Why Is It Called a Jigsaw Puzzle? The Fascinating History Behind the Name

Introduction: The Curious Name of a Classic Pastime

Jigsaw puzzles have been a beloved form of entertainment for centuries, challenging minds and providing hours of engaging fun. But have you ever wondered, why is it called a "jigsaw" puzzle? The name seems unusual—after all, most modern puzzles aren’t made with jigsaws.

In this article, we’ll explore:

• The historical origins of the term "jigsaw puzzle"

• How early puzzles were actually made with jigsaws

• The evolution of puzzles from educational tools to popular entertainment

• Why the name stuck even after manufacturing methods changed

• Fun facts about jigsaw puzzles you may not know

By the end, you’ll understand exactly how this iconic brain-teaser got its name—and why it’s still called a jigsaw puzzle today!

The Origins of the Jigsaw Puzzle: A Tool for Education

Who Invented the Jigsaw Puzzle?

The jigsaw puzzle dates back to the 1760s, when British cartographer and engraver John Spilsbury created the first known puzzle. Spilsbury mounted a map onto a wooden board and carefully cut around the countries using a marquetry saw (a fine-bladed saw similar to a jigsaw).

His goal? To help children learn geography in an interactive way. Students would reassemble the map, reinforcing their knowledge of borders and locations. These early puzzles were called "dissected maps."

Why Was It Called a "Jigsaw" Puzzle?

The term "jigsaw puzzle" didn’t emerge until much later. In the 18th and early 19th centuries, these puzzles were made using hand-operated fretsaws or marquetry saws—tools with thin blades designed for intricate cuts.

The "jigsaw" (a type of saw with a reciprocating blade) became popular in the late 1800s. Since these saws were perfect for cutting curved puzzle pieces, manufacturers adopted them—and the name "jigsaw puzzle" stuck, even though earlier puzzles weren’t made with jigsaws.

How Jigsaw Puzzles Were Originally Made

Early Manufacturing: Hand-Cut Wooden Puzzles

• Craftsmen glued printed images onto thin mahogany or cedar boards.

• They used fine-bladed saws to cut out each piece individually.

• Because of the labor involved, early puzzles were expensive and mostly used in schools or by wealthy families.

The Shift to Cardboard Puzzles

• In the early 1900s, companies began mass-producing puzzles using die-cut cardboard.

• This made puzzles cheaper and more accessible to the general public.

• Despite no longer needing jigsaws, the name remained due to its established popularity.

Why Is It Still Called a Jigsaw Puzzle Today?

Even though modern puzzles are cut with hydraulic presses or lasers—not jigsaws—the name persists for several reasons:

1. Historical Tradition – The term was already well-known by the 20th century.

2. Brand Recognition – "Jigsaw puzzle" became the standard term in marketing.

3. Nostalgia – The name evokes the classic, handcrafted origins of puzzles.

4. Lack of a Better Term – No other name accurately describes interlocking puzzles.

What Are Modern Puzzles Made With?

Today, most puzzles are made using:

• Die-cutting machines (for cardboard puzzles)

• Laser cutters (for wooden or premium puzzles)

• Injection molding (for plastic 3D puzzles)

Yet, we still call them jigsaw puzzles—a nod to their fascinating history.

Fun Facts About Jigsaw Puzzles

1. The World’s Largest Puzzle – The "Memorable Disney Moments" puzzle has 40,320 pieces!

2. Puzzle Mania During the Great Depression – Puzzles became a cheap, reusable form of entertainment.

3. The Most Expensive Puzzle – A custom-made gold and jewel-encrusted puzzle sold for over $27,000.

4. Speed Puzzle Competitions – Some enthusiasts compete to finish puzzles in record time.

5. Therapeutic Benefits – Studies show puzzles improve memory and reduce stress.

Conclusion: A Name Rooted in History

So, why is it called a jigsaw puzzle? The answer lies in its origins—early puzzles were cut with jigsaws and fretsaws, and the name endured even as manufacturing evolved.

From 18th-century educational tools to today’s mass-produced entertainment, jigsaw puzzles have remained a timeless challenge. And while the tools have changed, the name "jigsaw puzzle" is here to stay!

FAQ: Why Is It Called a Jigsaw Puzzle?

1. Were the first puzzles really made with jigsaws?
No—they were made with fretsaws and marquetry saws, but the term "jigsaw" became popular later.

2. When did cardboard puzzles replace wooden ones?
Cardboard puzzles became common in the early 1900s due to lower costs.

3. What’s the difference between a jigsaw puzzle and a regular puzzle?
"Jigsaw puzzle" is the correct term for interlocking puzzles—there’s no difference!

4. Why don’t we call them "die-cut puzzles" instead?
Tradition and brand recognition dinosour game keep the original name alive.

5. What’s the hardest jigsaw puzzle ever made?
Puzzles with single-color designs or no edge pieces are among the toughest.

Now that you know the story behind the name, your next puzzle session will have a little extra historical charm!