The challenge of finding edge pieces in a jigsaw puzzle
One of the trickiest parts of completing a jigsaw puzzle is finding all the edge pieces. Without the edges, it’s impossible to establish the framework for the rest of the puzzle. However, sometimes it can feel like an endless search to find all the edge pieces. But fear not! There are some techniques you can use to make this process a bit easier.
Look for straight edges
This may seem obvious, but it’s an important first step. Look for pieces with at least one straight edge. These are more likely to be edge pieces than ones with all curved edges. Separate out these pieces and start creating the puzzle framework.
Sort by color
Another helpful technique is to sort the pieces by color. Most jigsaw puzzles have a few predominant colors, and by grouping those pieces together, you can more easily spot the edge pieces in that color. Additionally, some puzzles may have different shades of a color, so sorting them into groups can help you identify which pieces go where.
Check the box image
Often, the box the puzzle comes in will have an image of the completed puzzle. Use this as a guide to help you identify the edge pieces. This is especially helpful for puzzles with intricate designs. You can use the image to identify where certain colors meet, and then use that information to find the corresponding edge pieces.
Look for connector pieces
Connector pieces are edge pieces that have a tab or a connector piece that fits into the adjacent piece. These pieces can be especially tricky to find because they often look like they could be any normal puzzle piece. However, once you identify one or two, you can use that as a starting point to work your way around the edge.
Start with the corners
Lastly, focus on finding the corner pieces first. These are often the most distinctive edge pieces and can help you establish the size and shape of the puzzle grid. Once you find the corners, you can work your way along the edges in either direction to complete the framework of the puzzle.
