How to Glue Jigsaw Puzzles

Jigsaw Puzzle Fun

Finishing a difficult jigsaw puzzle gives people quite a thrill, and some puzzles are so beautiful they seem more like posters. Puzzle glues preserve jigsaw puzzles and give them a shiny finish so they can be framed and hung on the wall. There are many different brands of this glue, but the method used to glue the puzzle is the same.

Things You'll Need

• Puzzle
• Puzzle glue
• Sponge and water
• Second sponge, soap and water
• Wax paper, baking paper or plastic wrap
• Backing for puzzle (optional)

Instructions

1. Slide plastic wrap, baking parchment or wax paper under your finished puzzle. This will protect the surface your puzzle is on. Work with a partner: While one person stands at one end of the puzzle and holds it in place, the other takes a wide piece of plastic wrap or wax paper and gingerly slips it under the puzzle.

2. Apply puzzle glue directly to a damp sponge. A big, soft sea sponge works best. Gently apply the glue from the sponge onto the puzzle in long swipes. Start at the top on the left edge and smooth the glue down to the bottom. Repeat this stroke next to the first swipe, and move on across the puzzle until you have applied the glue in one thin, even coat over the entire puzzle. Clean up any spills right away with soapy water and a different sponge. Wait at least 15 minutes for the first coat of puzzle glue to dry.

3. Apply a second coat of puzzle glue to the front of the puzzle. Use the same technique, but this time apply the glue in horizontal instead of vertical strokes. Wait another 15 minutes.

4. Turn the puzzle over when you are confident that it is completely dry. Apply one coat of puzzle glue to the back of the puzzle and wait to dry.

5. Use the same puzzle glue and method to adhere the puzzle to a backing, such as a thin piece of wood. Your puzzle is now ready for framing, should you choose to do so.

Resources

• Puzzle Glue
• Puzzle Presto
• Mod Podge
• Ravensberger