How to fix a broken puzzle piece

Fixing a broken piece of a puzzle really isn't as challenging as you may think. 

The task requires a few household tools, and perhaps a little patience, and will save your puzzle from being tossed out in the trash.  Please keep in mind that the success of this project may depend on the severity of your broken piece.

Next are a few ideas to repair a puzzle piece with a clean break.

Suggestions To Repair A Broken Piece With A Clean Break

It's true that all puzzles were not created equal.  Some puzzles peel easy while some shapes may break easy.  It all depends on the strength of the board, the cut of the piece, and the puzzlers handling of the puzzle pieces.  I'm sure that we can all agree that some puzzle pieces are definitely more fragile than others.

Here's a great way to repair a broken puzzle piece.

What Household Items Can You Use?

Repairing a puzzle piece that has a clean break requires a few household items that you might have laying around. 

Here are a few suggested items that will help you repair a broken puzzle piece:

• toothpicks                                
• wax paper
• heavy book
• Glue - Elmers white or Crazy Glue.  Your choice
• Sharpie Markers in multiple colors.
• Paper towel or clean rag
• tweezers

8 Steps How To Fix A Broken Puzzle Piece

Step 1:  In a well lit area, gather the items and the broken puzzle piece.  Line up the puzzle piece so that it will attach with the least damage showing, if any.  

Step 2:  Place a piece of wax paper in the area that you will be doing your repair.

Step 3:  Place a drop of glue onto a toothpick. Sparingly place the glue in the area of the break, adding glue on both pieces. Do not place too much glue on either piece. While holding one piece steady, reattach at the break.  Tweezers or a similar tool is suggested to help control the piece.  

Step 4:  Gently, place the two pieces together, making sure to line up the break as best as possible.  It's very important to wipe down any excess glue that might squeeze out by dabbing it with a paper towel.  

Step 5:  Place a piece of wax paper on top of the repaired piece.

Step 6:  Place a heavy book or object that is heavy on top.  Leave for about an hour.

Step 7:  Gently remove the book, wax paper, and repaired puzzle piece.  Peel (if necessary) the piece from the wax paper, taking your time so that the puzzle image isn't damaged.

Step 8:  Repair any areas of discolorization with Sharpie marker, colored pencil, or other method.  Try to match the color as closely as possible.  Easy does it is the rule for this step.

Pro Tip: 

If you are breaking down the puzzle and placing it into a box, please separate the piece so that it is protected in the box.  It might be handy to place it into a small zip lock bag with a post it note if you are gifting or donating the puzzle.

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I hope that this simple process helps to complete your puzzle.  As always, #puzzleonpuzzlers.

If you need some professional supplies, such as puzzle board, puzzle covering, etc., we've put together an inexpensive kit for you.  

The Missing Piece Puzzle Company