Jigsaw Puzzles from
Puzzles on Parade
Jigsaw Puzzle Types
Jigsaw puzzles
come in many shapes and sizes. We have put this page together
to try and give you an idea of what is available and maybe help
to guide you towards what suits you, and your next challenge.
Number of Pieces
Jigsaw puzzles tend to be graded by
the number of pieces. Most manufacturers offer a similar range
of sizes, going up in 500s. The most common of these sizes are
500, 1000, 1500 and 2000. However, there are many other different
sizes so there should always be one to suite your level of ability
and requirements. An "odd" size range is the 636 range
from Gibsons, which creates a finished jigsaw puzzle similar
in width to the normal 1,000 piece examples, but not as tall.
Puzzles on Parade even sell an 18,000 piece monster - if you
fancy the challenge.
Shapes
The vast majority of jigsaw puzzles
are rectangular with straight edges. However, some of those rectangular
puzzles have no edge, making it harder to start. Circular jigsaw
puzzles are also available for those of you looking for
something a little different.
Puzzle Ball
These are a relatively new innovation
but an increasingly popular range. Mostly globe type pictures
but also objects such as footballs. Ravensurger even have a commemorative
set of World Cup footballs. With shaped pieces made from durable
plastic, this type of puzzle is very different to assemble, especially
the final pieces when the object is "locked". Magnet
systems are available which allow the completed article to be
hung - and they can look quite attractive to keep. Why not use
these as educational displays for your children, for example
the Junior World Map and The Planets. These are fun to assemble,
and then great to keep.
3D
True 3D puzzles are available, where
you can create full models, such as buildings. Popular subjects
are the Eiffel Tower and the Taj Mahal. These, in a sense merge
the jigsaw puzzle world with the world of models.
Wasgij
Here is another range of jigsaw puzzles,
which are growing in popularity. There are two types and as the
name suggests wasgij is jigsaw backwards these are
not quite what they seem to be. For example the picture on the
box may be a reference to what is opposite the picture you are
about to assemble with your jigsaw puzzle pieces. So, for example,
if the picture is of the inside of a shop window, you will be
creating the high street scene, which that window looks onto.
These types of jigsaw puzzle are known as Original Wasgij. The
other type is Destiny Wasgij and these will have, for example,
a picture of a school classroom on the box, but the picture you
will actually be completing is of the school reunion for that
class. These types of jigsaw puzzle are great fun, but maybe
best suited for those with a bit of puzzling experience and a
lot of patience.
Double Sided
These types of jigsaw puzzles have pictures
on both sides. Yet another challenge for you. Obviously you have
to work out a "third dimension" for each piece
which way round it goes. But of course you do have the bonus
of getting two jigsaw puzzles for the price of one.
Art Fraud
This range of jigsaw puzzles takes for
its subject a famous painting with a spot the difference twist.
A classical picture on the box is 100% original but the differences
in the jigsaw puzzle are a mystery and will only be revealed
as the pieces are assembled.
Impossipuzzle
If you want a challenge then these are
definitely for you. As the name suggests, they are not easy.
The "impossi" part of the name comes from the subject.
Common subjects are things like Smarties, or coloured paper clips,
or even harder, baked beans (which are all the same colour of
course). This must be only one step away from doing a jigsaw
puzzle without a picture at all
Floor Puzzles
These are great for kids to do. Usually
consisting of a small number of large and brightly coloured pieces
these jigsaw puzzles are assembled on the floor, which is normally
where kids spend most of their time. The completed jigsaw puzzle
will then withstand a degree of walking upon. The pieces are
designed to be easy to handle for little hands. A fun way of
learning for the very young puzzlers.
Travel Jigsaw Puzzles
These are perfect for taking away with
you. A small box presents no problems for packing it can
be sneaked in anywhere. They are also an ideal range of jigsaw
puzzles for those who do not have much space for doing jigsaw
puzzles (although, of course, a Puzzle Board or Jig Roll will
solve this). Small in area, these are designed to be done on
the journey helping to pass the time and keep the kids
quiet, perhaps. Ideal for whiling away the hours in the car,
train or plane.
Mini puzzle balls are also a good travel
companion. Here is your way to buy a little peace from the kids
in the back seat.
Glow In The Dark
These are simply as the name suggests.
Once your jigsaw puzzle is put together it can be hung on the
wall, where it will glow in the dark. A great idea for kids to
do - and then something fun to hang on the wall. Not sure if
you can do one of these puzzles in the dark but it might
be fun to try.
Working Clock
Create your jigsaw puzzle, and then
add the working clock face to create a mini grandfather clock.
Fun to do - then great to keep.
Panoramic
These are an unusual shape for jigsaw
puzzles. Usually depicting a wide scene, the dimensions of these
jigsaw puzzles are wide but not tall. Ideal for displaying, because
they are so unusual. Use puzzle conserver (glue) to be able to
hang them on the wall.
Large Piece
These jigsaw puzzles have larger pieces
(approximately twice as large) so a 500-piece puzzle would be
the same width as a normal 1,000-piece jigsaw. This range is
designed for people with "hand problems" such as arthritis.
They can have great therapeutic value for people with these types
of ailments.
Well I hope that has given you an insight
into the wide range of different jigsaw puzzles available. At
Puzzles on Parade we try to stock as many different types as
possible, so why not browse through our site and see if you can
find the type that best suits your requirements.
