Every time you pour a fresh box of puzzle pieces onto your table, you are participating in a tradition that spans more than two and a half centuries. Today, we use them to unplug and decompress, but the very first design wasn't created for relaxation at all.
So, who invented the jigsaw puzzle? And how did a simple 18th-century classroom tool evolve into the beloved hobby we know today? Let’s take a trip back in time to explore the fascinating history of our favourite pastime.
The History of the Humble Jigsaw
Who invented the jigsaw puzzle? And why?
The credit goes to a British mapmaker and geographer named John Spilsbury in 1766. Spilsbury wanted a more engaging way to teach local children geography. He took a wooden map of the world and used a fine hand saw to cut along the borders of the countries. These early iterations were called "dissected maps", and students had to piece the continents back together to learn how the world fit as one.
Why is it called a jigsaw?
Interestingly, Spilsbury never heard the word jigsaw! For over a century, they were strictly known as dissected puzzles. The name we use today only came about in the late 19th century when the jigsaw (a mechanical saw with a fine blade) was invented. Makers began using this new tool to cut intricate shapes out of wood, and the name stuck!
What do you call a person who does jigsaw puzzles?
If you love spending your weekends sorting through borders and colours, you are officially a dissectologist! This whimsical term was coined by historians to describe collectors and enthusiasts of the craft.
The Modern Evolution: From Maps to Mindfulness
Why are jigsaw puzzles important for adults?
While they started as a lesson for children, jigsaw puzzles for adults have become a cornerstone of modern stress relief. In fact, as we explored in our recent guide on how jigsaw puzzles support your mental health, the act of matching shapes creates a therapeutic "flow state" that actively lowers stress levels and builds a screen-free haven for your mind.
Our Story: Crafting a Family Favourite
When you look back at John Spilsbury’s hand-cut wooden maps, it is incredible to see how far the industry has travelled, and our own story is a testament to that evolution.
The House of Puzzles emerged onto the scene back in 1999 with a modest collection of just 12 jigsaws. Thanks to the grit, determination, and hard work of founders Grant, Audray, and Ivor, the brand rocketed to new heights, growing into a treasure-filled collection of over 600 unique designs loved by families all over the globe.
In 2024, an exciting new chapter began when the torch was passed into the open arms of the Bigjigs Toys family. Led by Liz and Peter Ireland, Bigjigs Toys began its journey in a garden shed back in 1985, hand-painting and packing wooden puzzles made from old floorboards! Today, that shared, deep-rooted passion for premium quality and unique, varied cuts ensures that every single puzzle piece remains a masterpiece of jigsaw artwork, connecting our rich heritage with modern innovation.
Our Bestselling Jigsaw Puzzles
If you want to experience the absolute best of modern puzzle engineering, our community constantly raves about these top picks from our collection:
Kingfisher Cottage 1000 Piece
The brilliant blue feathers in Kingfisher Cottage by artist Robert Barry make it one of our most satisfying 1000 piece jigsaw puzzles, offering a beautiful riverside scene that acts as the ultimate mental reset.
4 x 500 - Going Places 500 Piece Jigsaw
For the ultimate variety, the Going Places Multi-Pack gives you four distinct 500 piece jigsaw puzzles in a single box, illustrated by various artists to take you on a nostalgic journey through classic British transport.
Regatta Day - BIG 500 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle
If you want a lively nautical scene with a slightly easier grip, Regatta Day by artist Keith Stapleton is a brilliant big jigsaw puzzle format that features extra large puzzle pieces, so you can enjoy the challenge without straining your eyes.
Feeling in a summery mood? Check out our blog on seaside jigsaw puzzles to get you through the heat waves!
Taking It Easy - BIG 250 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle
Perfect for a rainy afternoon or a quick half-hour wind-down, Taking It Easy by artist Colin Westingdale is a comforting 250 piece puzzle that brings a cosy, sunlit canal setting right to your coffee table.
Keep Making History
From hand-carved wooden maps used in 1766 to the vibrant, intricate puzzles for adults on our tables today, the joy of the final "click" has never changed. Whether you are a lifelong dissectologist or just looking for a new way to wind down after work, you are keeping a beautiful history alive with every box you open.
You can explore our entire range of premium illustrated puzzles on our website today to find your next favourite challenge.