Introduction
Few things are more frustrating to a puzzle enthusiast than completing a beautiful jigsaw puzzle—only to discover that one piece is missing. Whether it’s been lost during unpacking, eaten by a curious pet, or simply vanished into the ether, a missing puzzle piece can feel like a major letdown. But don’t worry—all hope is not lost. With some patience, creativity, and the right materials, you can make a replacement piece that fits perfectly and blends right in.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of making a missing jigsaw puzzle piece at home, with tips from puzzle pros and techniques that comply with best practices in craftsmanship. Whether you're restoring a cherished puzzle or saving a newly purchased one, this step-by-step guide will help you bring your puzzle back to completion.
Why Replacing a Missing Piece Matters
Completing the Picture—Literally and Emotionally
For many puzzle lovers, the act of finishing a puzzle provides a satisfying sense of closure. A missing piece leaves that feeling incomplete. Replacing it isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about restoring the experience.
Preserving Heirlooms and Collector's Items
Some puzzles hold sentimental or monetary value. Family heirlooms, limited-edition puzzles, or custom photo puzzles deserve full restoration. Making a new piece can maintain both emotional and material worth.
Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Materials
To replicate a puzzle piece, you’ll need a few key supplies. Most of these can be found around the house or at your local art supply store:
- A blank piece of cardboard (ideally similar in thickness to your puzzle)
- A printout or photo of the completed puzzle (optional but helpful)
- A pencil and fine-tip pen
- A hobby knife (e.g., X-Acto knife)
- Scissors
- Glue (craft glue or a glue stick)
- A scanner/printer (optional but highly recommended)
- Paints or colored pencils (for touch-ups)
- Clear varnish or sealant (optional, for added durability)
Step 2: Identify the Missing Piece’s Shape and Position
Before you start crafting, you need a precise understanding of the missing piece’s shape and location.
Use the Puzzle Grid
- Look at the neighboring pieces around the missing one. Use their interlocking tabs and holes to determine the contours of the missing piece.
- Snap a photo of the empty space for reference.
Take a Digital Scan (if possible)
- If you still have the puzzle box image, scan or photograph the image.
- Import it into a photo editing tool and overlay a grid to isolate the area of the missing piece.
Step 3: Create the Replacement Base
You’ll be cutting a new piece from cardboard that matches your puzzle in both thickness and stiffness.
Trace the Shape
- Carefully place a sheet of tracing paper over the empty space and lightly trace the shape from the neighboring edges.
- If the piece isn’t too close to the puzzle’s edge, you might temporarily remove surrounding pieces to get a cleaner outline.
Cut the Shape
- Transfer the traced outline onto your blank cardboard.
- Use your hobby knife to carefully cut along the outline. Precision is key here.
- Test the fit by inserting the piece into the empty space. It should fit snugly without needing to be forced.
Step 4: Recreate the Puzzle Image
Option 1: Scan and Print (Most Accurate)
- If you have access to a high-resolution scanner, scan the completed puzzle image from the box or a full photo.
- Crop the image to match the missing section.
- Print it out to scale (size is critical!) and glue it onto your cardboard cutout.
Option 2: Manual Recreation
- If you can’t scan, use a high-resolution photo of the completed puzzle as a guide.
- Lightly sketch the image onto your cardboard piece using a pencil.
- Fill in the image with colored pencils or paint to match the surrounding artwork.
Tip: Blend colors carefully and match patterns or textures. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect—your eye will be drawn to the whole image, not one tiny detail.
Step 5: Final Touches and Fitting
Once your artwork is done, it’s time to apply finishing touches.
Seal the Piece
- If desired, use a light coat of clear varnish or Mod Podge to seal your work. This will give it a similar finish to the original puzzle.
- Allow it to dry completely before fitting it into the puzzle.
Fine-Tune the Edges
- If the piece feels too tight or too loose, lightly sand or trim the edges until it clicks in just right.
- Be patient—small adjustments make a big difference.
Tips from Puzzle Enthusiasts
Practice First
If it’s your first time attempting this, try practicing on a test piece. Use an unimportant puzzle or create a mock-up with scrap materials.
Document Your Work
Take photos of your process. It’s not only satisfying to see your progress, but it also helps if you need to redo any steps.
Store Extras for Future Fixes
Save any leftover printed material, matching cardboard, or tools. You never know when another piece might vanish.
Alternatives: What If You’d Rather Not DIY?
Contact the Manufacturer
Some puzzle companies offer replacement piece services. Reach out with your puzzle’s name, brand, and piece location. However, note:
- Not all companies provide this service.
- You may need to send in the surrounding pieces for reference.
- There’s usually a wait time.
Commission a Puzzle Repair Artist
Yes, this is a real thing! Puzzle restorers or artists can be found online who specialize in fixing or replicating missing pieces, especially for valuable or vintage puzzles.
Frame It As-Is
If the missing piece can’t be replicated exactly, consider displaying your puzzle anyway. You can:
- Mount it in a frame with a caption or decorative plaque.
- Use the absence as part of the artwork—a unique story about the puzzle’s journey.
Conclusion
Replacing a missing puzzle piece isn’t just a fix—it’s a fun project in its own right. With a little creativity and patience, you can restore your puzzle and relive the joy of seeing it completed. Whether you go for a scanner-perfect replica or a hand-painted mini-masterpiece, the satisfaction of making your puzzle whole again is worth every minute spent.
At PuzzleMerchant.com, we understand how important every piece is. That’s why we celebrate puzzle passion in all its forms—DIY fixes included. Happy puzzling!
About the writer: Will Roya is a lifelong gaming and puzzle enthusiast. He is the founder of Puzzle Merchant and author of the book Card Night.
Last update date: 4/9/25