Jigsaw Puzzle Size

When you ask about the jigsaw puzzle size do you mean how many pieces or what is the measurement of the jigsaw puzzle? This is SO common.....kinda like waiting for the turkey to 'unthaw' ;) 

Fear not though....there is no golden rule around this. It just needs further clarification is all. And both issues are required when you are looking at the size of your new jigsaw puzzle.

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So just to be clear this is how we will discuss the 'jigsaw-puzzle-size' issue here;

Pieces

  • number of pieces per jigsaw puzzle
  • size of the pieces in the puzzle

Measurement

  • total size in inches or cm
  • thickness 
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Jigsaw Puzzle Size in Pieces

1. The number of pieces is sometimes associated with the ‘size’ of the jigsaw puzzle. For example; the question is often asked, “What size is it?”  and the answer may be, “it is 1000 pieces”.

The number of pieces may also determine the physical size of the puzzle. Ideally a 2000 piece puzzle is going to measure larger than 1000 pieces and a 3000 piece will be larger than a 2000 piece.

2. But those are not hard stone-cold facts because the actual physical size of the puzzle is going to depend on the size of each jigsaw puzzle piece.  I’ve got a World’s Smallest Jigsaw Puzzle with 1000 pieces and the total physical size is smaller than a regular 1000 piece by measurement.....but then look at the size of the pieces....

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 Educa 1000 piece Leonardo Da Vinci Miniature Mona Lisa Puzzle

Here you can see a 'standard' puzzle piece beside the contents of the 1000 Miniature Mona Lisa jigsaw puzzle.

MasterPieces Route 66 World's Smallest Tin Jigsaw Puzzle, 4-Inch x 8-Inch, 1000-Piece

Here is a closeup sample of the mini or World's smallest jigsaw puzzle pieces compared to a basic piece. Although I must mention that some of the 'random' cut jigsaw puzzle pieces can be quite tiny!

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jigsaw-puzzle-sizeBuffalo Vivid Collection Butterflies
jigsaw-puzzle-sizeCobble Hill Farm Jigsaw Puzzle

Here is a general guide (stated loosely) for children but it is not limited to these numbers because some children develop differently than others. Of course that does not mean as an adult you cannot do these.

Child                  Number of Pieces

Ages 2 - 3          4 to 12 Pieces

Ages 3 - 5          12 to 50 Pieces

Ages 5 - 6          50 to 100 Pieces

Ages 6 - 7          100 to 200 Pieces

Ages 7 - 8          200 Pieces

Ages 8 - 10        300 Pieces

Ages 12+           500+ Pieces

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The Jigsaw Puzzle Size in Measurement

Families most often do 500 pieces and Adults most often do 1000 pieces. There seems to be an ongoing ‘World’s Largest’ competition and almost every year a different company is producing a ‘new’ jigsaw puzzle with more ‘number of pieces’ and larger in physical measurements.

The first thing I do before I even open the box is look for the jigsaw puzzle size in measurements. Then I locate the correct size of board I am going to use. It's good to keep a supply of different sizes in your accessories.   

As seen in the photos above, the number of pieces does not always determine the actual measurements of the assembled jigsaw puzzle.

Take at look at this series of images. It is the M.C. Escher mini-wooden 100 pieces jigsaw puzzle. The pieces are tiny and I used the tweezers to assist with assembly. The size is approximately 2" x 3" in measurements. 

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Basically you could say the only way to determine the 'measurements' is to read what the final individual puzzle is manufactured to be once assembled.

Currently the 'World's Largest' (2016) is the Memorable Disney Moments by Ravensburger at 40,320 pieces and measures 6.80 m by 1.92 m  OR 22 ft 3.72 in by 6 ft 3.59 in. It's divided into 10 bags with each showing one photo from a Disney classic movie.

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Personally, my largest is the Ravensburger New York City Window at 32000 pieces in 8 bags.

It measures 544 x 192 cm (214 x 76 in.). I have yet to start this one :) 

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So to sum it up, just be mindful when you are choosing your jigsaw puzzle size. The number of pieces does not always give a clear measurement of the physical puzzle image ~ look carefully.

There's More To Jigsaw Puzzles Than Pieces Book by Linda Richard. A compilation of 50+ jigsaw puzzle related topics, tips and tricks written in conversational format for easy, light reading.There's More To Jigsaw Puzzles Than Pieces Book by Linda Richard. A compilation of 50+ jigsaw puzzle related topics, tips and tricks written in conversational format for easy, light reading. Click Here
AMAZON-STORE-Banner

We have collected a massive list of jigsaw puzzles in numerous categories on our Amazon Store link. It's a quick way to browse most current puzzles and/or specific seasons, accessories and themes. Makes for a terrific one-stop jigsaw puzzle gift giving shopping centre. CLICK HERE

You may like these different sizes of jigsaw puzzles.

About Jigsaw Puzzles: Unveiling the Benefits of Doing Jigsaw Puzzles

A Therapeutic Journey

Jigsaw puzzles have long captivated individuals of all ages, offering not only a fun pastime but also a myriad of benefits for mental well-being. From enhancing cognitive skills to promoting relaxation, the act of piecing together puzzles goes beyond entertainment. In this article, we explore the remarkable benefits of engaging in jigsaw puzzles, shedding light on the positive effects they have on our minds and bodies.

  1. Cognitive Stimulation: Jigsaw puzzles serve as a workout for the brain, stimulating cognitive functions such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and spatial reasoning. As we examine puzzle pieces, analyze patterns, and make connections, our brains become engaged in a captivating mental exercise.
  2. Improved Memory: Engaging in jigsaw puzzles helps enhance short-term memory and reinforce long-term memory. Remembering shapes, colors, and patterns, and recalling their positions throughout the puzzle aids in memory retention and retrieval.
  3. Focus and Concentration: Solving jigsaw puzzles requires sustained focus and concentration. By immersing ourselves in the task at hand, we train our minds to block out distractions, strengthen our attention span, and improve our ability to stay focused on a specific goal.
  4. Stress Relief: Puzzling acts as a therapeutic escape from the stresses of everyday life. As we immerse ourselves in the puzzle-solving process, our minds become engrossed, creating a sense of mindfulness and providing a temporary respite from worries and anxieties.
  5. Boost in Dopamine Levels: Completing a puzzle triggers the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This surge in dopamine creates a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction, reinforcing the positive feelings associated with puzzle solving.
  6. Enhanced Fine Motor Skills: Manipulating puzzle pieces and fitting them together requires precise hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. Regularly engaging in puzzles can help improve dexterity, agility, and the coordination between our hands and eyes.
  7. Social Interaction: Puzzling can be a social activity that fosters connection and collaboration. Solving puzzles with family or friends encourages communication, teamwork, and shared accomplishment, enhancing social bonds and creating lasting memories.
  8. Patience and Perseverance: Completing a complex puzzle requires patience and perseverance. As we encounter challenges and setbacks, we learn to persist, develop problem-solving strategies, and build resilience—a valuable skillset that extends beyond puzzle-solving.
  9. Mental Relaxation and Mindfulness: The meditative nature of jigsaw puzzles can induce a state of relaxation, promoting mindfulness and reducing stress levels. The repetitive and calming motions of sorting and connecting pieces can have a soothing effect on the mind, allowing for a tranquil escape from daily pressures.
  10. Sense of Achievement: The satisfaction of placing that final puzzle piece and witnessing the complete image provides a profound sense of achievement. This sense of accomplishment boosts self-esteem, instills a sense of pride, and fosters a positive mindset.

By embracing the benefits of jigsaw puzzles, we unlock not only an enjoyable hobby but also a path to mental well-being. Whether you're seeking cognitive stimulation, stress relief, or a moment of mindfulness, engaging in puzzles can enrich your life and provide a therapeutic journey that transcends the puzzle board. So gather your puzzles, sharpen your focus, and embark on this fulfilling adventure of piecing together fragments to create something beautiful and whole.

(ChatGPT, personal communication, June 20, 2023)