Felt puzzle mat

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparation: Lay Out the Mat

Spread the felt mat flat on a smooth, level surface (e.g., a tabletop). If the mat has creases from folding, you can gently iron it with a lowheat iron (with a cloth barrier) or use steam to help smooth out the surface.

Tip: The felt surface has some friction to help puzzle pieces "grip" the mat and prevent slipping. However, it's best not to dump a large pile of loose pieces onto a tilted surface, as they may slide off. Placing pieces one by one onto the board gives a much better experience.

2. Storing the Puzzle: Roll It Up

When you need to take a break or move the puzzle to another location, use the included inflatable tube for storage:

Inflate the tube – Pinch the valve of the inflatable tube, open the antileak slit, and blow air into the tube until it is firm and full.

Place the tube – Position the inflated tube at either end of the felt mat, making sure it is centered.

Roll up the mat – Carefully roll the felt mat (along with the puzzle pieces) evenly and tightly around the inflatable tube. Apply steady yet gentle pressure – avoid rolling too tightly to prevent damaging the puzzle pieces.

Secure and store – Once fully rolled, fasten the elastic bands around both ends of the rolled tube to keep it secure, then place it into the storage bag. It can now be safely stored either vertically or horizontally.

3. Resuming the Puzzle: Unroll and Continue

When you're ready to resume puzzling, take the mat out of the storage bag, remove the elastic bands, and unroll the mat flat on the surface. The inflatable tube may slowly deflate over time – simply reinflate it before the next use.

Additional Tips

About applying puzzle glue – Some puzzlers apply glue directly on the felt mat and report that the glue does not stick to the felt. However, others recommend placing a sheet of newspaper or cardstock between the mat and the puzzle as a precaution. To be safe, if the puzzle pieces have poor interlocking, it's advisable to transfer the puzzle to another flat surface before applying glue.

Using it as a fixed board – If you don't need to roll it up frequently, you can simply use the felt mat as a stationary puzzle board. You can even store it flat without rolling – it's equally convenient.

Routine cleaning – For everyday maintenance, use a lint roller or a soft brush to remove dust and debris from the surface of the mat.