The History of the Jigsaw Puzzle: Everything You’ve Ever Wondered

Puzzling has really taken off over the last decade - and it’s not just grandparents getting in on the fun anymore! Scroll through social media, and you’ll spot people of all ages sharing their puzzling progress. Even Gen Z are jumping in, discovering how calming and satisfying it is to piece a puzzle together (especially with those addictive puzzle pick-up videos). Whether it’s a way to chill out after a hectic day, spend quality time with family, or simply enjoy a good challenge, puzzles have become a favourite for relaxing and mindfulness. But here’s a fun thought… do we all actually know where puzzling got started?

What exactly is a jigsaw puzzle?

You might be surprised, but not everyone knows what a jigsaw puzzle really is! Simply put, it’s a set of pieces with unique shapes that slot perfectly together to reveal a full picture once you’ve finished. Traditionally, these pieces are made from cardboard or wood, though nowadays, some puzzles come in metal or plastic too. And the sizes? They’re wild - from tiny little puzzles with just 25 pieces, all the way up to the world’s biggest puzzle, which has a whopping 52,110 pieces! I mean seriously... who has the time for that?!

Who invented the jigsaw puzzle?

So, where did this brilliant pastime begin? It all started back in 1767 with a man called John Spilsbury. He created the first jigsaw puzzle - or as it was then called, a “dissection.” He glued a map onto wood and hand-cut each piece, turning geography lessons into something way more hands-on and fun.

Why is it called a jigsaw puzzle?

The name comes from the tool used to cut the pieces - the “jigsaw” saw. This saw was perfect for making the curved and quirky shapes that puzzle pieces have, which is why the designs are so intricate and satisfying to piece together.

How have jigsaw puzzles changed over time?

Jigsaw puzzles aren’t just rectangles anymore. These days, you can find all sorts of shapes - circular puzzles, tricky 3D ones, and more. Technology has made puzzling more creative and exciting than ever, and lots of puzzles are now made with eco-friendly materials like recycled cardboard and sustainable wood. So you can enjoy your favourite hobby and feel good about the planet too. Basically, puzzling has come a long way and it’s only getting better!