Did you know that Jigsaw Puzzles Were A Popular Past Time On The Beach?

Today marks the unofficial first day of summer, Memorial Day Weekend!  To celebrate, I thought I’d treat all of you to a little jigsaw puzzle history, especially since it ties so wonderfully with beach days. Here at The Missing Piece Puzzle Company, we’re nestled in sunny Southern New Jersey, just a hop, skip, and a jump from the beach. And guess what? We absolutely adore the history of the jigsaw puzzle. So, grab your beach towel, your sunscreen, and let’s dive into the past!

A Beachy Beginning: The Jigsaw Puzzle's History

Stress Relief on the Sand

Did you know that the jigsaw puzzle became a popular beach activity during the Great Depression? It’s true! During this challenging time, families needed a way to lift their spirits, and what better way than piecing together a puzzle? It was the perfect stress reliever, offering both a mental challenge and a fun way to spend time together.

From Aristocrats to the Average Joe

The story of jigsaw puzzles actually begins way back in the 18th century. Originally, they weren’t the cardboard creations we know today. Instead, they were wooden maps cut into pieces, used as educational tools for the children of aristocrats. These early puzzles were quite the luxury item—unaffordable and impractical for most people.

It wasn’t until the Great Depression that jigsaw puzzles became accessible to everyone. As families looked for inexpensive ways to entertain themselves, the mass production of die-cut cardboard puzzles made them a staple in households across the country. And yes, this newfound affordability meant that jigsaw puzzles made their way to the beach, where families could enjoy them in the fresh air and sunshine.

The Evolution of Jigsaw Puzzles

From Wood to Cardboard

Thanks to advancements in manufacturing, jigsaw puzzle makers began mass-producing die-cut puzzles from cardboard, making them affordable for nearly everyone. This innovation during the Great Depression renewed the puzzle’s popularity and cemented it as a beloved pastime.

Today, jigsaw puzzles have come a long way from their humble beginnings. They’re available in countless designs and difficulty levels, with something for everyone—from classic landscapes to custom-made creations (which we happen to specialize in!).

Tips for Enjoying Puzzles This Summer

Now that we've shared a bit of history, let's talk about how you can make the most of your puzzling this summer. Here are some fun and practical tips for enjoying your puzzles in the sunny season:

Take Your Puzzle Outside

Why stay indoors when the weather is so beautiful? Set up a table on your patio, deck, or even at the beach. The natural light will make the colors of your puzzle pop, and you'll get to enjoy the great outdoors while engaging in your favorite hobby. Just be sure to keep an eye on the wind—it can be a bit tricky with those tiny pieces!

Puzzle Picnics

Combine your love of picnics and puzzles! Pack a portable puzzle mat (which you can roll up and transport easily) along with your favorite snacks and drinks. Head to your local park or beach, spread out your picnic blanket, and enjoy a delightful day of puzzling and munching. It’s a great way to relax and soak up some sun.

Get Creative with Themes

Summer is all about fun and vibrancy, so why not choose puzzles that reflect the season? Look for puzzles with beach scenes, tropical landscapes, or festive summer events. These themes can bring an extra layer of joy to your puzzling experience and get you in the summer spirit.

Host a Puzzle Party

Invite friends and family over for a puzzle party. Set up multiple tables with different puzzles and let everyone work together. It's a fantastic way to socialize and enjoy each other’s company while also challenging your minds. Add some summer tunes and refreshing drinks to keep the atmosphere lively and fun.

Share Your Puzzle Joy

At The Missing Piece Puzzle Company, we love seeing how our puzzles bring joy to your lives. Whether you’re a solo puzzler or enjoy tackling challenges with friends and family, we encourage you to share your experiences with us. Post your photos on social media with the hashtag #puzzleonpuzzlers and tag us so we can see your beautiful creations.

If you’re looking for a new puzzle to try, don’t forget to check out our latest collection. We offer a wide range of designs, including custom puzzles that make perfect gifts or personal keepsakes.

Wrapping Up

As we celebrate the first day of summer, let’s also celebrate the timeless joy of jigsaw puzzles. They’ve been a source of entertainment and relaxation for centuries, evolving from aristocratic study tools to beloved family pastimes. This summer, take your puzzles outdoors, get creative with themes, and maybe even host a puzzle party. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the process!

Thank you for being a part of our puzzle-loving community. We appreciate each and every one of you and look forward to seeing your summer puzzle adventures.

Happy Summer and Happy Puzzling!

Cheers,
Donna Brown, Puzzle Queen
The Missing Piece Puzzle Company
www.themissingpiecepuzzle.com