Enthusiastic, Encouraging
Informal, Encouraging
So, you have conquered the challenge, piecing together that beautiful jigsaw puzzle! Now, the real fun begins because the question of what to do with completed puzzles arises! The National Puzzle Day, celebrated annually, reminds us of the joy these brain-teasers bring, but once those last pieces click into place, don’t just dismantle your masterpiece and shove it back into the puzzle box. Instead, think about transforming it into unique home décor; companies like Galison offer amazing inspiration, showing how art and puzzles intertwine! Or perhaps, if you are feeling generous, donate it to a local retirement home for others to enjoy!
So, You’ve Conquered the Puzzle! Now What?
Enthusiastic, Encouraging
Informal, Encouraging
Congratulations, puzzle master! You’ve just spent hours (or maybe days!) meticulously piecing together a beautiful image. The satisfaction is real, isn’t it? But now that the last piece is snug in place, you might be staring at your masterpiece and wondering, "Okay… what to do with completed puzzles?"
Don’t just break it apart and shove it back in the box (unless, of course, that’s what you want to do!). There are tons of fun and creative things you can do with that finished jigsaw. Let’s explore some brilliant ideas, broken down for easy browsing!
First, A Quick Word About Preservation
Before we dive into the fun stuff, let’s talk about keeping your hard work intact. A key step in what to do with completed puzzles is how you’re going to preserve your puzzle. If you plan to glue and display your puzzle, be sure to use puzzle glue, puzzle tape, or self-adhesive puzzle sheets. You can find these at most craft stores or online.
Unleash Your Inner Artist: Display & Decor Ideas
Here’s where things get exciting! These ideas focus on showcasing your puzzle prowess as a piece of art.
- Framing is Fabulous: This is a classic for a reason! Framing protects your puzzle and elevates it to a sophisticated piece of wall decor.
- Custom Framing: Provides a perfect fit and allows you to choose mats and frames that complement your puzzle’s colors and style.
- DIY Framing: A more budget-friendly option. Find a frame that closely matches the puzzle’s dimensions and get creative!
- Puzzle Wall Art: Create a gallery wall using several framed puzzles! A fun and unique way to showcase your puzzle collection.
- Mounting on Canvas: Glue your puzzle onto a stretched canvas for a gallery-wrapped look.
- Resin Table Top: For the super adventurous! Embed your puzzle in a clear resin table top for a stunning and functional piece of furniture. (This is a more advanced project, so do your research!)
Repurpose & Reimagine: Creative Upcycling
Time to get crafty! Let’s look at some innovative ways to repurpose those pieces.
- Coasters: Cut individual puzzle pieces and seal them to create quirky coasters.
- Jewelry: Small, interesting puzzle pieces can become unique pendants, earrings, or charms.
- Gift Tags: Create personalized gift tags by writing on puzzle pieces and attaching them to presents.
- Mosaic Art: Use puzzle pieces as tiles to create a mosaic on a vase, picture frame, or other surface.
Share the Joy: Gifting & Giving Back
- Gift It! Give the completed puzzle to a friend or family member who enjoys puzzling or who would appreciate the image.
- Donate to Charity: Donate your completed (and glued!) puzzle to a local charity shop, community center, or senior living facility. Many organizations will gladly accept them!
- Puzzle Exchange: Organize a puzzle exchange with friends or in your community.
The Practical Route: Functional Uses
Surprisingly, completed puzzles can even be functional!
| Idea | Description |
|---|---|
| Puzzle Piece Trivets | Glue puzzle pieces together to create heat-resistant trivets for hot dishes. |
| Decorative Trays | Glue a puzzle to the bottom of a tray to add visual interest. |
| Desk Organizer | Use puzzle pieces to decorate a desk organizer or pencil holder. |
Something Different
- Take It Apart and Do It Again! Sometimes, the best thing to do with a completed puzzle is to enjoy the process all over again. Store it carefully in the original box and pull it out for another puzzling session later!
No matter what you choose to do, have fun and let your creativity shine! There are truly endless possibilities for what to do with completed puzzles once you’ve put them together. Get ready to be inspired!
FAQs: What to Do With Completed Puzzles
Can I glue my finished puzzle?
Yes, you can glue your completed puzzle. Puzzle glue or specialized adhesive sheets are readily available for this purpose. This solidifies the puzzle, allowing you to frame or display it.
What are some creative options besides gluing?
Beyond gluing, consider disassembling the puzzle to reuse or donate it. You can also repurpose the pieces into mosaic art projects or create unique coasters. There are many options what to do with completed puzzles!
How can I donate my finished puzzles responsibly?
Contact local schools, libraries, senior centers, or hospitals to inquire about donations. Ensure the puzzle is complete and in good condition before donating. This gives new life what to do with completed puzzles you no longer need.
Are there ways to profit from my assembled puzzles?
Potentially. Some individuals sell meticulously assembled and glued puzzles as art pieces. Alternatively, if you create unique art from puzzle pieces, you could sell those creations. Turning what to do with completed puzzles into income depends on creativity and market demand.
So, the next time you finish a puzzle and feel that pang of "what now?", don’t just shove it back in the box! Hopefully, these ideas have sparked some inspiration on what to do with completed puzzles, whether you decide to admire it as art, pass it on for someone else to enjoy, or even deconstruct it for a new project. Happy puzzling!