How to glue a jigsaw puzzle together for mounting?

Gluing a Jigsaw Puzzle together for Mounting: A Step-by-Step Guide

Mounting a jigsaw puzzle to a surface or backing can be a beautiful way to display your completed puzzle. But, before you start, it’s essential to glue the pieces together correctly. Incorrect gluing techniques can lead to flaking, lifting, or other issues that ruin the overall display. In this article, we’ll outline the step-by-step process for gluing a jigsaw puzzle together for mounting. Please follow these simple steps carefully to ensure a seamless and long-lasting glued puzzle.

Gather Needed Materials

Before starting the gluing process, make sure you have the following essential materials:

  • The completed jigsaw puzzle

  • A flat surface

  • A good-quality puzzle adhesive (such as Spray Adhere or Decou-Page)

  • A brush for applying glue

  • A clean, lint-free cloth for wiping away excess adhesive

  • A weight (optional but recommended)

  • A ruler or level (optional)

  • A frame, canvas, or mounting board for creating a finished piece

Tips for Choosing the Right Glue:

Before selecting a glue, please consider the following:

  • Will the glue work on most puzzle materials?: Some glue may not adhere well to paper-backed puzzles.

  • Are you planning a wet adhesive or dry adhesive: Dry adhesives are more suitable for large puzzles.

Applying the Glue: Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Lay the Completed Puzzle: Start by lying the completed puzzle on a flat surface, right side up. This will allow any excess glue to run off the piece and prevent streaks and bubbles.

  2. Apply the Adhesive: Spray a small amount of adhesivespray onto your brush and apply an even thin coat to the entire surface of the puzzle.

Note: Avoid apply too much glue, as excess glue can lead to pooling and issues upon drying.

  1. Wipe Excess Glue (Optional): Use a clean, lint-free cloth to wipe away excess adhesive. This will ensure a seamless finish and prevent lumps during drying.

  2. Apply Additional Adhesive (If Necessary): If you find areas where you missed spots or need touch-ups, now is the time. Repeat the gluing process.

Allowing the Glue to Dry:

  1. Drying Methods: You can use various methods for glue drying, including:

    • Fans: Use a fan on a gentle setting to speed up the drying process while keeping the area slightly humid for better adhesion.

    • Drying Stands (optional): A drying rack or stand can help maintain flexibility during drying.

Mounting the Glued Puzzle:

When the glue is dry and the piece is flat, you’re ready to proceed with mounting:

  • Frame Size: Choose a frame, canvas, or mounting board that fits the completed puzzle.

    • Consider size adjustments: Round the frame size if necessary due to the puzzle size.

    • Keep margins: Have a small margin (approximately 10-15%) to ensure it fits comfortably inside the frame with ease.

  • Place the Puzzle into the Frame: Use your hands (or a dry cloth gently) to slide the completed puzzle into position, ensuring alignment with your frame or board. Apply gentle downward pressure to secure it.

Add Final Touches:

  1. Weight: Add a weight(s) to the corners of the assembled puzzle to prevent any movement or dislodging while it acquires final touches.

  2. Level and Plumb It: Check if the puzzle rests flat on the wall and adjust levels if necessary.

Precautionary Measures:

Please note when gluing your puzzle:

  • Handle with care: Avoid extreme temperatures, humidity, and direct sunlight on the finished puzzle, as moisture and temperature changes may cause the surface to lift or become sticky.

  • UV protection: If necessary, store your finished piece in a non-glare protective sleeve while on display, such as photo paper or glass covers.

Conclusion :
Gluing a jigsaw puzzle together for mounting may seem laborious, but these simple guidelines will help you create a beautiful, museum-quality piece with minimal investment of time and materials. By preparing the puzzle surface correctly, applying consistent adhesive, and following steps for allowance drying, your finished mosaic will last for generations.

Additional FAQs:

Q & A

How do I ensure proper adhesion from the beginning?

A simple answer is by using either a dry or spray adhesive system, and having a pre-treated surface area for more optimal adhesion.

I’m concerned about the puzzle developing wrinkles during glue drying can I do anything about it? Are there any preventative methods?
No, it’s more likely this occurs when over-glutting the surface; try lighter application for prevention. Monitor and correct before drying entirely.

How to remove glare on a jigsaw puzzled finished and mounted. How to enhance the overall visualization? What adjustments can improve it?

To control glare, apply anti- reflection coating on acrylic or remove any glass glare. Rotate your display slightly; adjust distance or use proper lighting. Keep it lit within the 15-30 watts white LED light spectrum with a CRI of at least 90% for vivid colors

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