Saving a Jigsaw Puzzle -- Disney, of course!

[Svenson]

While my mom was visiting recently, we finally finished our Disney Photomosaic jigsaw puzzle that we have had for three years. (1,000 pieces -- eek !) It's a picture of Mickey Mouse made from a mosaic of hundreds of small pictures from various Disney films.

Anyway, after all that work, we really want to save the puzzle and hang it in our "playroom" (Disney-themed playroom, of course). Has anyone here every "saved" a jigsaw puzzle for hanging? At Michael's I found "Puzzle Saver" made by Mod Podge. I have never done this before and I really am nervous about trying a new product on such a "valuable" item. (Time value, not money value )

Anybody with any experience -- good or bad -- with "Puzzle Saver" or any other jigsaw saving products? Please send me some advice! Thanks for your help!!

 

[Bildmouse]

I've done that several times. Make sure you put newspaper or poster board under and past the edges of your puzzle before you spread the glue stuff on it. I use a sponge type brush that you can get in your craft store. There are usually several in a package and they are very inexpensive. Be sure you get between the pieces and have all your strokes go in the same direction. Once you have the entire puzzle covered just go over it being sure that all the lines go the same way. We have several glued but I need to pick up frames so we can get them hung. I've got the same Mickey but my DH and DD put it together.

 

[FantasticDisFamily]

I've used the puzzle saver decoupage sort of stuff before and it is fine. I also "glued" it (I think I used the same stuff) to a mounting board and when it was all dry carefully cut the extra board away with a craft knife. I then took a large enough frame, covered the backing board with an appropriate colored felt, and framed the whole thing with the glass in place. The particular puzzle I have in my office at work is an unusual one in the shape of the state of Michigan and has lots of icons all over. Have had it hanging, tucked behind cases, etc at various points for about 5 years now and no damage or disintegration of the puzzle (falling pieces, etc) has occurred.

Deb

 

[Svenson]

I knew I could find someone here who has done this! Thanks to both of you for your info.

Another question, if anyone knows the answer. Is Mod Podge Puzzle Saver the same as plain old Mod Podge, just packaged with a foam brush to make it more expensive? The Puzzle Saver only comes in a 2 ounce bottle, which looks like not nearly enough to coat my 27"x20" puzzle. The plain Mod Podge comes in much larger and more economical containers. Anyone know the difference between the two?

Also, while I'm at it . . . any opinions on whether "gloss" finish or "matte" finish looks better on jigsaw puzzles?

Thanks again!