The Ultimate Guide to Buying the Perfect Puzzle

Store Jigsaw Puzzle: The Ultimate Guide to Buying the Perfect Puzzle
Jigsaw puzzles are a timeless hobby that offers relaxation, mental stimulation, and a sense of accomplishment. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced puzzler, choosing the right puzzle can make all the difference. If you’re looking to store jigsaw puzzle options or find the best puzzles to buy, this guide covers everything you need to know.
In this article, we’ll explore:
Where to Buy Jigsaw Puzzles (Online & In-Store)
Types of Jigsaw Puzzles Available
Price Ranges & Best Value Picks
How to Choose the Right Puzzle for You
Tips for Storing & Preserving Puzzles
Let’s dive in!
1. Where to Buy Jigsaw Puzzles (Best Stores & Online Retailers)
A. Online Stores for Jigsaw Puzzles
Store | Why Buy Here? | Best For |
---|---|---|
Amazon | Huge selection, fast shipping | Budget puzzles, rare finds |
Ravensburger | High-quality, premium puzzles | Serious puzzlers |
Etsy | Handmade & custom puzzles | Personalized gifts |
Barnes & Noble | Exclusive editions & book-themed puzzles | Collectors |
eBay | Vintage & discontinued puzzles | Rare puzzles |
B. Physical Stores Selling Jigsaw Puzzles
- Target / Walmart – Affordable puzzles (300-1000 pieces)
- GameStop / Toy Stores – Licensed puzzles (Disney, Marvel, etc.)
- Local Bookstores – Unique & artistic puzzles
- Thrift Stores – Cheap second-hand puzzles (check for missing pieces!)
Pro Tip: Some specialty puzzle stores offer “try before you buy” tables where you can test a puzzle before purchasing.
2. Types of Jigsaw Puzzles Available
Not all puzzles are the same! Here’s a breakdown of different types:
A. By Piece Count
- Kids’ Puzzles (12-100 pieces) – Great for young children
- Beginner Puzzles (300-500 pieces) – Perfect for new puzzlers
- Intermediate (750-1000 pieces) – Balanced challenge
- Expert Level (2000+ pieces) – For serious puzzlers
B. By Material
- Cardboard – Standard, affordable
- Wooden – Durable, premium feel
- 3D Puzzles – Buildable structures (Eiffel Tower, globes)
- Magnetic / Travel Puzzles – Portable & mess-free
C. By Theme
- Nature & Landscapes (Mountains, oceans, forests)
- Pop Culture (Harry Potter, Star Wars, Marvel)
- Art & Famous Paintings (Van Gogh, Monet)
- Custom Photo Puzzles (Personalized with your own images)
3. Price Ranges: What Should You Expect?
Price Range | What You Get | Best Brands |
---|---|---|
5−15 | Small puzzles (100-300 pieces), basic designs | Buffalo Games, Ceaco |
15−30 | Mid-range (500-1000 pieces), better quality | Ravensburger, Eurographics |
30−60 | Large puzzles (1500+ pieces), premium materials | Pomegranate, Artifact |
$60+ | Luxury wooden puzzles, custom designs | Liberty Puzzles, Wentworth |
Best Budget Pick: Buffalo Games (high-quality, affordable)
Best Premium Pick: Ravensburger (no glare, sturdy pieces)
4. How to Choose the Right Jigsaw Puzzle
A. Consider Skill Level
- Beginners: Start with 300-500 pieces.
- Intermediate: Try 1000-piece puzzles.
- Experts: Go for 2000+ or irregular-cut puzzles for extra challenge.
B. Pick a Theme You Love
- Nature lovers? Landscapes, animals.
- Movie fans? Licensed puzzles (Disney, LOTR).
- Art enthusiasts? Famous paintings or abstract designs.
C. Check Reviews for Quality
- Look for “no glare” finishes (prevents eye strain).
- Avoid puzzles with loose-fitting pieces (Ravensburger is best for snug fits).
5. How to Store Jigsaw Puzzles Properly
If you don’t finish a puzzle in one sitting, here’s how to store jigsaw puzzle pieces safely:
A. Puzzle Storage Solutions
- Puzzle Mats (Roll up & save progress)
- Portable Puzzle Boards (With covers to prevent spills)
- Ziplock Bags (Sort by edge/middle pieces)
- DIY Storage (Use baking trays or cardboard sheets)
B. Preserving Completed Puzzles
- Puzzle Glue (Mod Podge or specialty glue to frame them)
- Poster Frames (Display your finished work)
- Puzzle Conserver Sheets (Keep them intact for re-solving)
Pro Tip: If you swap puzzles with friends, take a photo of the completed puzzle to ensure no missing pieces!
6. Best Jigsaw Puzzle Brands in 2024
Brand | Why It’s Great | Price Range |
---|---|---|
Ravensburger | Gold standard, no glare, tight fits | 15−50 |
Buffalo Games | Affordable, vibrant prints | 10−30 |
Eurographics | Smart-cut technology, art puzzles | 20−40 |
Pomegranate | Museum-quality art prints | 25−60 |
Liberty Puzzles | Hand-cut wooden puzzles | $100+ |
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Where can I buy rare jigsaw puzzles?
A: Check eBay, Etsy, or specialty puzzle stores for discontinued editions.
Q: How do I know if a puzzle is good quality?
A: Look for thick pieces, minimal dust, and strong interlocking fits (Ravensburger is best).
Q: Are expensive puzzles worth it?
A: If you’re a serious puzzler, yes! Premium puzzles last longer and are more enjoyable.
Q: Can I make my own custom puzzle?
A: Yes! Shutterfly, PuzzleYou, and Etsy offer custom photo puzzles.
8. Final Verdict: Where Should You Buy Your Next Puzzle?
Best for Budget Shoppers: Amazon, Walmart, Buffalo Games
Best for Collectors: Ravensburger, Eurographics, Pomegranate
Best for Unique Finds: Etsy, eBay, local thrift stores
Whether you’re buying your first puzzle or adding to a collection, this guide helps you store jigsaw puzzle options wisely. Happy puzzling!
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Did we miss your favorite puzzle brand? Let us know in the comments!
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