For many puzzle enthusiasts, the joy of completing a jigsaw puzzle is unmatched. But as your collection grows, so does the challenge of keeping it organized. Piles of puzzle boxes can quickly take over your shelves, closets, and spare spaces if left unchecked. Whether you have a few favorite puzzles or a growing collection of hundreds, having an effective storage system can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll explore practical and creative solutions to organize your puzzles. From space-saving storage ideas to tips for preserving puzzle pieces, this article will help you keep your collection neat, accessible, and in excellent condition.
Why Puzzle Storage Matters
Protecting Your Investment
Jigsaw puzzles can be costly, especially if you’re a fan of premium or limited-edition designs. Proper storage ensures that your puzzles remain in top condition, preventing missing pieces, box damage, or warped boards.
Saving Space
Without a system, puzzle boxes can take up significant room in your home. Organizing your puzzles allows you to maximize your storage space and keep your living area tidy.
Easy Accessibility
When your puzzles are well-organized, it’s easier to find the one you want to work on. No more digging through piles or dealing with mismatched pieces—everything will have its place.
Assessing Your Puzzle Collection
Categorize Your Puzzles
Start by sorting your collection. Group puzzles by categories such as:
- Piece Count: Organize by difficulty level, like 500-piece, 1,000-piece, or 2,000-piece puzzles.
- Themes: Group puzzles by themes, such as landscapes, animals, or abstract designs.
- Brands: If you have a preference for certain brands, like Ravensburger or Cobble Hill, store these together.
Declutter When Needed
As you go through your collection, consider donating or gifting puzzles you no longer enjoy. Puzzle swaps or community donation programs are great ways to share puzzles you’ve completed and free up space for new ones.
Puzzle Storage Options
1. Traditional Puzzle Boxes
The original box your puzzle comes in is often the easiest and most practical storage solution. However, large collections can make it difficult to manage piles of bulky boxes. Here are some tips for storing puzzles in their boxes:
- Vertical Stacking: Stack boxes vertically like books on a shelf to save space and make them easier to access.
- Labeling: Use labels on the spine of each box for quick identification, especially if the design isn’t visible when stacked.
2. Puzzle Storage Bins
Plastic or fabric storage bins are an excellent option for keeping puzzles organized and protected from dust or moisture. Look for stackable bins with transparent sides so you can see the contents at a glance.
- Size Matters: Choose bins that are large enough to fit puzzle boxes without squishing them.
- Dividers: Use dividers inside the bins to separate puzzles by category or size.
3. Puzzle Roll Mats
For in-progress puzzles, roll mats are a lifesaver. These mats allow you to store and transport partially completed puzzles without losing your progress.
- How They Work: Lay your puzzle on the mat, then roll it up using the included tube. Secure it with straps to keep the pieces in place.
- Compact and Portable: Roll mats are ideal for those who don’t have a dedicated puzzle table and need to free up space between solving sessions.
4. Puzzle Portfolios
Puzzle portfolios or carrying cases are designed for puzzle enthusiasts who want to keep their collection compact and portable. These portfolios typically include compartments for storing multiple puzzles and a surface for assembling pieces.
- Great for Small Spaces: Portfolios are perfect if you’re short on storage space or want to take your puzzles on the go.
- Piece Protection: Most portfolios come with secure closures to prevent pieces from getting lost.
5. Zippered Bags
Zippered pouches or fabric bags are a space-efficient alternative to traditional puzzle boxes. They’re particularly useful for puzzles you’ve completed and want to save without keeping the bulky box.
- Compact Storage: Transfer puzzle pieces into a labeled zippered bag and recycle the original box.
- Eco-friendly: Look for reusable, durable bags made from sustainable materials.
6. Shelving Units
Investing in a dedicated shelving unit for your puzzles can make a big difference in your organizational setup. Adjustable shelves allow you to customize the space for various box sizes.
- Bookshelf Hack: Use a standard bookshelf to display your puzzle boxes neatly. Add decorative bins or baskets for loose pieces or smaller puzzles.
- Custom Shelving: If you’re serious about your collection, consider custom shelves built to fit your puzzles perfectly.
Preserving Puzzle Pieces
Preventing Wear and Tear
Puzzle pieces can become damaged over time if not stored properly. Here’s how to keep them in great shape:
- Avoid Humidity: Store puzzles in a cool, dry place to prevent warping or mold growth.
- Protect from Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can fade the colors on puzzle pieces.
- Use Sealable Bags: For puzzles stored without their original boxes, place pieces in resealable bags to prevent loss or damage.
Protecting Completed Puzzles
If you want to display or preserve a completed puzzle, consider these options:
- Puzzle Glue: Apply puzzle glue to the front of your puzzle to secure the pieces together. Frame it for a beautiful display.
- Puzzle Frames: Many retailers offer frames specifically designed for jigsaw puzzles. These frames make it easy to showcase your work without damaging the pieces.
Creative Storage Ideas
Repurpose Household Items
You don’t always need to buy specialized storage solutions. Here are some household items that work well for puzzles:
- Shoe Boxes: Perfect for storing smaller puzzles or loose pieces.
- Tackle Boxes: Use a fishing tackle box to sort and store small puzzles or individual pieces by color or shape.
- Magazine Holders: Stack flat puzzle boxes upright in magazine holders to keep them organized on shelves.
DIY Puzzle Storage
For a personal touch, try making your own puzzle storage system. Some ideas include:
- Decorative Boxes: Paint or decorate plain cardboard boxes to create stylish puzzle storage.
- Hanging Bins: Install wall-mounted bins or pockets to hold puzzle boxes and free up floor space.
Maintaining Your Collection
Regular Organization
Set aside time every few months to review your collection. Check for damaged or incomplete puzzles, reorganize shelves, and ensure everything is in its proper place.
Swap and Share
Participate in puzzle swaps or lend puzzles to friends. This keeps your collection fresh without adding clutter.
Document Your Puzzles
Keep a record of your collection, noting completed puzzles, missing pieces, or puzzles on loan. A simple spreadsheet or a puzzle-tracking app can help.
Conclusion
Organizing your puzzle collection doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right storage solutions, you can protect your puzzles, save space, and make it easier to enjoy your favorite hobby. Whether you opt for traditional storage methods or get creative with DIY options, the key is to find a system that works for your space and lifestyle. A well-organized collection means less time searching and more time solving—and that’s a win for any puzzle enthusiast.
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: 1/24/25