INSIGHTS



HOW TO MAKE YOUR ILLUSTRATIONS A PERFECT FIT FOR THE JIGSAW PUZZLE MARKET


This article helps freelance illustrators understand how to break into the booming jigsaw puzzle market. You’ll learn what puzzle companies look for in artwork, why certain illustrations “fit” better than others, and how to make your portfolio stand out so your art becomes the missing piece publishers are searching for.

Written by Salli Swindell

Assembling a puzzle is fun, but illustrating a puzzle is even more fun! 

At one time puzzles were thought of as more of a kids’ toy but not anymore. The adult puzzle industry has exploded in recent years and it’s become a very rewarding income stream for freelance illustrators. Every puzzle company and brand has its own personality. Let’s unpack the pieces and share some tips for breaking into the adult puzzle niche.

Did you know…


The first jigsaw puzzle was created in 1760? It was a map of the world cleverly cut apart along the boundaries of the countries and used as a teaching tool. 

Jigsaw puzzles have evolved so much since then. Puzzles are no longer just a rainy day activity, they are now seen as a modern lifestyle product. Think: mindful and meditative, challenging and immersive, art-driven and design -focused, frame-worthy and collectible, conversation pieces and group activities. Puzzles have definitely become cool!

If you are unfamiliar with the puzzle industry you might be surprised to see all of the creative ways illustrations are used to make this product so engaging. People buy puzzles for gifts and for themselves. They are bought by all ages and for all ages. Puzzles are trending towards art that’s both engaging to build and interesting enough to frame and that is why this is a perfect space for illustrators! When purchasing a puzzle as a gift the buyer considers what the recipient likes and will most likely choose an illustration that is relevant to them. For instance, if your friend loves cats you might select a puzzle featuring a garden full of cats. When purchasing a puzzle for yourself you will gravitate towards something you are interested in and resonates with your taste.

Puzzle artwork is a very special niche and art directors look for several things when acquiring artwork for a puzzle. It’s not merely about finding cool illustrations. You want to keep the puzzler engaged without driving them nuts!

Puzzle Art Check List:


  • In Tune and On Brand: Does your style match the vibe of the company or brand? Every brand has their own aesthetic.
  • Delight is in the Details: Are there lots of details to discover like hidden objects and interesting textures? Nothing is more satisfying than discovering a little gem in the illustration while the puzzle is being assembled.
  • Mix It Up: Does your art have varied colors and patterns? Make sure it’s challenging and not frustratingly impossible to piece together! The endless blue sky section is no fun.
  • Well Balanced Beauty: Make sure the image works as a whole and also has rewarding little section of interest. No dumping all the good stuff in one corner!
  • Relevant and Relatable: Why would someone pick up this puzzle? Does it tell a story? Reflect a trend? Feel like YOU? Make you laugh, ooh and ahhh, spark adventure or just plain feel cozy? Do you think it would make the perfect gift for a friend?

Themes


Looking for ideas? We’ve got a few. Here is a list of themes to consider:

  • Foodie Fantasies: candy lands, cozy kitchens, rainbow pastries, picnic spreads, dinner parties, cocktails.
  • Animal Antics: cats in cafes, dogs on adventures, jungle wildlife, cute critters in cars.
  • Everyday Chaos: messy art studios, bustling farmers’ markets, cluttered bookshelves, splendid still life illustrations.
  • Dreamscapes: starry skies, surreal landscapes, floating whales, aurora borealis over glacial landscape.
  • Iconic People and Places: Famous landmarks, notable faces, remarkable musicians, noteworthy travel spots.
  • Seasonal Magic: cozy autumn, festive holidays, blooming spring, beach scenes.
  • Mind-Bending Patterns: kaleidoscopes, mandalas, geometric wonderlands.
  • Wanderlust: dreamy travel scenes, illustrated maps, magical forests.
  • Botanical Bliss: lush houseplants, jungle greens, wild florals, gorgeous greenhouses.
  • Coffee Culture: latte art, cozy cafés, stacks of mugs and pastries, coffee accoutrement. 
  • Architectural Gems: mid-century modern homes, cozy cabins, city skylines.
  • Cultural Patterns: Moroccan tiles, Japanese prints, Scandinavian designs, intricate quilt patterns.
  • Everyday Luxe: fashion spreads, jewelry collections, chic interiors, shoe styles in history.
  • Sporty Fun: Ski scenes, hiking and camping adventures, balloon rides, scuba diving excursions.

Publishers


Here are a few puzzle companies to check out:

Conclusion


The puzzle industry is more than just a trend—it’s a creative playground where illustrators can thrive. With the right mix of detail, storytelling, and style, your artwork can become someone’s next favorite puzzle to piece together on a rainy afternoon or frame as a keepsake. The opportunities are as varied as the themes themselves, and puzzle publishers are always on the lookout for fresh voices and unique perspectives. So sharpen your pencils (or your stylus), think about how your art might engage and delight puzzlers, and start exploring this rewarding niche. Your illustrations could be the missing piece in the puzzle market.
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