Have fun making picture puzzles and more fun playing with them over and over again. Make several puzzles, some to keep and others to give as gifts. Start with a photograph, a drawing, or a favorite page from a coloring book, then cut it up to make a puzzle.
Older children can help younger ones make puzzles; just be sure to keep things simple for toddlers.
Find a picture that will make a fun and interesting puzzle. It could be a family photograph, a page from a coloring book, or a drawing of your own. Keep in mind that a picture that has a few clearly defined areas will make an easier puzzle while one with a consistent look all over will be more difficult.
It's best if there are two copies of the puzzle picture, one for the puzzle and another for reference. The picture for the puzzle should fit on a standard sheet of computer paper, but could be smaller, too. If you have a copy machine or other means of copying pictures, make a copy that's about one-fourth the size of the puzzle picture. This copy can be used as a guide when working the puzzle, and it can be stored with the puzzle pieces in a plastic bag.
Glue the puzzle picture to a piece of cardstock or cardboard, and trim as needed. You could also print or copy the picture directly onto cardstock.
Draw a grid of equal-size squares or rectangles on the back of the puzzle. Keep the pieces large for younger children. For a more interesting puzzle, make the grid using wavy lines.
Cut the puzzles pieces following the grid lines.
Mix up the puzzle pieces, then try to put the picture back together again. Look at the reference picture for clues. Also, it is easier to work puzzles on a felt square—the pieces won't slide around as much.
Store the puzzle in a plastic bag with the reference picture.
That's it! Your puzzle is done!