What to Do with a 500 Piece Puzzle: Display or Frame?
By Badge Bomb | buttons, pins, stickers + gifts by your favorite | Published: 2026-10-24
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to preserve and show off your finished 500 piece puzzle. This guide covers gluing, framing, and other display options.
Quick answer
You can either frame the puzzle as wall art or display it temporarily on a board or table. The best choice depends on whether you want permanent decor or the option to redo the puzzle later.
Why the approach matters
A finished 500 piece puzzle is a satisfying achievement, but the pieces can shift or separate if you try to move them without preparation. Choosing the right method—gluing, framing, or temporary display—keeps your work intact and lets you enjoy it longer.
The Grow Your Own 500 Piece Puzzle from Badge Bomb features a garden-themed illustration that looks great on a wall or coffee table. Its 18 x 24 inch finished size fits standard frames, making it a good candidate for framing.
When not to frame
If you like to redo puzzles or trade them with friends, skip the glue and frame. Instead, slide the puzzle onto a large piece of foam board or cardboard and cover it with a sheet of paper or plastic. This keeps the puzzle intact for later reassembly without permanent commitment.
How to display or frame your puzzle
- 1. Prepare the surface: Slide a large piece of wax paper or parchment under the puzzle while it is still on the table or board. This prevents glue from sticking to the surface underneath. Common mistake: Skipping this step can ruin your table or board. Always use a protective layer.
- 2. Apply puzzle glue: Pour puzzle glue (or a thin layer of white craft glue mixed with water) over the front of the puzzle. Use a flat card or spatula to spread it evenly into all cracks. Let it dry completely for at least 2 hours. Checkpoint: Too much glue can warp the puzzle. Apply a thin, even coat and wipe off excess immediately.
- 3. Flip and glue the back (optional): For extra stability, carefully flip the glued puzzle onto a clean surface and apply a thin layer of glue to the back. Let dry overnight. Common mistake: Flipping too early can break the puzzle. Wait until the front glue is fully dry.
- 4. Frame or mount: Place the dried puzzle into a standard 18 x 24 inch frame (with or without a mat). If framing is not desired, mount the puzzle on foam board using double-sided tape and display it on an easel or shelf. Checkpoint: Measure your puzzle before buying a frame. The Grow Your Own puzzle fits a standard 18 x 24 frame, but not all puzzles are standard sizes.
- 5. Temporary display without glue: Slide the puzzle onto a large piece of foam board or cardboard. Cover with a sheet of glass or clear acrylic to protect the surface without permanent adhesive. Common mistake: Without a cover, pieces can shift or get dusty. Always use a flat protective layer.
Product spotlight
- Grow Your Own 500 Piece Puzzle: The Grow Your Own 500 Piece Puzzle is made from 100% recycled gray board and printed with vegetable-based inks. It includes a printed poster of the puzzle art. The included poster can serve as a reference while assembling and as a backup display piece if you decide not to frame the puzzle itself.
Grow Your Own 500 Piece Puzzle
