle pieces, such as nature, animals, or abstract designs.
- Jigsaw Puzzle Gift Baskets: Fill a basket with small completed puzzles and puzzle accessories, like a puzzle mat and waxed paper.
- Puzzle Piece Gift Baskets: Fill a basket with unique puzzle pieces, like rare or vintage pieces, for the puzzle enthusiast in your life.
- Assorted Gift Baskets: Curate a selection of small completed puzzles and puzzle accessories, such as puzzle boards and frames, for a personalized gift.
Customized Gift Ideas
- Puzzle-Shaped Cutting Boards: Turn a puzzle into a functional kitchen accessory by cutting it into a cutting board shape.
- Puzzle-Shaped Magnets: Create magnetic puzzle pieces that can be used to decorate a fridge or other metal surfaces.
- Puzzle-Shaped Coasters: Turn puzzle pieces into coasters to protect furniture and add a personal touch to any room.
- Puzzle-Shaped Keychains: Make unique keychains by cutting puzzle pieces into the shape of a keyring.
- Puzzle-Shaped Ornaments: Create festive holiday decorations by cutting puzzle pieces into the shape of ornaments.
- Puzzle-Shaped Pendants: Turn puzzle pieces into wearable art by setting them in a pendant.
- Puzzle-Shaped Puzzles: Create a unique gift by combining two puzzles into one, or by using puzzle pieces to create a new design.
Repurposing Puzzle Pieces for Education and Therapy
Puzzle pieces can be repurposed for a variety of educational and therapeutic activities, providing an engaging and interactive way to develop essential skills. Here are some creative ideas for using puzzle pieces in these contexts:
Sensory Toys
Sensory toys made from puzzle pieces can help children develop their sensory processing skills in a fun and engaging way.
Sensory Bins
Create sensory bins filled with puzzle pieces and other sensory materials, such as sand, rice, or beans. Children can explore the textures and sounds of the materials while manipulating the puzzle pieces.
Sensory Boards
Attach puzzle pieces to a sensory board or mat, and let children explore the texture and movement of the pieces. This can help develop fine motor skills and tactile processing.
Sensory Mats
Design sensory mats using puzzle pieces as a base. Add various textures, such as foam, fabric, or sandpaper, to create a sensory experience that promotes sensory exploration and discovery.
Sensory Rugs
Create sensory rugs by attaching puzzle pieces to a rug or mat. Children can walk on the puzzle pieces, exploring different textures and developing gross motor skills.
Sensory Toys for Fine Motor Skills
- Puzzle piece manipulatives: Encourage children to pick up and place puzzle pieces in a specific order or pattern, helping to develop fine motor skills.
- Puzzle piece sorting: Provide a variety of puzzle pieces and ask children to sort them by color, shape, or size.
Sensory Toys for Gross Motor Skills
- Puzzle piece balance beam: Set up a balance beam using puzzle pieces and ask children to walk along the beam, developing their balance and coordination.
- Puzzle piece obstacle course: Create an obstacle course using puzzle pieces and ask children to navigate through it, improving their gross motor skills.
Sensory Toys for Auditory Processing
- Puzzle piece sound game: Place puzzle pieces on a table and ask children to identify the sounds made by each piece when tapped or shaken.
- Puzzle piece rhythm game: Have children arrange puzzle pieces to create a specific rhythm or beat, developing their auditory processing skills.
Sensory Toys for Visual Processing
- Puzzle piece matching game: Create visual patterns using puzzle pieces and ask children to match the patterns, improving their visual processing skills.
- Puzzle piece sorting game: Sort puzzle pieces by color, shape, or size, developing visual discrimination and categorization skills.
Sensory Toys for Tactile Processing
- Puzzle piece touch game: Encourage children to feel and identify different textures of the puzzle pieces, promoting tactile processing skills.
- Puzzle piece touch and feel game: Hide small objects inside puzzle pieces and ask children to identify the objects by feeling inside the pieces, enhancing tactile processing abilities.
Sensory Toys for Olfactory Processing
- Puzzle piece scent game: Attach different fragrances to puzzle pieces and ask children to identify the scents, improving their olfactory processing skills.
- Puzzle piece aroma memory game: Hide small objects with different scents inside puzzle pieces and ask children to match the scents to the correct pieces, developing their olfactory memory.
Sensory Toys for Gustatory Processing
- Puzzle piece taste game: Provide small pieces of food or candy and ask children to match them to the corresponding puzzle pieces, enhancing their gustatory processing skills.
- Puzzle piece taste memory game: Hide small food items or candy inside puzzle pieces and ask children to identify and match the items to their correct puzzle pieces, improving their gustatory memory.
Classroom Activities
Incorporate puzzle pieces into various classroom activities to enhance learning and development.
Puzzle Sorting
Sort puzzle pieces by color, shape, or size, developing
Puzzle Donations
Local Charities
Donating completed puzzles to local charities is a great way to give back to the community while also helping those in need. There are many different types of charities that would be interested in accepting puzzle donations, including:
- Children’s Charities: Many children’s charities could use puzzles as a fun and educational activity for the children they serve.
- Senior Citizen Centers: Senior centers often offer activities and programs for older adults, and puzzles could be a great addition to their offerings.
- Veteran Organizations: Veteran organizations could use puzzles as a therapeutic activity for veterans dealing with PTSD or other mental health issues.
- Schools and Educational Programs: Schools and educational programs could use puzzles as a learning tool to help children develop problem-solving skills and hand-eye coordination.
- Thrift Stores: Thrift stores could sell completed puzzles to raise funds for their organization.
- Homeless Shelters: Homeless shelters could use puzzles as a way to provide entertainment and comfort to those staying in the shelter.
- Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals and healthcare facilities could use puzzles as a way to provide entertainment and stress relief for patients.
- Rehabilitation Centers: Rehabilitation centers could use puzzles as a way to help patients improve their fine motor skills and cognitive abilities.
- Community Centers: Community centers could use puzzles as a way to provide entertainment and education to members of the community.
- Non-Profit Organizations: Non-profit organizations could use puzzles as a way to raise funds or awareness for their cause.
Online Platforms
In addition to donating puzzles to local charities, there are also online platforms that allow you to donate puzzles to a wider audience. These include:
- Puzzle Donation Websites: There are websites specifically dedicated to connecting puzzle donors with organizations in need of puzzles.
- Online Marketplaces: You can also donate puzzles through online marketplaces such as eBay or Amazon, and choose to have the proceeds go to a charity of your choice.
- Puzzle Swap Programs: Some websites allow you to swap puzzles with other users, and you can choose to donate the puzzles you receive to a charity.
- Puzzle Lending Libraries: Some libraries allow you to donate puzzles to their lending library, which can be borrowed by members of the community.
- Crowdfunding Campaigns: You can also start a crowdfunding campaign to raise funds to donate puzzles to a specific organization or cause.
- Puzzle Contests and Challenges: Some websites host puzzle contests and challenges, and allow participants to donate their completed puzzles to a charity of their choice.
FAQs
1. What can I do with finished puzzles?
Finished puzzles can be displayed in a variety of ways, depending on your personal preference and the size of the puzzle. You can frame them, turn them into wall art, use them as a table centerpiece, or even use them as a teaching tool. The possibilities are endless!
2. Can I frame completed puzzles?
Yes, you can frame completed puzzles to create a beautiful piece of wall art. You can choose a simple or ornate frame, depending on your style and the style of the puzzle. Make sure to use acid-free materials to ensure the puzzle pieces don’t yellow over time.
3. How can I turn completed puzzles into wall art?
To turn completed puzzles into wall art, you can simply frame them as mentioned above. If you prefer a more modern look, you can also create a gallery wall with multiple framed puzzles. You can also create a collage of puzzle pieces to add an interesting design element to your wall.
4. Can I use completed puzzles as a table centerpiece?
Yes, completed puzzles can make a unique and interesting table centerpiece. You can place the puzzle on a tablecloth or on a table runner, and surround it with candles or other decorative items to create a cohesive look.
5. Can I use completed puzzles as a teaching tool?
Yes, completed puzzles can be a great teaching tool for children and adults alike. You can use them to teach about different topics, such as geography, history, or animals. You can also use them as a starting point for creative writing or art projects. The possibilities are endless!
