Why you need a Jigsaw Puzzle Table

The Best Puzzle Tables, Puzzle Boards & Puzzle Mats

The main differences between the best puzzle tables, boards, and mats are all the extra features & storage such as drawers.

The best puzzle tables can now rotate your puzzle, have drawers and covers for the sorted pieces, fold, tilt, collapse to reduce space, and even have legs with lockable wheels (so they can be used over an armchair!). They can be wooden, portable and fit 500, 1000, 1500 or even 2000 piece puzzles.

I’m Geoff, a former Director of Product Development with over 20 years of puzzle experience at Gibsons Games, including developing their top-rated Puzzle Board. See my recommended Puzzle tables, boards, and mats below. Or, discover how to make your own DIY puzzle board from foamboard!

Need a Jigsaw Table

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My Recommended Puzzle Tables & Boards

I spent a lot of time developing the Gibsons Puzzle Board.
Raised edges, smooth felt surface, cross-ply board to minimise bending but also keep weight down.
I am glad it has got some good ratings 🙂

Here are my recommended tables & boards for jigsaw puzzles below.
Also, have a look at this very clever Puzzle Mat from Puzzle Ready.
Somehow, you can roll your whole puzzle around a foam roller WITH four storage boxes,
and it comes with a carrying case and shoulder strap. Suddenly puzzling has become portable!

Why do I need a Jigsaw Puzzle table, board or mat?

Imagine you are enjoying your perfect puzzle, only to be interrupted by backache, the chaos of scattered pieces
or being told to move your puzzle as it is time for dinner!

  • Neckache or backache? We have all seen our kids or grandkids looking at their phones – doing long-term damage to their necks by peering over. Why do we do the same to our own bodies by peering over our puzzles? There are now puzzle tables that can be angled and even rotated to help prevent aches in the neck or back.
  • Puzzle wherever you like! With a puzzle table with legs or wheels, you can, from your kitchen to your dining room to your garden puzzle anywhere.
  • Organised Fun – Sort your pieces as you like, then put them in different drawers, which can be integrated into some boards.
  • Puzzle whenever you like! No more moving your puzzle and losing your pieces when it’s dinner time and the table needs to be cleared.
  • Say goodbye to lost piecesPuzzle tables can have drawers or covers to keep your pieces safe. Unless you have a dog with an energetic tail, or a cat who likes to sleep on your puzzles, of course!

You invest hours or days puzzling – invest in yourself and be comfortable!

What are the Puzzle sizes for the Puzzle companies?

You need the right-sized board for your puzzle.
All the boards below will have extra room on the side of the full puzzle so you can sort your pieces.
How much room will depend on which brand of puzzle you have, as they all vary! 

I’ve checked on each company’s website and listed the more popular 500, 1000, 1500, and 2000-piece sizes,
but please check the size of your own puzzle on the box.
Puzzle companies can change the sizes of their puzzles, and some are panoramic (especially Eurographic) or even square!

*** Do note that Cobble Hill (500pc) & White Mountain (1000pc) have larger puzzles than the others.
Do take this into account when choosing the right-sized table, board or mat.  

Brand500 pieces1000 pieces1500 pieces2000 pieces
Ravensburger49 x 36 cm (19.3 x 14.2 in)70 x 50 cm (27.6 x 19.7 in)80 x 60 cm (31.5 x 23.6 in)98 x 75 cm (38.6 x 29.5 in)
Buffalo Games54 x 38 cm (21.3 x 15 in)68 x 50 cm (26.8 x 19.7 in)80 x 60 cm (31.5 x 23.5 in)98 x 67 cm (38.5 x 26.5 in)
Cobble Hill68 x 49 cm (26.6 x 19.3 in)68 x 49 cm (26.6 x 19.3 in)76 x 61 cm (30 x 24 in)100 x 68 cm (39.4 x 26.8 in)
Pomegranate61 x 46 cm (24 x 18 in)74 x 51 cm (29.1 x 20.1 in)Not available94 x 69 cm (37 x 27 in)
White Mountain61 x 46 cm (24 x 18 in)76 x 61 cm (30 x 24 in)Not availableNot available
Eurographics67 x 49 cm (26.5 x 19.3 in)67 x 49 cm (26.5 x 19.3 in)Not available100 x 68 cm (39.3 x 26.7 in)
Gibsons48 x 34 cm (19 x 13 in)68 x 49 cm (27 x 19 in)Not available98 x 68 cm (39 x 27 in)

Puzzle Surface – Are you a Picker or Slider? Felt or Wood?

How do you like to puzzle?

Are you a ‘Picker’ who picks up and places each piece?
Or are you a ‘slider’ who slides the piece to its new home?

A ‘Picker’ will generally like a ‘carpet’ type of surface, such as felt, that has some depth so you can get your fingers or fingernails under the piece.
A ‘Slider’ will prefer a smooth surface and find felt to be too rough and slow.

 

ProsCons
FeltProvides a non slip surface that helps to hold puzzle pieces in place.Can be difficult to slide pieces around - especially for wooden puzzles.
Soft texture can prevent damage to puzzle pieces.Very prone to lint & puzzle dust.
Wood or MDFSmooth surface allows for easy movement of puzzle pieces.Pieces might slip & slide around too easily, especially if the table is angled.
Doesn't crease & is more durable
Can be heavy and less portable than other materials.
No lint or dust - can be easily wiped.Can be a 'hard' surface to lay your palms on for a prolonged time.

Portable Jigsaw Puzzle Tables with Legs & Wheels

When you need to move your puzzle from room to room, straddle it across your armchair,
or even use it for your TV dinner.
Puzzle Tables with wheels are the ultimate option for the truly dedicated puzzler with their height & tilt adjustability.
Even better when they have lockable wheels!

Becko 1500pc Tilting Puzzle Table

  • Material : Pinewood & Particle board with metal frame
  • Surface : Flannelette
  • Assembly required : Minor
  • Puzzle Area : 24.8″ x 35″
  • Folded size : 36.6″ x 26.4″ x 28.6″
  • Weight : 30.4 pounds
  • Special features : Tiltable with 5 different angles. Height adjustable 75cm to 95cm. Legs on lockable castors so easy to move. Cover mat to keep the puzzle safe from cats!

If your budget doesn’t stretch so far, have a look at this well-reviewed puzzle table from All4JIG, which still allows you to piece together a 1500pc puzzle, has adjustable legs, 3 angles of tilt and a 25″x 34″ puzzle area.

USER REVIEWS

  • Functionality: Many users have found the table to be perfect for their puzzling needs, especially with its adjustable tilt and height features. However, some noted that it’s best suited for up to 1000-piece puzzles.
  • Design: The table is sturdy, easy to move around with its wheels, and comes with a cover mat. The felt on the board feels soft and provides a good grip for puzzle pieces.
  • Assembly: While the table is relatively easy to assemble, some users faced challenges with certain parts. It’s recommended to use a power screwdriver for a smoother assembly process.
  • Customer Service: There were mixed reviews regarding customer service. While some users had positive experiences, others mentioned not receiving certain parts and facing difficulties in reaching out to the company.
  • Value for Money: Most users felt that the table was worth the investment, especially for avid puzzlers. Some did mention that it felt a bit overpriced, but the overall functionality and design made up for it.

Folding Puzzle Tables

Foldaway or collapsible puzzle tables make your unfinished puzzles much easier to transport.
Often tiltable or designed at comfortable heights, they can reduce strain on your neck & back.
It’s like a laptop stand but one for your puzzle to create the most comfortable height & angle for your neck & back.

Bits and Pieces Fold-and-Go Wooden Jigsaw Table

  • Material : Pinewood with a Rosewood stain
  • Surface : Felt
  • Assembly required : Minor
  • Puzzle Area : 25″ x 34″
  • Folded size : 38″ x 26.5″ x 2.5″
  • Weight : 10.9kg
  • Special features : Two fold out side panels which can be angled to sort your pieces.
    Magnetic bar to hold your puzzle box whilst you complete your puzzle – what a genius idea! Carry handle.
  • Note – this table isn’t tiltable (unless you make the two front legs shorter, which may not be a bad idea as some users say it is a bit tall

USER REVIEWS

Pros:

  • Excellent customer service: Quick response and prompt replacement for defective items.
  • Sturdy and durable: Many users found the table sturdy and well-constructed.
  • Convenient features: Magnetic bar to hold puzzle box, felt-covered removable boards, and foldable design.
  • Good for puzzle enthusiasts: Provides a dedicated space for puzzles, especially beneficial for those with pets.
  • Easy to set up and store: Folds up nicely and is easy to store.
  • Aesthetically pleasing: Some users mentioned it as a lovely piece of furniture that can be kept in the living room.
  • Keeps puzzles safe: Protects puzzles from pets and external elements.

Cons:

  • Leg design issues: Legs must be opened fully and locked with a pin. Some users didn’t realise this and found the legs spindly and not sturdy enough.
  • Storage issues: Puzzle pieces do not stick to the sideboards when carrying and storing. Puzzles may fall apart inside when the table is stored on its side.
  • Height concerns: Some users found the table to be a bit tall for regular chairs.
  • Limited access to puzzle sides: Difficult to access the sides of the puzzle where the fold-outs are.
  • Price: Some users felt the table was overpriced for its features and build quality.
  • Durability concerns: Issues with broken latches and hinges were reported. The central area was reported as a little weak.
  • Storage limitations: The felt-covered boards may not be suitable for puzzles larger than 500 pieces.

Tiltable / Foldaway Puzzle Board

Foldaway or collapsible puzzle tables make your unfinished puzzles much easier to transport.
Often tiltable or designed at comfortable heights, they can reduce strain on your neck & back.
It’s like a laptop stand but one for your puzzle to create the most comfortable height & angle for your neck & back.

Becko Puzzle Board with 2 angle Adjustable Bracket/Stand

  • Material : MDF base with pinewood frame
  • Surface : Flannelette
  • Assembly required : None
  • Puzzle Area : 22.4″ x 30.3″
  • Folded size :
  • Weight :
  • Special features : Tiltable (2 angles). The board is seperate so can be easily stowed away.

USER REVIEWS

  • Quality: Users have praised the puzzle board for its functionality and design. The pieces stay in place, and the edge prevents pieces from sliding.
  • Convenience: The board is portable and can be easily stored away when not in use as it is seperate from the base. Some users mentioned sliding it under the sofa to keep it out of the way.
  • Design: The board comes with a stand and is made of felt, which holds the puzzle pieces in place. It also offers two tilted angles, which is beneficial for those with back issues.
  • Customer Service: The company has received commendations for its outstanding customer service. One user mentioned receiving a replacement board when a part of theirs was broken.
  • Minor Issues: A few users pointed out packaging and delivery issues, with one mentioning a bent and ripped corner upon arrival.

Puzzle Tables & Boards with Drawers & Covers

How do you manage the struggle of managing hundreds of loose pieces?
You have sorted all those pesky sky pieces, but now, where do you put them?
Now, there is a way to keep them organized without having to buy a larger, heavier, and more expensive puzzle board.

Puzzle boards can now have hidden drawers underneath!
Some of the drawers can be color-coded, and others even have magnetic locks to keep the drawers closed when moving.
Does that make your puzzle cat & dog-proof from missing pieces?

Becko 1500pc Tilting Jigsaw Puzzle Board with Colorful Magnetic Drawers & Cover

  • Material : MDF base with a pinewood frame
  • Surface : Flannel
  • Drawers : 4 Colorful Magnetic drawers!
  • Assembly required : None
  • Puzzle Area : 22.4″ x 35.4″
  • Folded size : 36.2″ x 25.2″ x 1.3″
  • Weight : 12.6 pounds
  • Special features : Tiltable (5 different angles). Comes with a transparent cover to protect the pieces (and can be used to slide under a finished puzzle when moving it). Magnetic drawers so they stay closed. Does this board have everything except legs!

USER REVIEWS

  • Quality: The board is made of softer pinewood, and the flannel on the board is thick enough to keep puzzle pieces from sliding down when tilted. However, some users reported issues with the wood’s finish, and one user had a corner of a board chipped.
  • Functionality: The tilt design is highly appreciated as it reduces glare and neck pain. The drawers are useful for sorting pieces, and the felt holds the pieces in place solidly, even at full tilt. The board is also portable and comes with a cover.
  • Design: Some users mentioned that the felt has nail heads that create bulges on the puzzle surface. Additionally, one of the drawers was slightly too big, causing fitting issues.
  • Customer Feedback: Most users are satisfied with the product, praising its design and functionality.
Masterpieces wooden puzzle table

Masterpieces 1500pc Wooden Puzzle Board with Four Removable Drawers and plastic cover

If you prefer a slightly larger puzzle area, have a look at this one from Materpieces which has the same magnetic drawers

  • Material : MDF base with a pinewood frame
  • Surface : Smooth!
  • Drawers : 4 Magnetic removable drawers
  • Assembly required : None
  • Puzzle Area : 24″ x 35″
  • Folded size :
  • Weight : 14.6 pounds
  • Special features : Magnetic drawers to stay closed.
    Non slip Felt feet to prevent damage to the surface below.

 

PuzzleReady 1000pc Puzzle Board with Drawers & Cover mat

  • Material : MDF base with a pinewood frame
  • Surface : Felt
  • Drawers : 4 Colorful Magnetic drawers!
  • Assembly required : None
  • Puzzle Area : 24″ x 30″
  • Folded size : 30″ x 24″ x 1.5″
  • Weight : 11.2 pounds
  • Special features : Comes with a black cover mat to protect the pieces (and can be used to slide under a finished puzzle when moving it). Also available for 1500 puzzles.
  • USER REVIEWS
  • Quality: The board is solidly constructed, providing a firm surface for puzzles. However, some users mentioned that the wood feels a bit rough and expressed concerns about potential splinters.
  • Functionality: The board is large enough to fit even oversized puzzles. The felt surface holds pieces in place well, and the heavy cover protects the puzzle effectively. The board is also lightweight enough for easy maneuverability.
  • Design: The colorful drawers are larger than expected and are very useful for sorting pieces. They slide out completely, making them versatile for different puzzling needs.
  • Portability: The board can be easily moved and stored under a bed or couch. It’s suitable for those without a dedicated puzzle space.
  • Customer Feedback: Most users are satisfied with the product, praising its functionality and design. The board has transformed their puzzling experience, making it more organized and enjoyable. Some users expressed a desire for finished wood for a smoother feel.

Rotating Puzzle Boards

 

Puzzlers know the challenge isn’t just finding the right puzzle pieces – you have to stretch to put them in place!
A rotating puzzle board offers 360-degree access, so no more craning your neck to see if it fits or overextending your arms
– especially on those 1000pc portrait puzzles!

ALL4JIG Rotating 1500pc Puzzle Board with 6 Drawers

This rotating puzzle table has the most reviews on Amazon – over 80% are 5 stars!

  • Material : Sustainable hardwood (although not specified which type)
  • Surface : Smooth – material not specified
  • Drawers : 6 drawers
  • Rotatable : yes – lazy susan
  • Assembly required : Minor
  • Puzzle Area : 24″ x 30″
  • Size : 36.8″ x 27.4″ x 2.1″
  • Weight : 16.7 pounds
  • Special features : Lazy Susan to rotate the board. Comes with a translucent cover mat to protect the pieces.

Also, have a look at their Tilting & Rotating puzzle board, the 1500pc puzzle table with extra long legs, the 2000pc puzzle table with legs & four drawers, and the fantastic puzzle organiser book which holds 20 x 1000pc puzzles!

USER REVIEWS

  • Quality: The board is solid and sturdy, providing a reliable surface for puzzles. However, some users mentioned the wood feels a bit rough, and there were concerns about potential splinters.
  • Functionality: The board’s large size accommodates even oversized puzzles. The felt surface holds pieces in place effectively, and the heavy cover protects the puzzle from external elements.
  • Design: The colorful drawers are spacious and can be pulled out completely, offering versatility for different puzzling needs.
  • Portability: Lightweight and easy to move, this board can be stored under a bed, making it ideal for those with limited space.
  • Customer Feedback: Most users are highly satisfied, praising the board’s functionality and design. The rotating feature, in particular, has been highlighted as a game-changer, allowing for easy access to all parts of the puzzle.

Puzzle Boards

Perfect for when you are looking for something simpler, lighter & cheaper.
There are no drawers or wheels – simply a great surface on which to puzzle, and an easier and portable way to pick up your puzzle and stow it away out of sight. 
(You can, of course, rotate it if you want to!)

The Original Puzzle Board - PortaPuzzle

The puzzle board that started it all. Millions have been sold around the world.

  • Material : Not specified but I believe it is a type of multilayered cardboard covered with felt.
  • Surface : Felt
  • Drawers : none
  • Rotatable : no
  • Assembly required : none
  • Puzzle Area : 24″ x 30″ (for the 1000pc version)
  • Size : 23.3″ x 31.5″ x 1″ (for the 1000pc version)
  • Weight : 5.6 pounds (for the 1000pc version)
  • Special features : Lighter compared to wooden puzzle boards, although not as light as a Puzzle Roll. Fold out sides for assembling pieces. Two felt covers.

USER REVIEWS

  • Functionality: The Portapuzzle provides a neat solution for storing puzzles in progress. It can be easily stored under a bed or sofa, making it ideal for those with limited space.
  • Design: The board comes with two flat trays which can be used for organizing or building out a section. However, it’s worth noting that while it’s advertised for up to 1000 piece puzzles, some users found it more suitable for a maximum of 500 piece puzzles.
  • Durability: Some users mentioned that the board can warp if not taken care of properly. It’s essential to ensure it doesn’t get wet.
    (Note : I suggest to keep it flat when not in use as leaning any board against a wall can cause any board to bend).
  • Protection: The board offers a great solution for those with pets or young children. Puzzles can be covered and stored away safely, preventing any disturbances.
  • Portability: The board is designed to be easily moved, allowing users to work on their puzzles in different locations or store them away when not in use.

Jigsort 1000 - Jigsaw Puzzle Board with Carry Case

 

The deluxe option with a removable Puzzle board, four Sort Trays all contained in a Carry Case.

  • Material : Soft baize covered wooden board
  • Surface : Felt with a raised edge
  • Drawers : none
  • Rotatable : no
  • Assembly required : none
  • Puzzle Area : 20.5″ x 29.5″ (for the 1000pc version)
  • Size : 25.6″ x 33″ x 2″ (for the 1000pc version)
  • Weight : 12.5 pounds (for the 1000pc version)
  • Special features : The portable puzzle board means it can be used seperately. High Quality carry case with handle & two zips to stop those pieces sneaking out! Available as a Jigsort 500 and Jigsort 1500 too.

USER REVIEWS

  • Functionality: ‘Well made’, ‘well packaged’, and ‘Good quality’ were frequently mentioned.
  • Design: Expensive, but worth the cost. Not suitable for the larger White Mountain 1000pc puzzles.
  • Durability: Very high quality, and no problems reported.
  • Protection: The Carry Case provides an extra layer of protection, especially with the two zips.
  • Portability: The felt stops the pieces sliding when put away, especially with the sort trays on top, even when carried vertically by the handle! Heavy due to the quality of material used.

Puzzle Mats

The cheapest and lightest option.
Assemble your puzzle on a felt mat, and when you are ready to pack away,
wrap the felt with pieces around a cardboard tube and carry it away.
Who thought this would actually work as well as it does!

The Original Puzzle Roll - 3000pcs

The Original Puzzle Mat by Jumbo.

  • Material : Felt with a cardboard tube
  • Surface : Felt
  • Drawers : none
  • Rotatable : no
  • Assembly required : none
  • Puzzle Area : 24″ x 30″
  • Size : 11.8″ x 11.8″ x 7.9″
  • Weight : 2.3 pound
  • Special features : Cheap! The only solution for a 3000pc puzzle? Be very careful when wrapping up your pieces around the cardboard roll. It does work but practice first!

USER REVIEWS

  • Functionality: The Puzzle & Roll provides a convenient solution for storing puzzles in progress. It can be easily rolled up, making it ideal for those who want to free up space between puzzling sessions.
  • Design: The mat comes with marked boundaries for different puzzle sizes, aiding in the placement of edge pieces. However, some users found the mat to be a bit wrinkled, which can affect the puzzling experience.
  • Durability: While the mat serves its purpose, care needs to be taken to prevent it from getting wet.
  • Protection: The mat offers a great solution for those with pets or young children. Puzzles can be rolled up and stored away safely, preventing any disturbances.
  • Portability: Designed to be easily rolled up, it allows users to work on their puzzles in different locations or store them away when not in use.

Masterpieces Puzzle Roll

This puzzle roll is similar, and also well reviewed.
If you want to buy from a USA company, Masterpieces have this puzzle roll in 1000, 1500pc & 3000pc sizes.

Masterpieces puzzle roll 1500pc

Puzzle Ready Mat – a Roll up mat with Trays!

Also, have a look at this very clever Puzzle mat from Puzzle Ready.
It comes with a foam roller (not cardboard), a neat carrying bag with shoulder strap and incredibly four foldable mats.
How do these mats roll around the roller? They are a super clever design, as they are also made from felt, and the four corners can be pinned together to make a tray!

Puzzle-Ready_Puzzle-Mat

Foam Board as a Jigsaw Puzzle Table

The ultimate budget option is to use a simple foam board as a puzzle table.

Pros :

  • Cheap
  • Very light
  • Very flat – no wrinkly felt
  • Smooth surface – good if you are a slider of pieces.
  • Customisable – can be taped together to create huge boards!
  • It can be easily cut to size with a sharp knife.

Cons :

  • No felt – if that is your preferred surface
  • Fragile – can easily bend, snap, or be dented. Choose a really thick board!
  • It may not be possible to get the size you want without taping two together. Taping creates a weak joint and an uneven surface.
  • No drawers for storage
  • No raised edges to keep the pieces on the board
  • White boards can create eyestrain, especially if they reflect light from your lamp. Choose black or grey.

Build Your Own DIY Jigsaw Puzzle Table (or Ikea)

If you decide to build your own DIY puzzle board, you can find a 30″ x 40″ foam board and add some cheap molding to the edges to keep your pieces from sliding off!
Try gluing a piece of felt or faux leather material to your board with felt glue. You can choose any material or color you like!

For a better surface, try self-adhesive cork contact paper
Try a foam board sandwiched with Science fair boards and covered with felt.
Plywood is another option but very heavy!

Cork bulletin boards can be great. This Cork board even has an Oak frame.

A Replacement Pan for a Dog crate is a very clever & unique option – made from acrylic and has edges. Midwest have lots of different sizes.

Finally, a semi-build option is a DIY puzzle table from Ikea with four rolling castors to slide under your bed!

Jigsaw Puzzle Glue

If you want to keep your finished puzzle intact, you will need something to hold the pieces together – Puzzle Glue!

This puzzle glue from Masterpieces has a sponge applicator to make it easier to apply than the normal brush.
However, if you want a fancy jigsaw-shaped bottle with a traditional spreader for your puzzle glue, have a look at this!
They also have this cute little puzzle box stand which holds it up at a nice comfortable angle!

Jigsaw Puzzle self adhesive sheets – no glue!

Don’t like the smell or stickiness of glue?
There are actually self-adhesive sheets now available where you simply peel off the backing and lay over your puzzle pieces.
Available from Masterpieces.

Conclusion:
Should I buy a Puzzle Table, Board or Mat?

How much is a meal out for two people? How much is the top-selling Becko puzzle board? The same price!

A meal out may last 2 hours? A puzzle board can have you puzzling comfortably for over 300 hours!
(Based on an average of 8-10 hours for a 1000pc puzzle, and a puzzler doing 6-8 puzzles a year for five years)

For those with a tighter budget, think about creating your own DIY puzzle board.
Whichever Puzzle Table, Board, or Mat you choose, I hope I have helped you choose the right one for YOU.

Jigthings – a special hello!

I first met Colin & Lisa, founders of Jigthings, 20 years ago whilst working for Gibsons. I was struck by their passion for making the best Jigsaw puzzle accessories and incredible enthusiasm for jigsaw puzzles.

Established in 1999, you can see how Colin & Lisa started  Jigthings here and how they became the ‘Dyson of the jigsaw puzzle accessory world’!

See the Jigtables, Jigsorts & Jigboards on the Jigthings store.

Geoff Lee