How to Frame a Jigsaw Puzzle: Size, Style & Display Guide

Finishing a jigsaw puzzle can take hours, days, or even weeks. If the finished image means something to you, putting it back in the box can feel like the wrong ending. Framing turns that completed puzzle into wall art you can actually enjoy.

The key is choosing a frame based on the finished puzzle dimensions, not simply the number of pieces. A 500-piece puzzle and a 1,000-piece puzzle can have very different outside dimensions depending on the manufacturer and design.

Modern Memory Design currently offers a dedicated Puzzle Picture Frames collection, including sizes such as 20x27, 13x39, 18x24, 19x28, 20x28 and 38x26. For a less common size, browse our online custom picture framing collection.

What Size Frame Do I Need for a Jigsaw Puzzle?

Measure the completed puzzle from outer edge to outer edge in both directions. Do not assume the dimensions printed on a box are exact without checking the assembled puzzle.

Measure width and height

Place the completed puzzle on a flat surface and measure its actual width and height. If it measures 20 by 27 inches, start with a true 20x27 picture frame. Modern Memory Design also offers a dedicated 27.5x19.7-inch jigsaw puzzle picture frame.

Decide whether you want a mat

A frame that matches the puzzle dimensions gives you an edge-to-edge presentation. A mat creates visual breathing room and can make the finished piece feel more like traditional framed art. If you want matting, the frame itself needs to be larger than the puzzle.

Should You Glue a Puzzle Before Framing It?

The puzzle needs to remain stable while it is mounted and framed. Many puzzle owners choose to secure the assembled pieces before installation. The right method depends on whether you want the puzzle permanently preserved or potentially removable later.

If the puzzle is valuable, signed, vintage, or personally irreplaceable, consider professional framing rather than experimenting with adhesives. A framer can help determine an appropriate mounting method for the specific puzzle and desired presentation.

Choosing a Frame Style for Puzzle Wall Art

The frame should complement the image rather than compete with hundreds of individual puzzle pieces. Black, natural wood, gold, silver and traditional profiles can each create a different effect.

Black frames for colorful puzzles

A simple black frame creates a strong boundary around detailed or brightly colored artwork. For a common puzzle format, see the 20x27 black solid wood frame.

Natural wood for landscapes and warm interiors

Natural wood can soften the presentation of landscapes, botanical puzzles, travel scenes and neutral interiors. Modern Memory Design's 20x27 natural maple picture frame is one option in this size.

Gold or traditional frames for classic artwork

If your puzzle reproduces a historic painting, vintage illustration or decorative scene, a more traditional profile can make sense. Compare the 20x27 antique gold picture frame with other styles in the puzzle frame collection.

Where Should You Hang a Framed Puzzle?

Treat a framed puzzle like any other piece of artwork. A large, detailed puzzle can become a focal point over a desk, console, game table or reading area. A group of smaller puzzles can become a themed gallery wall.

For family rooms and game rooms, consider framing puzzles around a shared theme such as travel destinations, national parks, sports, maps or favorite artists. Children's completed puzzles can also become personalized bedroom or playroom décor.

What If Your Puzzle Is an Odd Size?

Puzzle manufacturers do not all work to the same dimensions, and a finished puzzle may not correspond to standard photo-frame sizes. Measure the exact assembled width and height before ordering.

Modern Memory Design sells both standard and less-common frame dimensions. Browse standard picture frame sizes, large picture frames, or the dedicated puzzle frame collection.

Why Choose Modern Memory Design for Puzzle Framing?

Modern Memory Design is a picture frame shop and online framing store based in Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey. The current site offers custom picture framing, photo and poster framing, canvas stretching and framing, shadow boxes, jersey framing, diploma framing, custom mat cutting, large-format printing and framing, and gallery wall design.

For puzzle projects, you can shop purpose-built puzzle frame sizes online, compare multiple frame styles in the same dimensions, or use custom framing when your finished puzzle does not fit a convenient ready-made size. Modern Memory Design identifies its custom frames as made in the USA.

Jigsaw Puzzle Framing FAQ

Can you put a jigsaw puzzle in a picture frame?

Yes. Measure the finished puzzle first and choose a frame whose opening and depth work for the assembled puzzle and mounting method.

What size frame fits a 1,000-piece puzzle?

There is no universal size for a 1,000-piece puzzle. Manufacturers use different finished dimensions, so measure the completed puzzle rather than choosing a frame by piece count.

Do I need to glue a puzzle before framing?

The puzzle must be stabilized for framing, but glue is not the only consideration. If you want a reversible treatment or the puzzle is valuable, ask a professional framer about mounting options before applying adhesive.

Can I frame a puzzle without a mat?

Yes. A frame sized to the finished puzzle can create an edge-to-edge look. A mat is optional and creates extra space between the puzzle and frame.

What frame color is best for a puzzle?

Black is versatile for colorful artwork, natural wood works well with warm or organic imagery, and gold or traditional profiles can complement vintage and classic-art puzzles.

How do I frame an odd-size puzzle?

Measure the exact assembled width and height, then search for that specific frame size. If it is not available as a ready-made size, custom framing is the practical next step.

Where can I buy puzzle picture frames?

Modern Memory Design has a dedicated online collection of puzzle picture frames, including several less-common dimensions and multiple frame styles.

Turn Your Finished Puzzle Into Wall Art

The hardest part is already done: you finished the puzzle. Measure it carefully, choose a frame that complements the artwork, and give the finished piece a place on the wall instead of putting it back in storage.

Shop Puzzle Picture Frames at Modern Memory Design or explore custom picture framing options for a size or presentation tailored to your project.