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How to Preserve Jigsaw Puzzles

If you've ever completed a jigsaw puzzle with thousands of pieces, and felt your heart sink at the thought of disassembling it, you can preserve your puzzle easily. Many enthusiasts appreciate the artwork on the puzzle and hang their completed work on their walls, or preserve them for posterity. While preserving a puzzle takes minimal effort, there is a fair bit of forethought involved, so that you don't end up inadvertently taking the puzzle apart in the process.

Things You'll Need

Two thin inflexible boards
Clamps
Jigsaw puzzle glue
Frame (optional)
Peel and stick puzzle preserver (optional)

Instructions

- 1
  Slide one of the two boards underneath the puzzle. Carefully lift one edge or corner of the puzzle and begin slowly working one of the boards underneath. You may need another person's help for this step, as many puzzles do not fit tightly together and can come apart if caution is not exercised.
- 2
  Apply the jigsaw puzzle glue. Liberally apply the glue to the picture surface of the puzzle. Work the glue into all cracks and crevices to ensure that the puzzle will adhere completely. Let the glue dry for at least one hour before moving the puzzle.
- 3
  Flip the puzzle and use a peel and stick system. Place the second board on top of the puzzle. Clamp the edges of the boards down, on at least two opposing sides. Carefully flip the puzzle over so that the picture side is facing down. Remove the clamps and the board that is now on top. Peel off the backing of the puzzle preserver and carefully smooth across the back of the puzzle. Place the other board back on top of the puzzle and flip back to the right side.
- 4
  Frame your puzzle. If desired, choose a simple poster frame suitable for your puzzle. In general, if you will be hanging your puzzle or storing it vertically, frame it with glass or plastic to prevent pieces from falling out as the puzzle ages.

Jigsaw Puzzles