How to Make a Puzzle Piece (If You’re Missing One)

We’ve all been there — you finish the entire puzzle and then… heartbreak. One piece is missing. Maybe the cat stole it, maybe it was never in the box, or maybe it vanished into the void that also eats socks. Whatever the reason, it’s a bummer. I've you've already reached out to the company (Check out our missing pieces page) or maybe you know it happened on your end, you could always attempt making your own replacement piece! 

Start by Scanning the Area

First things first — double and triple check the area. Look in shoes, under the rug, in your puzzle box flaps, even your pet’s food dish (ask me how I know...). If it really is gone, here’s how to fix it.

Step 1: Trace the Opening

Flip the completed puzzle over carefully and place some tracing paper or thin plastic over the missing piece's spot. Use a pencil to lightly trace the shape of the missing piece from the back. This gives you a template to work from.

Step 2: Cut a Replacement

Grab some similar thickness cardboard (cereal boxes work in a pinch). Use your traced outline and cut carefully with a precision craft knife. You want it to snugly fit into the puzzle without forcing it.

Step 3: Match the Image

If you still have the puzzle box or an extra image of the full artwork, take a photo and print the missing section at the right scale. You can also photocopy another part of the puzzle if it repeats, or try your hand at painting/drawing it in. Once the artwork is ready, glue it onto your new piece and let it dry.

Step 4: Fit and Fine-Tune

Once everything’s dry, slide the piece into place. You may need to lightly sand or trim edges to make sure it fits flush with the rest of the puzzle. Seal it with a little Mod Podge or clear glue if you want to add a protective finish.

Final Thoughts

It might take a little effort, but making your own puzzle piece is actually kind of satisfying. Is it as good as the original? Maybe not. But it brings your puzzle back to life — and that’s what counts.