Creative Ways to Store Your Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces

Storing jigsaw puzzle pieces can be a challenge, especially if you’re working on multiple puzzles or don’t want to lose any pieces in the process. Whether you’re an avid puzzler or just enjoy a few leisurely sessions, keeping your puzzle pieces organized is key to maintaining your sanity and your puzzle’s integrity. Here are some creative and practical ways to store your jigsaw puzzle pieces.

1. Use a Puzzle Roll-Up Mat

How It Works: A roll-up mat is a flexible surface where you can sort your pieces and roll the mat up when you’re done. This allows you to easily store your puzzle without taking up too much space.
Why It’s Great: It’s portable, saves space, and keeps your pieces secure. You can easily unroll the mat and continue your puzzle whenever you’re ready.
Best For: People who don’t have a permanent space for puzzles or need to take their puzzle on the go.

2. Plastic Ziplock Bags for Sorting

How It Works: Separate your puzzle pieces into clear ziplock bags, labeling each one according to colors, edges, patterns, or sections of the puzzle.
Why It’s Great: Ziplock bags are inexpensive, easy to label, and allow you to quickly grab the pieces you need. You can also stack the bags neatly for compact storage.
Best For: Budget-conscious puzzlers who prefer a simple, accessible way to store pieces while keeping everything organized.

3. Puzzle Piece Storage Trays or Boxes

How It Works: Use shallow plastic trays or compartments within a box to separate pieces. You can organize pieces by color, shape, or section of the puzzle.
Why It’s Great: Trays or boxes allow for easy organization, and you can neatly store the trays when not in use. The pieces are also easy to access and stay in place.
Best For: Puzzlers with dedicated space for sorting and storing pieces, especially for large puzzles.

4. Drawer Organizers or Craft Storage

How It Works: Use drawer organizers, craft bins, or tackle boxes, which offer multiple small compartments for sorting puzzle pieces by type or color.
Why It’s Great: These organizers are stackable and often come with dividers, making it easier to sort and access pieces as you work through the puzzle.
Best For: Puzzlers with a lot of space to dedicate to organizing and who want to keep everything in one compact, easily accessible spot.

5. Repurposed Cookie Tins or Cereal Boxes

How It Works: Use old cookie tins, cereal boxes, or shoe boxes to store your puzzle pieces. For larger puzzles, you can even use a few different boxes to organize pieces by color or section.
Why It’s Great: These containers are free and easy to repurpose, and you can even decorate them to match your puzzle style.
Best For: Environmentally conscious puzzlers or those who enjoy upcycling household items.

6. Puzzle Boards with Drawers

How It Works: Invest in a dedicated puzzle board that has drawers or compartments for organizing pieces while keeping them safe and easily accessible. These boards provide a flat surface to work on, with plenty of storage for pieces underneath.
Why It’s Great: A puzzle board is an all-in-one solution that not only stores pieces but also provides a solid workspace. The drawers keep pieces neatly organized and secure when not in use.
Best For: Serious puzzlers who want a functional and stylish storage option that doubles as a work surface.

7. Hanging Storage Bags or Organizers

How It Works: Use a hanging storage organizer with clear pockets, which allows you to store and view pieces easily. You can hang it on a door or in your closet to keep pieces separated.
Why It’s Great: It saves space and makes the most of vertical storage. The clear pockets allow you to quickly identify the pieces you need.
Best For: Those with limited space or people who prefer a vertical storage solution.

8. Puzzle Piece Sorting Tray with Lids

How It Works: Use a puzzle piece sorting tray with individual compartments and secure lids to prevent pieces from spilling. These trays often come in a set of multiple trays, allowing you to separate pieces by color, shape, or section.
Why It’s Great: The lids keep pieces secure and dust-free, and the multiple trays help you stay organized.
Best For: Puzzlers who like to keep pieces separated and who have a dedicated space to work on and store their puzzles.

9. Clear Plastic Storage Bins with Labels

How It Works: Store your puzzle pieces in clear plastic bins with labels for easy identification. This method works well for storing pieces from multiple puzzles or for organizing by puzzle section.
Why It’s Great: The bins are transparent, so you can see the pieces inside, and labeling helps keep everything organized. These bins are also stackable and space-efficient.
Best For: Those who have several puzzles on the go or want to store pieces long-term.

10. Puzzle Case with a Zipper

How It Works: Invest in a specialized puzzle case that comes with compartments and a zipper closure. This case will protect your pieces from dust, dirt, and spills.
Why It’s Great: A puzzle case is portable, durable, and allows you to store pieces without worrying about them getting damaged.
Best For: Traveling puzzlers or those who need a compact, portable storage solution.

Conclusion

Finding the right way to store your jigsaw puzzle pieces can make your puzzling experience more enjoyable and organized. Whether you prefer a low-cost solution like ziplock bags or a more sophisticated puzzle board, there are plenty of options to suit your style. With these creative storage solutions, you can keep your puzzle pieces safe, organized, and ready for the next challenge!