How to Create Jigsaw Puzzles

Create jigsaw puzzles with your own digital images. Custom jigsaw puzzles make unique gifts for family and friends. Vacation mountain cabins often have a supply of games and puzzles. An ideal thank-you gift for staying in such a place would be a new jigsaw puzzle for the collection---one that features the actual cabin. A beloved pet or favorite grandchild would also make the ideal subject for a custom jigsaw puzzle.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Capture the desired image digitally. You can take a picture with a digital camera or use a scanner to convert a photograph to a digital file. If you don't have a scanner, visit an office supply store that supplies this service and have the staff scan the photograph for you. For the best quality, create the digital image with the maximum pixel size.

2. Locate an online company that creates jigsaw puzzles from your digital images. There are many, such as Shutterfly and Snapfish (see Resources).

3. Visit the website of the company you choose and upload your image. There will typically be an online form where you can upload your image by clicking the "Browse" button on the screen and then locating the digital image on your computer's hard drive.

4. Check there is a problem with the resolution. If the image you have uploaded is too small for a quality print, the site will often inform you after the download that the resolution is too low. If this is the case, choose a higher-resolution image to upload.

5. Complete the online form to order the puzzle, which will include making an online payment and giving your contact and shipping information.

Tips & Warnings

• Create a virtual jigsaw puzzle for free. Download a digital image from a jigsaw website (see Resources), and it will instantly create a puzzle. Use your mouse to move around the puzzle pieces on the screen.

Resources

• Shutterfly Puzzles
• Snapfish Puzzles
• Portrait Puzzle
• Virtual Jigsaw Puzzles
• Jig Zone