Creative Puzzle Piece Crafts: 7 DIY Art Projects from Old Puzzles
Do you have a box of old or incomplete jigsaw puzzles collecting dust? Don't throw them out just yet! Stray puzzle pieces can be repurposed into fun, affordable, and creative DIY projects for the whole family. Whether you're looking for a rainy-day activity, a gift idea, or a seasonal craft, puzzle art is a clever way to turn unused pieces into something new.
This guide shares some of our favorite puzzle piece craft ideas—from holiday ornaments and wall art to jewelry and coasters. These easy projects are great for kids, adults, and crafters of all skill levels.
Puzzle Animals
Puzzle pieces can be transformed into cute animals and bugs with just a few art supplies. Arrange pieces into shapes like caterpillars, butterflies, or farm animals. Add googly eyes or draw on features with markers or paint. You can even cut pieces to create shapes like tails or ears. These are perfect for preschool activities or playful room décor!
Inspiration tip: Browse our animal jigsaw puzzles for more nature-themed ideas.
Puzzle Piece Ornaments
Create holiday ornaments using red, green, and white puzzle pieces—or paint them in your favorite seasonal colors. Cut a cardboard base into a shape (tree, star, or wreath), glue on the pieces, and add ribbon or twine to hang. These handmade ornaments make heartfelt keepsakes and gifts. Pair your craft session with one of our Christmas jigsaw puzzles to make it even more festive.
Puzzle Piece Wall Art
Turn your old puzzles into custom art! Start with a blank canvas or sturdy card stock.
3 easy steps:- Sketch your design or outline.
- Glue puzzle pieces along the lines or fill in the shapes.
- Use painted pieces to create backgrounds like skies, grass, or water.
This project is quick, creative, and perfect for gift-giving or decorating your home office.
Puzzle Piece Coasters
Need a practical craft? Try making puzzle piece coasters. Glue mismatched puzzle pieces into a square, then attach the shape to a cork backing or old coaster. Seal with glue and let dry. These make thoughtful DIY gifts or colorful conversation starters.
Puzzle Jewelry
Looking for a fun wearable craft? Use puzzle pieces to make one-of-a-kind earrings, necklaces, or pins. Paint them in bold colors or metallics, glue them on embellishments, and attach them to jewelry findings. Puzzle jewelry also makes a thoughtful gift for puzzle lover.
Puzzle Picture Frames
Decorate plain wooden or popsicle stick frames with puzzle pieces for a unique photo display. Choose complementary colors or paint the pieces to match your décor. Glue them around the frame's edges, let dry, and you have a crafty way to display your favorite moments.
Puzzle Wreaths
Make a puzzle wreath for your front door to decorate for any holiday or season. Use cardboard as a base, glue the pieces in a circular pattern, and finish with a ribbon or bow. Use green and red for Christmas, pastels for spring, or orange and brown for fall. You can even make mini wreaths as ornaments or wall hangings.
Conclusion
You can create beautiful, functional, and festive crafts for any season with just a few supplies and a handful of leftover puzzle pieces. Whether crafting with kids, decorating for the holidays, or just looking to reuse an old puzzle, these projects are fun, affordable, and easy to personalize.
Need a few new puzzles before your next craft day? Browse our full selection of jigsaw puzzles, brain teasers, and holiday-themed puzzles to get inspired for your next DIY masterpiece.
