Moving a puzzle, especially a jigsaw puzzle, without disturbing its meticulously placed pieces requires a stable, flat surface and careful execution. The most effective method involves using a rigid base to support the puzzle entirely during transit.
Essential Tools for Puzzle Mobility
To safely move a puzzle, you'll primarily need a sturdy and flat object that is larger than the puzzle's dimensions. This could be:
- A dedicated puzzle board: These are often made of felt-covered wood or rigid foam, sometimes with raised edges or non-slip surfaces.
- A large piece of cardboard or foam core: Ensure it is thick and strong enough not to bend under the puzzle's weight.
- A cutting mat: If large enough and rigid.
- A thin piece of plywood or hardboard: An ideal choice for its rigidity.
Step-by-Step Guide to Moving Your Puzzle
Follow these steps to ensure a smooth and damage-free relocation of your puzzle:
- Prepare Your Surface: Clear the destination area where you intend to move the puzzle. Ensure it's flat, clean, and large enough to accommodate the puzzle and its temporary base.
- Position the Rigid Base: Carefully slide your chosen large, flat board or rigid object underneath the puzzle. Begin from one edge and gently push it forward, ensuring it remains level as it goes beneath the entire puzzle. Apply even pressure to prevent any sections from lifting or separating.
- Lift with Even Pressure: Once the rigid base is fully beneath the puzzle, slowly and evenly apply pressure to lift the entire assembly from your current workspace. The key is to keep the puzzle as level as possible throughout this process to maintain its integrity. Avoid any sudden jerks or tilting.
- Transport to New Location: While holding the board firmly, carefully move the puzzle to its new desired location. Maintain a steady grip and continue to keep the board horizontal.
- Lower and Remove Base: Once at the new spot, gently lower the board onto the surface. Then, slowly and evenly slide the rigid base out from underneath the puzzle, ensuring no pieces snag or dislodge as it's removed.
Tips for a Seamless Move
- Ensure Pieces Are Fully Locked: Before attempting any move, double-check that all connected pieces are fully interlocked. Loose connections are prone to breaking apart.
- Work on a Non-Slip Surface: If possible, assemble your puzzle on a non-slip mat or surface initially, as this can prevent accidental shifts during placement of the rigid board.
- Protect Edges: Be mindful of the puzzle's edges, as these are often the most fragile parts and can easily get bent or damaged during movement.
- Seek Assistance for Large Puzzles: For very large or heavy puzzles, consider having a second person assist you. One person can hold one side of the board, and the other can hold the opposite, ensuring balanced support.
Alternative Solutions for Puzzle Storage and Mobility
Beyond direct movement with a board, several products are designed to aid in puzzle handling:
- Puzzle Mats and Roll-Up Systems: These are typically felt mats that allow you to roll up an in-progress or completed puzzle around a cardboard tube. They are excellent for temporary storage or moving a puzzle short distances without a rigid board, though they might distort the puzzle slightly if not rolled tightly.
- Puzzle Boards with Drawers: Some advanced puzzle boards come with integrated drawers for sorting and storing unplaced pieces, offering a complete workstation that can often be moved from one surface to another.
- Permanent Solutions: Puzzle Glue: If the puzzle is completed and you wish to preserve it permanently, you can apply puzzle glue to the top surface. Once dry, the puzzle becomes a solid piece, making it much easier to handle, frame, or display.
By using the right tools and employing careful, deliberate movements, you can effectively transport your puzzle without breaking it.
