How to Frame a Finished Jigsaw Puzzle: A Step-by-Step Guide

Transforming a completed jigsaw puzzle into a framed piece of art is a rewarding process that allows you to preserve and display your hard work. With the right preparation, you can ensure your puzzle remains flat, protected, and visually appealing for years to come. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to prepare a finished jigsaw puzzle for framing.

Before we dive into the process, it's essential to gather the necessary materials. You'll need a puzzle framing kit, which typically includes a backing board, acid-free paper, glass, a frame, and mounting corners. Additionally, you'll require a flat surface, a ruler, a pencil, and a cutting tool suitable for the backing board material.

Preparing the Puzzle for Mounting

The first step in preparing your puzzle for framing is to ensure it's flat and secure. This will prevent warping and ensure a smooth, professional-looking result.

Start by laying the puzzle on a flat surface, such as a large table or the floor. Carefully smooth out any bumps or warped pieces using your hands or a flat object like a ruler. Be gentle to avoid damaging the puzzle.

Securing the Puzzle Pieces

Once the puzzle is flat, you'll need to secure the pieces to prevent them from shifting during the framing process. This can be achieved using several methods:

• Spray adhesive: Lightly spray the back of the puzzle with an archival-quality spray adhesive. This will hold the pieces together without damaging them.
• Wax paper and iron: Place a sheet of wax paper over the puzzle and gently iron it, using a low heat setting. The heat will melt the wax, securing the pieces together.
• Mounting corners: If your framing kit includes mounting corners, you can use them to secure the puzzle. Position the corners at each corner of the puzzle and press them into place.

Measuring and Cutting the Backing Board

With the puzzle secured, it's time to prepare the backing board. This will provide support and prevent the puzzle from warping over time.

Measure the dimensions of your puzzle and cut the backing board to match using a cutting tool suitable for the material. Ensure the backing board is slightly larger than the puzzle to provide a border for framing.

Mounting the Puzzle

Now that your puzzle and backing board are prepared, it's time to mount the puzzle onto the board.

Begin by placing the backing board on a flat surface. If you're using acid-free paper, lay it over the backing board to protect the puzzle from any potential damage caused by the backing board material.

Centering the Puzzle

Carefully position the puzzle onto the backing board, ensuring it's centered and aligned with the edges of the board. You can use a ruler and pencil to mark the center point of the puzzle and the backing board, making it easier to align the two.

Securing the Puzzle to the Backing Board

Once the puzzle is centered, you can secure it to the backing board using one of the following methods:

• Mounting corners: If you haven't already used mounting corners to secure the puzzle pieces, you can now use them to attach the puzzle to the backing board. Position the corners along the edges of the puzzle and press them into place.
• Double-sided tape: Apply strips of archival-quality double-sided tape along the edges of the backing board. Carefully position the puzzle onto the tape, pressing it firmly in place.

Framing the Puzzle

The final step in preparing your puzzle for display is to frame it. This will provide protection and enhance its visual appeal.

Begin by measuring the dimensions of the framed area. Most framing kits include a mat board, which should be cut to match the size of the framed area. If your kit doesn't include a mat board, you can purchase one separately or use acid-free paper to create a border.

Assembling the Frame

With the mat board (or border) cut to size, it's time to assemble the frame. Start by placing the backing board, with the mounted puzzle, into the frame. Ensure the puzzle is centered and aligned with the edges of the frame.

Next, place the glass or acrylic sheet over the puzzle, followed by the mat board (or border). Finally, secure the back of the frame using the mounting corners or other fasteners provided in your framing kit.

Hanging the Framed Puzzle

With your puzzle now securely framed, it's time to hang it for display. Most frames come with hanging hardware, such as a sawtooth hanger or a wire. Attach the hardware to the back of the frame, ensuring it's centered and level.

Measure the desired height for hanging the puzzle and mark the wall with a pencil. Use a level to ensure the mark is straight, then use a hammer and nail or a picture hanging kit to secure the frame to the wall.

Congratulations! You've now successfully prepared your finished jigsaw puzzle for framing and display. By following these steps, you've not only preserved your hard work but also created a beautiful, lasting keepsake. Enjoy your framed puzzle, and happy puzzling!