Make a jigsaw puzzle from your photo

How the puzzle is cut

Each cut line is a chain of three Bézier curves that draw a rounded knob, like a store-bought cardboard jigsaw. The shape of every knob (up or down, more or less off-center) is chosen at random, and neighboring pieces share exactly the same curve, so they interlock with no gaps.

\[ \text{pieces} = \text{columns} \times \text{rows} \]

Columns and rows are chosen so every piece stays nearly square, based on your photo's shape. With 24 pieces on a 3:2 photo you get 6 columns and 4 rows.

How many pieces should you pick?

Printing and cutting your puzzle

1. Print page 1 in color on photo paper or sticker paper.
2. Glue it to stiff cardboard about 1/16 in thick (chipboard or foam board).
3. Cut along the lines with a craft knife or fine scissors.
4. Page 2 is your reference picture; page 3 is the line template to mark the back.

For a sturdier puzzle, coat the top with matte varnish. A 24-piece puzzle on Letter makes pieces about 1.7 inches wide.

Which photo makes the best puzzle?

The picture decides how the puzzle plays. Pick a sharp, colorful photo with plenty of detail.

So every piece carries its own pattern, and you can place it faster. However, a plain blue sky or a white wall makes the game very hard, because the pieces look alike.

• For a child, choose a simple scene with bright colors.
• For an adult, pick a landscape or a busy crowd.
• If the photo looks soft, the puzzle looks soft too.

Also, think about the shape. A wide photo gives more columns, while a tall photo gives more rows.

How many pieces for which age?

The right piece count depends on age and free time. The table gives a starting point.

So a 5-year-old can finish 24 pieces alone. Also, you can play the free online version first to test the level. Then print the one that fits. If the puzzle feels too easy, just raise the piece count.

Printing and cutting your photo puzzle

The PDF holds everything you need. Follow these steps.

1. First, print page one on heavy paper, 65 lb cover or more.
2. Next, glue the sheet onto stiff 1/16 inch cardboard.
3. Then print the template on the back of the board, with thin lines.
4. After that, cut along the lines with a utility knife and a ruler.
5. Finally, keep the reference page as your guide picture.

If you do not own a knife, ask a print shop to cut the board. However, a sharp blade gives the cleanest edges, because a dull blade tears the paper.

Gift ideas and common mistakes

A photo puzzle makes an original gift. For example, give a family picture to a grandmother, or a team photo to a coworker who is moving on.

• For a birthday, use a photo from last year's party.
• For a wedding, pick a shot of the couple.
• For a trip, choose a view of the favorite spot.

However, a few slips ruin the result. First, a small photo turns blurry. Next, thin paper wrinkles when you cut it. Finally, many people skip the free online test before printing.

For more ideas, make a photo calendar or an announcement card with the same pictures. Then slip the puzzle into a greeting card.