
Every Jan. 29 is Puzzle Day, so why not visit a Baltimore-area store to pick up a few to solve? It's a great activity for the entire family to share, and you can even preserve your puzzle to use as colorful wall art.
Our real estate agents recommend visiting the following stores if you'd like to know where to puzzle it out around Baltimore:
- Shenanigans Toy Shop – 5004 Lawndale Ave., Baltimore, MD 21210
Shenanigans Toy Shop is a locally owned, independent toy store with a large pirate "Playmo-Bill" standing guard outside. You'll find plenty of puzzles here, as well as board games, model kits, chess sets, and other great toys that appeal to all ages. Shop hours are from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday and from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday.
- aMuse Toys – 1623 Thames St., Baltimore, MD 21231
Whether you're looking to put together a thousand-piece puzzle of the Mona Lisa or would rather choose a Baltimore Ravens puzzle, you'll find them – and everything in between – at aMuse Toys. This independent store is family-owned and operated and has a great selection of award-winning toys and gifts from around the world. Store hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday.
- Barnes & Noble – 1819 Reisterstown Rd., Baltimore, MD 21208
Although you probably think of Barnes & Noble as a place to find books (and it certainly is!), it may not come to mind as a place to buy jigsaw puzzles. If you visit the store, however, you'll find a variety of puzzles for all ages and in a large variety of piece counts. From nature scenes to nostalgic themes, you're likely to find what you're looking for. The store is open 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Saturday and from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday.
- Lakeshore Learning Store – 1620 E. Joppa Rd., Towson, MD 21286
Lakeshore Learning Store has a wide variety of teaching resources at its Baltimore-area location, located near Towson homes for sale. And since it's an outlet location, you'll be able to score deals of up to 75% off on everything, including puzzles, toys, and art supplies. Hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Saturday and from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday.
To Preserve Your Puzzle
- Preparing
You'll need a cover such as wax or parchment paper between your puzzle and the surface of your work area. If you haven't put a cover in place before you start the paper, try to shimmy the paper underneath or ask someone to help you temporarily slide your puzzle onto cardboard before moving it onto a cover. Then brush any lint off your puzzle and use a rolling pin or the side of a glass to get it as flat as possible.
- Gluing
Get some liquid glue (Mod Podge is ideal) and spread it on the back of your puzzle as evenly as possible, sealing the edges well. Take care to cover every piece without using too much glue. You'll need to be patient since the glue can take up to 5 hours to fully dry.
- Mounting and Framing
Finally, if you want to frame your puzzle, mount it to a foam board first. Choose your frame and cover your board with glue where you'll be placing the puzzle down. Line the puzzle up and gently press it down. Put a few heavy objects on it, and let it dry for 24 hours.
Contact us today to find out about Baltimore homes for sale. We'd be happy to assist you in buying a home and/or selling your current house.