Completing a puzzle is a satisfying and rewarding experience. Whether it’s a stunning landscape, an intricate piece of art, or a custom photo puzzle, putting together the last piece is a moment worth celebrating.
But after spending hours (or even days) working on your masterpiece, what should you do with it? Instead of dismantling it and putting it back in the box, why not turn it into a decorative feature in your home?
Puzzles aren’t just fun to solve—they can also become unique and personal pieces of home decor. From framing your puzzle to creating functional art, here are five creative ways to display your finished puzzle and enjoy your hard work long after it’s completed.
1. Frame It as a Work of Art
One of the most popular ways to display a completed puzzle is by framing it and turning it into a piece of art. Whether your puzzle is a breathtaking cityscape, a beautiful painting, or a nostalgic memory, framing it allows you to appreciate it every day.
How to Frame Your Puzzle
To turn your puzzle into wall art, you’ll need to secure the pieces so they don’t fall apart. Here’s how:
Glue It Together – Apply puzzle glue or a puzzle adhesive sheet to the surface. This helps hold all the pieces in place and protects it from damage.
Mount It on a Backing Board – Use foam board or cardboard as a base to keep the puzzle flat and prevent warping.
Choose a Frame – Don’t spend a fortune. You can buy affordable puzzle frames that complement the puzzle’s design and fit the space where you plan to hang it. A simple black or white frame works well for modern decor, while a rustic wooden frame adds warmth and charm.
Where to Display It
Framed puzzles can add personality to almost any room. Consider hanging yours in:
The Living Room – As a conversation starter and focal point.
A Home Office – To inspire creativity and motivation.
A Kid’s Room – If the puzzle features a fun or educational theme.
By framing your puzzle, you can transform a simple hobby into a beautiful home accent that reflects your interests and passions.
2. Turn It Into a Tabletop
If you want to incorporate your finished puzzle into everyday life, consider turning it into a tabletop or decorative surface. This option is both functional and visually appealing, allowing you to enjoy your puzzle while protecting it from wear and tear.
How to Create a Puzzle Table
Glue the Puzzle – Secure the pieces using puzzle glue or a clear adhesive sheet to keep everything intact.
Find a Table with a Glass Top – Use a coffee table, side table, or dining table with a removable glass surface.
Place the Puzzle Underneath – Position your completed puzzle under the glass to create an instant statement piece.
Alternative Option: Resin-Coated Puzzle Table
For a more permanent design, you can coat your puzzle with epoxy resin to create a smooth, durable surface. This method protects the puzzle from spills and scratches, making it ideal for high-use areas like coffee tables or dining surfaces.
A puzzle table adds character to your home and serves as a daily reminder of your accomplishment, making it a great addition to family rooms, game rooms, or even home bars.
3. Create a Puzzle Wall Collage
If you love puzzles and have completed multiple designs over time, why not create a puzzle wall collage? Instead of choosing just one to display, arrange several puzzles together for an eclectic and artistic feature wall.
How to Arrange Your Puzzle Collage
Choose a Theme – Pick puzzles with a similar color palette, subject, or size for a cohesive look.
Use Different Frame Styles – Mix and match frames to add variety, or use identical frames for a clean, modern aesthetic.
Create a Gallery Layout – Arrange the puzzles on the floor first to experiment with different layouts before mounting them on the wall.
Where to Install a Puzzle Collage
Hallways – To add visual interest to an otherwise plain space.
Staircases – A fun way to showcase multiple pieces at different heights.
Game Rooms – Perfect for displaying puzzles with nostalgic or playful designs.
A puzzle collage is a great way to celebrate your puzzle-solving skills while adding color, texture, and personality to your walls.
4. Make Unique Puzzle Coasters and Trivets
For a smaller, practical way to repurpose your finished puzzle, consider transforming it into coasters or trivets. This is an excellent option for puzzles that may be too small to frame but still hold sentimental value.
How to Make Puzzle Coasters and Trivets
Cut the Puzzle into Smaller Sections – Use a craft knife or scissors to trim the puzzle into uniform squares (for coasters) or larger pieces (for trivets).
Seal with a Protective Coating – Apply a layer of clear epoxy resin, Mod Podge, or waterproof sealant to keep the pieces intact and protect them from moisture.
Attach a Backing – Glue cork or felt to the back of each piece to prevent scratching surfaces.
Where to Use Puzzle Coasters and Trivets
In the Kitchen – As trivets for hot pots and pans.
In the Living Room – As unique conversation-starter coasters.
As Gifts – A thoughtful and creative way to repurpose a puzzle with sentimental value.
These small yet meaningful puzzle projects allow you to repurpose your work in a fun and functional way.
5. Mount It as a Floating Display
For a modern and sophisticated look, consider mounting your finished puzzle as a floating display. This technique gives the puzzle a sleek, frameless appearance that makes it look as if it's suspended on the wall.
How to Create a Floating Puzzle Display
Glue and Mount the Puzzle – Secure the pieces with puzzle glue and attach the puzzle to a foam board backing.
Use Wall Spacers or Acrylic Mounts – Attach small spacers or an acrylic sheet behind the puzzle to create a floating effect.
Secure to the Wall – Mount the puzzle using adhesive strips or small brackets for a seamless finish.
A floating display is perfect for modern interiors and works well in entryways, offices, and minimalist spaces where a sleek, frameless look enhances the decor.
Final Thoughts
Instead of taking apart your finished puzzle and storing it away, try transforming it into a decorative feature in your home. Whether you choose to frame it, turn it into a table, create a collage, make coasters, or mount it as a floating display, your puzzle can continue to bring joy and beauty long after you’ve placed the final piece.
Each of these display ideas allows you to celebrate your puzzle-solving skills while adding a unique, personal touch to your space. So the next time you complete a puzzle, don’t just put it back in the box—turn it into something worth showing off!
Our writers like to blog about interiors. We launched the award-winning Seasons in Colour in 2015 and the luxury property and interior decor blog www.alltheprettyhomes.com in 2024 to cover all your interior design, travel and lifestyle inspiration needs. Download our free bathroom renovation guide here.