Sometimes a puzzle you've just finished is too good to take apart, and after you have worked so hard to complete it, it would be disheartening to have to take it apart. There are two possibilities: either you buy a special puzzle frame, which is often more expensive than the puzzle itself, or you stick the pieces permanently.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Join the Pieces Using Glue
Step 1. Use this method to create a permanent decoration that you can admire at any time
If you don't intend to take the puzzle apart, you can use special glue to join the pieces together permanently. Doing so creates a more polished and sturdier work of art, but the value of the puzzle is greatly reduced. For this reason, this method is not recommended for vintage or valuable puzzles, and some puzzle enthusiasts don't use it at all.
Step 2. Look for a frame that fits your puzzle
Since your assembled puzzle may be slightly different in size than what is indicated on the box, use a ruler or tape measure and measure it carefully before choosing the right frame.
Some hobby and craft stores sell frames in separate pieces, which you can reassemble into rectangular structures by customizing their length and width
Step 3. Choose the material from which to make the support base of the puzzle, which fits the frame
The support base can be a poster board, a foam base or a sturdier board with a thickness of about 6 mm. Cut out a rectangle to fit into the frame. This material will constitute the support of the puzzle, the base on which it will rest, remaining well fixed and flattened. It is recommended to use a sharp utility knife to cut out the base precisely, using a square or protractor to make sure the sides have perfectly right angles.
Avoid using thin cardboard or other easily foldable materials, as the puzzle may warp in the long run
Step 4. Slip a layer of wax paper under the puzzle
Protect the surface underneath the puzzle by carefully inserting something flat and easily available, such as wax paper.
Step 5. Use a rolling pin to flatten the puzzle
Small bumps and pieces that have come loose can be leveled with a rolling pin before gluing them. Pass the rolling pin several times along the entire surface of the puzzle, exerting the necessary pressure.
Step 6. Spread some special glue on the surface of the puzzle
Purchase puzzle glue at a craft store or online. Use a brush to apply this glue to the surface of the puzzle, covering the entire surface with a thin layer. Pay particular attention to the cracks between the pieces.
If the puzzle glue is powdered, read the instructions to know how to make it
Step 7. Wait for the glue to dry
The jar of glue may indicate how long it takes for the glue to dry. If there is no indication, let it dry for at least 2 hours. Try to see if the puzzle is ready by gently lifting one end. If the pieces are still loose or falling off, wait longer or apply more glue.
Step 8. Glue the puzzle onto the support base
Apply glue to the surface of the card or foam base you cut out earlier. Carefully transfer the glued puzzle onto the support base, aligning it with the edges. Pressing down gently, insert it into the base, then remove the excess glue that comes out between the puzzle and its base.
If the glue does not hold or does not look even, go to a craft store and have your puzzle professionally "dry" mounted on the stand
Step 9. Let the puzzle dry for at least 24 hours, placing something heavy on it if necessary
Do not touch the puzzle for at least a full day, so that the glue reaches maximum strength. If the puzzle appears to fold or is not perfectly level, place a large book or other heavy object on top of it, with a larger surface area than the puzzle.
Do not use small objects or objects with an uneven surface, as they may compress the puzzle, deform it and may even damage it
Step 10. Frame the puzzle
Once the puzzle and its support base have dried, insert them into the frame. Secure it using the tabs or brackets on the back, or any other system on the frame.
Optionally, install a glass or hard plastic cover over the puzzle to prevent scratches. For better color retention, use an ultraviolet resistant glass cover
Method 2 of 2: Displaying a Puzzle Without Using Glue
Step 1. Measure the length and width of the puzzle
Enthusiasts who want to preserve the usability and value of the puzzle, without giving up on displaying it, use a special frame. Usually these frames have different sizes, depending on the size of the puzzle (500, 1000 pieces etc.), but for greater accuracy it is recommended to measure the width and length of the puzzle and buy one that fits perfectly. Since the frame will be the only way to hold the puzzle in place, it is important to buy one that conforms as closely as possible to the puzzle and holds it firmly.
Step 2. Choose a puzzle frame that does not require the use of glue
Some frames, called "puzzle frames", are actually ordinary frames made for framing normal puzzles, and require the use of glue. Instead you need a special frame, which often costs more. You can also try to use a normal frame with a very solid front and back, but it is recommended to look for a specific one for puzzles, because these kinds of objects are thicker and more fragile than the photographs and posters we usually put in the frames.
- Try an aluminum frame, one with glass front MyPhotoPuzzle frames, one in wood or acrylic Jigframe, or one of the Versaframe adjustable size ones.
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Note:
there are a couple of cheaper options for displaying your puzzle, as you'll see at the end of this section.
Step 3. Mount a MyPhotoPuzzle frame
The exact design of a puzzle frame varies from one brand to another. For MyPhotoPuzzle frames, gently press the glass onto the surface of the puzzle, flip the glass and puzzle together face down, then place the support base on the back of the puzzle. Make sure that one of the hooks of the support base is at the top of the puzzle, so as not to mount it upside down. Place the frame on top of the base and on top of the glass; then, using all the hooks on the edges of the base, fix it to the frame.
Step 4. Assemble a wooden Jigframe puzzle frame
The frame is equipped with a sheet of acrylic plastic, protected with paper on both sides. Briefly heat the paper in the sun or near a heater if necessary so that it is easier to peel off the paper. Slide or build the puzzle onto the top of one of the included sheets. Open and slide the frame puller, place the puzzle sheet face up on the puller, then cover the puzzle with the acrylic sheet and slide it back into the frame.
- Instead of sliding the puzzle, you can use one of the included sheets, placing it on top of the puzzle to hold it steady as you flip it, then put another sheet on the back of the puzzle and flip it face up again.
- If the puzzle is much smaller than the frame, you can place a small piece of cardboard under the bottom edge of the puzzle, which you will place in the center.
Step 5. To assemble the other types of frames, follow the instructions included in the package
Other brands may use a different system than those described above. An adjustable frame can be sold in two pieces, which are slid together on the puzzle and fixed in the correct position.
Step 6. Alternatively, you can display your puzzle under the glass of a coffee table
Some of these coffee tables have a glass plate that can be assembled and disassembled from the main body. If you want to make your puzzle visible, place it under the slab.
Step 7. Use a clear plastic binder
Usually these bags are made of polypropylene, a material that protects the puzzle from moisture or other possible damage. These plastic bags are mostly used for storing prints and photographs, so it may be difficult to find the right size to hold a medium or large puzzle.
