Participating in a public jigsaw puzzle? Follow these etiquette
What's the story
Public jigsaw puzzle corners are special places where people gather to collaborate on a shared project: a puzzle!
These spots, located in libraries, community centers, and cafes, provide a perfect opportunity for relaxation, mental stimulation, and social connection.
Knowing and following a few rules of etiquette can make the experience even more enjoyable for everyone.
Cleanliness
Start with clean hands
Before touching any puzzle pieces at a public jigsaw corner, please make sure your hands are clean.
Oils, dirt, and food residues can not only stain the pieces but also leave them sticky, creating an unpleasant experience for both current and future participants.
A simple hand wash or a squirt of sanitizer (which is usually provided at these places) can easily prevent such issues.
Permission
Ask before joining
If you see someone already working on a puzzle and you want to join in, always ask if it's okay first.
Some people might use their puzzle time as a way to meditate or escape from the world for a bit, and they might want to be alone.
It's important to respect that space to keep everything peaceful and fun.
Sharing
Share the space equitably
In public jigsaw puzzle spaces, real estate is precious. Be conscious of the space you're occupying, whether it's your physical presence or your personal items.
If the table is meant for four but only two are puzzling, don't take up so much space.
That way, it's easier for others to join without feeling like they're encroaching on your territory.
Carefulness
Handle pieces with care
Jigsaw puzzles in public spaces are meant for everyone's shared enjoyment.
It's important to be gentle with the pieces to avoid bending or breaking them.
If a piece happens to fall to the floor, please pick it up right away.
This prevents pieces from getting lost or damaged by being stepped on, and keeps the puzzle whole for everyone to enjoy!
Consideration
Leave it better than you found it
Before you walk away from the table, take a minute to tidy up any mess left behind from your puzzling session.
Group similar colors or patterns together and put stray pieces back near their matching section of the puzzle if you can.
This small act of kindness helps the next person get started more easily and keeps the positive community vibe going strong around shared puzzles.