How To Make A Puzzle Mat: Easy DIY

Nothing perks up a puzzle lover than a trusty puzzle mat. You don't want to risk losing a day's work of progress just because you need to move around right? So before you buy a mat to protect your puzzle, this article will teach you how to make a puzzle mat with a few DIY steps.

Easy DIY Guide: Making A Puzzle Mat

Think of your puzzle mat as a work station—a portable work station that handles every gem of progress in your puzzle. You can design different mats for your puzzles, depending on preference and available space.

How To Make A DIY Puzzle Mat Roll-Up

Roll up puzzle mats are handy for people with small spaces. If you also like traveling with your puzzles, these mats make it easier.

Things you need:

1. Craft felt fabric
2. Cardboard tube
3. Ribbons or Fabric
4. Hook and loop straps
5. Pins
6. Scissors
7. Fabric glue

Step 1 - Line up the fabrics with the right side facing inwards. The wrong side should be positioned outwards.

Step 2 - Cut your craft felt and fabric to the same size.

Step 3 - After trimming, leave an opening and make sure to mark the sides using fabric tape.

Step 4 - Turn the insides out and seal the opening with some fabric glue.

Step 5 - Cut your cardboard tube so that it matches the length of your finished mat.

Step 6 - Add some ribbons on the side so you can tie up your mat after rolling.

Step 7 - When rolling your puzzle mat, do it with care and caution, and secure it with the ribbons.

How To Make A Framed Puzzle Mat

Not everyone wants a roll-up puzzle mat. Some prefer it in more stable surfaces that you can carry around with you. Now that you know how to make a puzzle mat you can roll-up, let's make another type.

Things you need:

1. A dry erase board with a wooden frame
2. Handles
3. Glue
4. Acrylic paint
5. Foam sheet
6. Knife for cutting
7. Washi tape

Step 1 - Paint the dry erase board with two coats of white acrylic paint (or any color you choose).

Step 2 - Drill small holes at the end of each frame, and attach your handles. These handles will make it easy for you to transport them from one place to the next. 

Step 3 - Make an extra working mat using a foam board, and cut it to your desired size.

Step 4 - Cover the edges of your board with washi tape.

Step 5 - Start creating your puzzle on your work station and take them by the handle to move or store them.

Conclusion

Puzzles are a great way to exercise your mental faculties, especially now that you have a lot of free time to spare. And with the additional skill of knowing how to make a puzzle mat, you can take them anywhere.