Jigsaw puzzles have entertained generations and have evolved from simple teaching aids to a global sensation. If you’ve ever been captivated by the allure of piecing together a scenic landscape or a challenging gradient, you’re not alone. In this article, we’ll dive into some riveting, fun jigsaw puzzle facts that’ll make your next puzzle-solving session even more intriguing!
1. A Tool to Teach Geography
In the annals of the history of jigsaw puzzles, John Spilsbury, an English cartographer, holds a special place. It was he who, in 1767, came up with the idea of “dissected maps”. These were essentially maps mounted on a piece of wood and then cut out. They were primarily designed to teach geography to children. It’s fascinating to think that the very first jigsaw puzzle was created not for entertainment but for education!
2. From Wood to Cardboard
The initial jigsaw puzzles, such as those crafted by John Spilsbury, were wooden puzzles. Each piece was carved from a single piece of wood, making the puzzle maker’s job intricate and artistic. However, with the advent of the 20th century, cardboard puzzles gained popularity. They were cheaper and easier to manufacture, especially during challenging economic times like the Great Depression.
3. Pushing the Limits
From small puzzles designed for toddlers to ones with thousands of puzzle pieces, jigsaw puzzles come in all shapes and sizes. During the 20th century, as more adults began to indulge in puzzle-solving, the challenges increased. Puzzle enthusiasts sought more intricate and complex designs, leading to an explosion in the variety of puzzles available.
4. The World’s Largest Jigsaw Puzzle
No list of jigsaw puzzle facts would be complete without recognizing the world’s largest jigsaw puzzle. In the vibrant city of Dubai, where contemporary and traditional elements coexist amidst breathtaking architecture, a remarkable event unfolded in 2018. Dubai, renowned for its penchant for breaking records and its passion for the extraordinary, embarked on an awe-inspiring endeavor. They undertook the monumental task of constructing the world’s largest jigsaw puzzle!
This colossal jigsaw puzzle represented no small undertaking. It spanned an extensive area, immediately capturing the attention of onlookers with its vivid colors and intricate intricacies. The final image depicted none other than the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the visionary founding father of the United Arab Emirates. It stood as a symbol of the unity and prosperity he had ushered into the nation.
Dubai’s accomplishment received official recognition from the Guinness World Records, decisively surpassing the previous record. This remarkable puzzle consisted of a staggering 12,000 pieces, with each component meticulously crafted and assembled to form a breathtaking masterpiece. To put this achievement into perspective, a 12,000-piece puzzle is the heavyweight champion of the jigsaw puzzle world—a category all its own, particularly when most enthusiasts are accustomed to grappling with 2,000-piece challenges.
5. The Speediest Puzzler
While the world of jigsaw puzzles often conjures images of patience and prolonged focus, there are some puzzlers who turn the tables with their incredible speed. One such individual is Tammy McLeod from the USA. On 26 December 2020, in Burbank, California, Tammy set a breathtaking record by completing the Guinness World Record Hasbro puzzle in a mere 9 minutes 58.32 seconds!
But what drives someone to such feats of rapid puzzle completion? For Tammy, the motivation stemmed from her own prowess in the domain of speed jigsaw puzzling. Having clinched victories in various speed jigsaw puzzle competitions, she was fueled by the ambition to test her skills against a world record. And sure enough, with determination and swiftness, she achieved just that, cementing her position as one of the world’s fastest puzzlers.
6. The Making of Jigsaw Puzzles
While many of us have enjoyed the satisfaction of placing that final piece into a jigsaw puzzle, few might be aware of the intricate process that goes into crafting these beloved pastimes. The journey from a mere idea to a boxed jigsaw puzzle is fascinating, showcasing a blend of art, design, and precision engineering.
Artwork Selection
The first step in the puzzle-making process involves choosing or commissioning an image. This can range from scenic landscapes, famous artworks, and photographs to custom designs. The selected artwork must be of high resolution to ensure clarity when enlarged.
Image Processing
Once the artwork is selected, it undergoes digital enhancement. Brightness, contrast, and color are adjusted, and the image is scaled to the desired puzzle size.
Puzzle Die Creation
The die is essentially the ‘mold’ that will cut the puzzle pieces. A typical die is made of sharp, thin strips of metal shaped into the jigsaw pattern. These are set into a wooden board. The design of this die determines the shape and fit of the puzzle pieces.
Printing
The enhanced image is then printed onto a special paper, which is subsequently adhered to the puzzle material, typically cardboard, but sometimes wood or other materials.
Cutting
This is where the magic happens. The printed sheet is fed into a press that has the puzzle die. When pressed, the sharp metal blades of the die cut through the sheet, creating individual puzzle pieces.
Quality Check
Once the puzzle is cut, it undergoes a quality check. This involves ensuring that all pieces fit well together and that the image is clear and vibrant.
Packaging
The confirmed puzzles are broken up, and the pieces are placed into bags. These bags are then boxed, often accompanied by a small print of the puzzle image, and are ready to be shipped to stores or directly to customers.
The process, though mechanized in many modern settings, retains an element of artistry. From the careful design of each unique piece shape to the selection and treatment of the images, the creation of jigsaw puzzles is a craft in its own right.
Jigsaw puzzles are more than just pastimes; they’re a blend of history, art, challenge, and craftsmanship. From world records and speedy puzzle solvers to the intricate process behind each piece, these puzzles represent human creativity and our drive to find patterns and connections. Whether you puzzle for relaxation, competition, or admiration of the art, the world of jigsaws holds a rich tapestry waiting to be explored. As you navigate your next puzzle challenge, cherish the history and dedication that crafted it. Here’s to the timeless magic of piecing it all together!
Join the Springbok Legacy Today!
Born in 1963 and still rocking the puzzle world, Springbok is the real deal. With unmatched quality, unique designs, and a strong eco-friendly vibe, they’re the gold standard of jigsaws. Dive into a world of precision and art with each piece. Grab a Springbok puzzle and become part of the legacy!
