After a successful puzzle builds, many people prefer to display them in a well-crafted frame. If you are into DIY projects, this would be an interesting one to handle plus there’re plenty of ways to frame your puzzle. However, you can also take it your local framing store for more professional touch.
The idea of dismantling a completed puzzle is too disheartening, all the fun and excitement down the drain is something you simply can’t bear. Small puzzles like the 300 piece puzzles and the 500 piece jigsaw puzzle are easy to frame than 1000 piece puzzle frames. Here is how you frame a puzzle with glue.
1.Choose a frame
Avoid using the dimensions listed on the box as your guide to choosing the frame size. These ones tend to differ with the actual size of an assembled puzzle. Make sure to get the right measurements. Or better yet, buy one from a craft store, which it normally comes in pieces. This allows you to reassemble the frame into custom length and width combination.
2.Choose a frame backing
You have enough options when it comes to choosing a material to back your puzzle. From poster board, corrugated plastic, foam board to sturdy board, they all serve their purpose in ensuring cute frame display. Make sure you cut the backing material to fit the frame from the sides and the edges as well.
When framing a valuable puzzle, cardboard backing isn’t the best as it offers little protection and resistance against moisture leakages. If you’re planning to display your 1000 piece puzzle frame in a high moisture area like a basement, corrugated plastic would really come in handy.
3.Cover the surface under the puzzle
Dried glue can be stubborn to remove from any surface, especially wood. So you need to protect the surface by applying a layer of wax paper or any disposable material underneath the puzzle. It has to be flat for the glue to perfectly bond the puzzle together.
Now using a rolling pin, eliminate small bumps and fix uneven puzzle pieces by moving down the rolling pin across the puzzle surface multiple times.
4.Glue the puzzle
With your puzzle flat on a surface and fixed in position with the waxed paper, use a mild paintbrush and paint the surface of the puzzle in gentle strokes. Don’t forget to glue the cracks between the pieces and then let the artwork dry for at least two hours. To ensure the pieces won’t come off, try lifting the puzzle from one end. If the pieces are still loose, you may want to apply more glue and wait a little longer for the glue to dry completely.
Finally, attach the puzzle to the pre-cut backing material using glue and make sure the edges are well aligned. You’ll wait for at least 24 hours for the glue to dry and now you can transfer it in the frame. Close it down using tabs or any closing mechanism built into the frame. Optionally, you can protect your 1000 piece puzzle frame from fading and scratches using a plastic cover or a glass.