My 2.5 year old son really likes jigsaw puzzles. I was thinking maybe I can make some for him myself. Would it work if I just print out a picture on good quality paper, glue it on cardboard and cut it out with scissors?
I would probably make 12 to 24 pieces.
Have you made jigsaw puzzles for kids yourself? Do you have any tips?
Thanks for all the suggestions. My first couple trials were not very successful. The biggest issue is cutting the pieces nicely, and it is hard to cut cardboard with scissors into puzzle pieces.
I am thinking of just cutting them into irregular pieces (not necessarily jigsaw-type pieces) or purchase a utility knife.
I also found this site which gave me some ideas:
http://www.activityvillage.co.uk/kids_jigsaws_to_print.htm
Here's a template. I think you could maybe laminate it?
http://www.thetoymaker.com/Toypages/39JigsawPuzzles/39Jig...
Here's a cute video on how to do it:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AmRBW17Do48
I've never made any, but for the durability of them I would think its easier and maybe a little bit more money but you can buy 24 piece character puzzles for 3.99 in the stores. Last year around this time I even got some 2 for $5.
If you go to Walmart.com you can upload a picture and they will make it into a puzzle, you can even get it in a little tin with the picture printed on it for storage. My boys have some of these from special visits with Grandpa and other special memories.
They sell blank puzzles that you can buy. Then you could glue on the picture that you want and then use a blade to cut around the pieces. I think that would work well. Look at craft stores for the blank puzzles
You could also try foam core (sp?) instead of card board.
Also, try doing an internet search for puzzle templates.
Have fun!!!
I have tried this without putting much thought or effort into it, and the problem I had was that the pieces didn't fit together tightly enough... you know, every piece has to really lock into all the pieces next to it. I think maybe a template would help with that, though? Foam core seems like a good idea, but I think you would want to cut it with an x-acto knife instead of scissors. Good luck, and please let us know what works best!!
