After completing a jigsaw puzzle, you may be wondering what to do with it next. Instead of just putting it back in the box, consider repurposing it into various creative projects. Whether the puzzle is intact or missing a few pieces, you can turn it into a piece of art, a bookmark, a magnet, or even a clock. Jigsaw puzzles have become a popular pastime for people of all ages, especially during times when staying at home is necessary. The vast variety of puzzles available on the market opens up endless possibilities for repurposing them in fun and unique ways.
Turn your puzzle triumph into a masterpiece of art
One simple way to repurpose an old puzzle is to turn it into framed artwork. Whether the puzzle is complete or incomplete, you can glue the pieces onto a backing board, frame it, and create a unique piece of art.
Don’t be puzzled over your to-dos, use pieces to make a magnet
Transform puzzle pieces into magnets by attaching magnet tape to the back. You can cover the pieces with resin for durability and paint or embellish them to match the notes or pictures you plan to hold with the magnets.
Mark your last read spot with a creative bookmark
Create a bookmark using puzzle pieces by decorating them with paint and attaching them to a paper clip. You can also repurpose a completed puzzle by cutting off one end, sealing it with Mod Podge, and using it as a bookmark.
Upcycle a picture frame into a piece of interesting decor
Cover an old picture frame with puzzle pieces to create a unique piece of decor. Mix and match the pieces to create different patterns or color schemes and paint them to achieve the desired look.
Get crafty and make a bowl
Turn puzzle pieces into a bowl by layering them on a cardboard base and building them up to create the bowl shape. You can spray paint or brush the pieces with acrylic paint for a clean finish.
Map out the world with a DIY puzzle-themed creation
Use puzzle pieces to create a world map by gluing them onto a canvas in the shape of different continents. Seal the pieces with Mod Podge and hang the map as a unique piece of wall art.
Make into your canvas and paint something new
Turn a completed jigsaw puzzle into a canvas for painting by painting the background a solid color and adding vibrant splashes. Paint your new image on top of the puzzle pieces and frame or hang the finished piece.
Turn puzzle pieces into cute ornaments
Create DIY ornaments using puzzle pieces by shaping them into candy canes, wreaths, or other designs. Add buttons or other embellishments and hang the ornaments on your Christmas tree or use them as decorations on gifts.
Use in a decorative or junk journal
Create a junk journal using puzzle pieces as decorative elements. Add lace, rub-on transfers, and charms to the pieces to create unique works of art in your journal.
Set into a clock for interesting viewing anytime
Show your love for puzzles by turning one into a clock. Attach a completed puzzle to a foam board or dish, cover it with Mod Podge, and insert a clock kit to create a functional and decorative clock.
Make mealtime more fun with a custom place mat for kids or adults
Use an old children’s puzzle to create a placemat by laminating the completed puzzle with a self-laminating sheet. This simple DIY project can add a fun touch to mealtime for both kids and adults.
Mirror your puzzle fun by upcycling an old mirror
Decorate the frame of a mirror with puzzle pieces using hot glue to create a unique and personalized piece of decor. You can use metal or wood frame mirrors and experiment with different arrangements of the pieces.
Use in initial art
Create initial art using puzzle pieces by arranging them on a cardboard or wooden letter and adhering them with glue. Add paint and other decorations to make the design stand out and create a personalized piece of art.
Opt for a piece of seasonal decor
Craft seasonal decor using puzzle pieces by decorating cut-out wood shapes with puzzle pieces in seasonal colors. You can create pumpkins for Halloween, Christmas trees for the holidays, or other seasonal designs.
Cut into a clever coaster
Turn puzzle pieces into DIY coasters by cutting them into square or circular shapes and sealing them with resin or Mod Podge. Add a felt backing for extra durability and protect your furniture in style.
Donate your old puzzles so someone else can enjoy them
Consider donating your old puzzles to places like senior centers, libraries, hospitals, shelters, or Little Free Puzzle Libraries so that others can enjoy them. Make sure the puzzles are complete and in good condition before donating them.
