Transporting a jigsaw puzzle, whether it's an unfinished masterpiece or a fully completed work, requires careful planning to keep all pieces intact and prevent damage. The best method depends on the puzzle's status: unassembled, in progress, or completed and potentially glued.
Transporting an Unfinished Jigsaw Puzzle
Moving a puzzle that is still in progress demands solutions that secure loose pieces and prevent the assembled sections from breaking apart.
1. Roll-Up Puzzle Mats
A highly efficient and popular method for puzzles in progress is using a roll-up jigsaw puzzle mat. This smart and convenient solution allows you to store or transport your puzzle without disassembling it. The roll-up design effectively prevents creases and ensures your unfinished work is saved, allowing you to easily roll it out to continue playing again.
- How it Works: Typically, these mats consist of a soft felt surface where you build your puzzle. When you need to move or store it, you place an inflatable or solid cardboard tube at one end of the mat and carefully roll the mat around the tube, with the puzzle pieces held gently in place by the felt. Straps are then used to secure the rolled mat.
- Benefits:
- Prevents Disruption: Keeps all assembled pieces connected.
- Space-Saving: Easily stores the puzzle away when not in use.
- Portability: Convenient for moving a puzzle from one room to another, or even to a different location.
- Protects Pieces: The soft felt surface cushions the pieces and prevents them from scratching or getting lost.
2. Specialized Puzzle Boards and Cases
For those who prefer a more rigid solution, dedicated puzzle boards and cases offer excellent protection.
- Puzzle Boards with Lids: These are flat, sturdy boards often made of felt-covered wood or rigid foam. They come with a matching lid that securely fastens over the puzzle, keeping pieces in place. They are ideal for moving a puzzle short distances or for storing it flat under furniture.
- Portable Puzzle Cases: Similar to a briefcase, these cases are designed to hold a puzzle board and its contents. They often have compartments for loose pieces and provide robust protection for travel.
- Example: Look for cases with handles and sturdy latches for secure transportation.
Moving a Completed Jigsaw Puzzle
Once a puzzle is finished, you have a few options depending on whether you plan to keep it assembled for display or just need to move it temporarily.
1. Gluing and Framing
The most secure way to transport a completed puzzle is to first glue it and then frame it.
- Gluing: Apply a specialized jigsaw puzzle glue evenly over the entire surface of the puzzle. This bonds the pieces together permanently. Allow it to dry completely.
- Resource: Learn more about How to Glue a Jigsaw Puzzle (Example link to a reputable source).
- Framing: Once glued and dry, the puzzle can be treated like any piece of art. Place it in a suitable frame, protecting it behind glass or acrylic.
- Transport: Transport the framed puzzle as you would any framed artwork:
- Wrap it in bubble wrap or moving blankets.
- Use cardboard corners to protect the frame edges.
- Secure it upright in a vehicle to prevent shifting.
2. Temporary Securing (for short distances)
If you need to move a completed but unglued puzzle a short distance, extreme care is required.
- Sliding onto Cardboard: Carefully slide the entire puzzle onto a sturdy piece of cardboard or foam board that is slightly larger than the puzzle itself.
- Cover and Wrap: Place another piece of cardboard on top of the puzzle. Then, wrap the entire "sandwich" tightly with plastic wrap or moving film to hold all pieces together.
- Caution: This method is risky, as individual pieces can still shift or detach. It's best reserved for very short, gentle movements.
Transporting an Unassembled Jigsaw Puzzle
This is the simplest scenario, as the puzzle is still in its original state.
- Original Box: The safest and most convenient way to transport an unassembled puzzle is to simply keep all pieces in their original box. The box is designed to protect the pieces during shipping and storage.
- Extra Protection: For added security, especially during a longer move, place the puzzle box inside a larger moving box with other items and use packing material (like crumpled paper or bubble wrap) to prevent the puzzle box from shifting or getting crushed.
Comparison of Puzzle Transport Methods
| Method | Ideal For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roll-Up Puzzle Mat | Puzzles in progress | Prevents creases, easy storage, portable | Not suitable for fully completed/glued puzzles |
| Puzzle Board/Case | Puzzles in progress, short moves | Secure, organized workspace, protects pieces | Can be bulky, limited size options |
| Gluing & Framing | Completed puzzles (display) | Permanent display, highly secure for transport | Irreversible, adds weight/bulk, requires tools |
| Original Box | Unassembled puzzles | Simple, uses original packaging, very secure | Not for in-progress or completed puzzles |
| Temporary Cardboard Wrap | Completed, short distances | Quick, no special tools needed | High risk of damage, pieces can detach |
Practical Tips for Puzzle Transportation
- Prepare Your Puzzle: Before moving, clear the area around the puzzle of any small, loose items that could interfere.
- Secure Loose Pieces: For in-progress puzzles, always ensure all loose pieces are either in a sorter, a resealable bag, or placed securely within the boundaries of the puzzle mat/board before rolling or closing.
- Protect Edges and Corners: The edges and corners of both completed and in-progress puzzles are the most vulnerable. Handle them with extra care.
- Labeling: If transporting multiple puzzles, label boxes or mats clearly to avoid confusion.
- Handle with Care: Always support the puzzle from underneath, especially when moving it without a rigid base. Avoid bending or twisting.
By choosing the appropriate method and taking necessary precautions, you can ensure your jigsaw puzzle arrives at its destination in perfect condition, ready for the next session or to be proudly displayed.
