What is a custom photo jigsaw puzzle?

A custom photo jigsaw puzzle is made from a digital image that you upload to Jigsaw Novelties. We will reproduce the image using the Epson Photo Stylus printing system with archival pigment inks and quality Epson photo paper that will last for many years. This is a step up from the dye based ink systems of most home inkjet printers. The image is then glued to a cardboard backing with non-yellowing glue. Once dry, the puzzle is cut on our roller press, packed and shipped to you. The main difference between our puzzles and “commercial” puzzles is that the image will be unique to you and the recipient.

How do I order my custom photo jigsaw puzzle?

Visit our On-Line Store and simply pick out the size and piece count puzzle that you want to order. Place it in your shopping cart. Add the "Add Ons" that you desire. Proceed to checkout and follow the instructions to submit your payment to PayPal. Upon receipt of your order by Jigsaw Novelties, we will email you an order confirmation. Upon receipt of the confirmation, send a reply to Jigsaw Novelties with your image attached to the email. Then sit back and await your own custom photo jigsaw puzzle!

What types of digital files do I send to you?

Jigsaw Novelties prefers to use jpeg files (.jpg extension). If using a file type other than jpeg, please use our Contact Us email form and we will review your file type and get back with you.

How large of digital file should I have?

Normally, we tell people that the larger the file the better. However, the resolution of many digital cameras today is getting quite large. Some cameras are over 10 mega-pixels. Although these large image files will make great photos, they are much larger than needed for most puzzle sizes. If the digital file is too large, it may create problems in your ordering process (see next question).

The following is a good guide for minimum image size that will produce an acceptable puzzle. Remember, larger is better, IF it can be emailed:

4” X 6” jigsaw puzzle – 0.3 to 1 megapixel

8.5” X 11” jigsaw puzzle 1 to 2 megapixel

13” X 19” jigsaw puzzle – around 3 - 4 megapixel

For reference, a 4 megapixel camera when set to the highest setting will produce a file around 2 to 2.5 MB.

What is the problem with a large digital file?

Many email services place a limit on the size of email files or attachments that can be sent through them; or the recipient’s email service may place limits on them. If the file is larger than your service will allow, the image will not be sent. How large the file can be is dependent on your email service. Therefore, smaller files will usually be allowed. If you follow the guide above, the image should be satisfactory and most email services will handle them. As always, the clarity of the picture is very important. The puzzle will never be better than the original image.

If my file is still too large for the email servers, what do I do?

Copy the file to a CD and mail it to Jigsaw Novelties at Jigsaw Novelties, 3300 Allison-Bonnett Memorial Drive, Suite 106, Hueytown, AL 35023. Please include your order number with the CD and indicate in the "Ordering Instructions" block in the Shopping Cart that you will be sending a CD.

Will my photo be altered or cropped?

To maintain the aspect ratio (the picture’s proportions), some cropping will be required to fit the image to the chosen puzzle size without distortion. If the cropping appears to cut off an important part of the image, Jigsaw Novelties will contact you.

Can I make the puzzle from something other than a photo?

Yes. Any image that can be sent to Jigsaw Novelties in a digital format can be made into a custom jigsaw puzzle. Children's artwork (or adult) make excellent jigsaw puzzles. Simply scan the artwork into a digital format at 300 dpi or higher. If the file is too large, your email server may not transmit the image.

Is rush production or rush shipping available?

For normal production, Jigsaw Novelties will ship in 3 – 5 business days after receipt of the order, payment and image. Allow another 7 – 10 business days during December. For an additional charge, a single custom photo jigsaw puzzle can be shipped in 2 - 3 business days after receipt of order, payment and image.

Rush shipping options are provided at checkout. Charges and delivery times vary by carrier. Jigsaw Novelties is not responsible for shipping transit time. Note : transit times may vary, particularly during peak periods.

Does Jigsaw Novelties ship internationally?

No. Currently, Jigsaw Novelties is not able to ship internationally. However, please check back. It is our desire to develop this ability. Hopefully, it will be available in the near future.

What is the deal with copyright problems?

Jigsaw Novelties cannot process any order that contains a copyrighted image that does not have the copyright owner’s written release. It is the responsibility of our customers to obtain the appropriate copyright release. Most images from professional photographers and from the internet are copyrighted.

How do I pay?

Jigsaw Novelties is a PayPal Verified Merchant and has partnered with PayPal to provide you an easy and secure method of making a payment. PayPal is the trusted leader in online payments. PayPal protects your credit card information with industry leading security and fraud prevention systems. By using PayPal, Jigsaw Novelties will never have your financial information. PayPal will receive your financial information and process your payment. PayPal accepts Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express and checks. If you are not familiar with PayPal, please click on the following link to learn more about them (www.PayPal.com).

What is your guarantee and refund policy?

Please see our Terms of Service.