Putting together a puzzle is a wonderful way to calm down and slow down. However, even the most experienced puzzle enthusiasts know that sometimes it's good to have a few clever tricks up your sleeve to make the job easier and more enjoyable.
We've put together a few simple but effective techniques for you to try the next time you lay out your puzzle on the table.
1. Prepare a good place
Start with a comfortable, well-lit table — preferably one that you won't have to clean up every evening. Puzzles like peace and quiet and a permanent place. If you don't have a large table, a puzzle mat is a great solution, which you can roll up and put away when needed.
2. The frame first
This is the golden rule for puzzle enthusiasts: find all the edge pieces first. Once you have the frame, you have an outline of the whole picture. This is very satisfying — the first stage is complete, and you immediately feel that something is happening.
3. Sort, sort, sort
Good sorting is half the battle. Divide the pieces by color, pattern, and even shape. You can use small boxes, bowls, or special puzzle sorters. Some people even use muffin tins — any method is good if it helps you stay organized.
4. Start with distinctive pieces
Once you have the frame ready, look for pieces in the picture that are easy to find — for example, a distinct pattern, a face, an inscription, or a large area of color. These pieces create a sense of progress and motivate you to continue working.
5. Look at the shapes
Don't just focus on the color — pay attention to the shapes of the puzzle pieces. Sometimes similar colors can be confusing, but distinctive ends and indentations reveal where a piece fits. Experienced puzzlers learn to recognize the types of “teeth” and “holes” in puzzles — it really makes the job easier!
6. Take breaks
Don't fight with the puzzle. Sometimes it's enough to walk away for a moment, have a cup of tea, look at it from a different perspective — and suddenly the missing piece “catches your eye.” Puzzles teach patience — let that patience apply to yourself as well.
7. Celebrate putting the puzzle together
Puzzles are not a race. At Piece of Mind, we believe that putting together a puzzle is a little ritual — a moment for yourself, a time when you can slow down. Light a candle, turn on your favorite playlist, sit back and relax. It's not about finishing as quickly as possible — it's about enjoying every moment.