How to Frame a Puzzle

Jigsaw puzzles can be a fun way to pass the time and keep the mind active. For some individuals, putting together a puzzle is a serious hobby. Sometimes, a puzzle is too beautiful to dismantle, or too disheartening after all your hard work and framing it becomes a viable option. If you learn how to frame a puzzle, you may find another way to decorate your walls. Framing a puzzle can be easy and can be done with or without a framing kit. It does not take many items and the necessary items can be found in an arts and craft store.

1. Determine the puzzle you wish to frame and choose a frame according to the puzzle. This allows you to find the right size frame and pick a color or finish that will accent your puzzle.
2. Use a utility knife and a T-square or level to cut the foam board to fit the frame. This is what your puzzle will be glued to and it needs to fit inside the frame correctly. The T-square or level will help you to obtain a straight edge.
3. Place the cut foam board in the frame to make sure it fits right.
4. Assemble your puzzle on a flat surface; you can use the foam board if desired.
5. Brush puzzle glue all over the surface of the puzzle, paying extra attention to the cracks between pieces.
6. Let the glue dry for at least 20 minutes.
7. Gently pick up the puzzle if you put it together on the foam board and place it off to the side on a flat surface. Be careful around the edges since any extra glue may have stuck the puzzle to the surface you assembled it on.
8. Spread glue liberally over the foam board.
9. Move quickly and place the puzzle onto the foam board. Make sure it matches corner to corner and side to side. The glue will dry fast so take your time and do it right the first time.
10. Press down on the puzzle to help adhere it to the foam board. Use books covering the surface to help.
11. Let the puzzle set for 24 hours.
12. Put the finished puzzle and foam board into the frame and seal with whatever method the frame you chose calls for.

• The board you place the puzzle on can be poster board or cardboard; it just needs to be sturdy and fit in the frame.
• The puzzle may require 2 coats of glue for it to become stiff.

• Handle the puzzle carefully when moving it so it does not fall apart before you get a chance to glue it together.

• Puzzle
• Frame
• Puzzle Glue
• Foam Board
• Utility Knife
• T-Square