Some families put up the tree on the first weekend of December. Others start a Christmas jigsaw. Plenty of us do both.
A Christmas puzzle on the dining table becomes part of the season. People stop to place a piece on their way past. Visitors join in without being asked. By Christmas Eve, the picture is usually finished, or close to it.
What makes a good Christmas jigsaw
The best Christmas puzzles are full of detail. Snowy villages, decorated shopfronts, crowded markets and warm windows give you plenty to work with. Lots of small scenes within the bigger picture also mean several people can work on different corners at once.
Ravensburger's Christmas Eve, a 1500 piece puzzle, is a good example. It's a bigger build for the keen puzzlers in the house, and the kind of picture that rewards a few weeks at the table. Holiday Cottage, a 1000 piece puzzle, is a slightly easier option with the same cosy feel.
A white Christmas in summer
Most Christmas jigsaws show snow, which is a little odd when it's 35 degrees outside. We don't mind. There's something nice about working on a snowy scene with the fan going and a cold drink nearby.
Choosing the right size
- · 500 pieces suits a family with younger children or anyone short on table space.
- · 1000 pieces is the most popular size. It takes most people a week or two of evenings.
- · 1500 pieces is a project for the whole season.
If you're buying for a mixed group, go for detail over difficulty. A busy, colourful picture keeps everyone involved.
Make it a tradition
Some families start a new Christmas puzzle every year and keep a photo of each one. Others glue and frame their favourite. Either way, it gives the season something to look forward to.
You can filter our range by the Christmas theme. Browse it at Jigsaws Australia, or start with Christmas Eve.