An Introduction To Jigsaw Puzzles

By Alison Cole

A jigsaw puzzle requires proper assembly of interlocked cut-out pieces resulting in the formation of a

figure or picture. British mapmaker John Spilsbury invented the jigsaw puzzle in 1760. It was intended to

be an educational toy. Puzzle maps are used even now to teach geography to children.

Puzzles were considered high-society entertainment, but technological advances brought down the

prices. Early jigsaw puzzles were of the very simple non-interlocking variety also called push-fit puzzles.

Jigsaw puzzles became very popular in early twentieth century, and their popularity was further boosted

with the invention of interlocking pieces. During the Great Depression, jigsaw puzzles became a very

popular form of family entertainment when drugstores and libraries started renting them out. Antique

wooden and cardboard puzzles are considered collectibles, and completed puzzles are rated even

higher. Wooden jigsaw puzzles are considered the best jigsaw puzzles. These puzzles are handcrafted

using mechanical scroll saws.

Jigsaw puzzles are typically available in 500-piece, 750-piece, and 1,000-piece sizes. Double-sided jigsaw

puzzles that can be solved from either side and three-dimensional jigsaw puzzles are also available.

Jigsaw puzzles are also differentiated by the method of cutting pieces. Some of the prevalent cutting

methods are fully interlocked with similar-shaped pieces, fully interlocked with uniform pieces, fully

interlocked with differently arranged blanks and tabs, and non-interlocked sides. Jigsaw puzzles that are

fully interlocked with uniform pieces are considered most difficult to solve. Modern jigsaw puzzles are

made of cardboard, with a photograph or artwork glued on to it. Cardboard is then punch-cut into

pieces with the help of metal dies. Castles and mountains are two of the popular images found on jigsaw

puzzles.

Here at www.jigsaw2order.com We offer an extensive range of jigsaw picture puzzle

sizes and design options and you can Personalized Jigsaw Puzzles from your own photos.