Jigsaw Puzzle Question

[jbrowning]

So it is a whopping 14 degrees outside so I'm stuck inside thinking. And something just came to mind. When I'm cutting the jigsaw puzzle out with the picture on the front. Will/should I put a clear coat or polyurethane on the back after I cut it out or before I cut it or do I need to worry about it? I will be using Baltic Birch Plywood 1/4". 

 

Come on warmer weather.

 

Thanks

Jim

[Young_Scroller]

Ive never cut a puzzle before but I would think before because that would make it easier so you didnt have to apply it to a whole bunch of pieces one at a time. I dont know for sure though.

[dgman]

I have never finished the back of a jig saw puzzle.

[amazingkevin]

I too never have done anything to the back ,but before hand would be better

[heppnerguy]

no finish on the back of any for me either

 

Dick

heppnerguy

[oldhudson]

I've never done a puzzle before but for all my woodworking I generally finish the entire  piece, front, back, outside, inside and bottom. I just think it's more professional. Just my 2¢.

[Phantom Scroller]

Never coated the back before on my puzzles it's either in a box or on a table so can't see it anyway. Roly. 

[MrsN]

I usually finish the back of a puzzle with a coat or two of poly/lacquer/acrylic spray, depending on the project. I just like the way it looks and feels.

 

On a related note. If you only finish one side of a piece of wood moisture is absorbed and released differently and it will warp. Baltic birch plywood is considerably more stable than solid wood (and other plywoods) so I don't really think it would warp much but it is often a good idea to finish all sides.

[jbrowning]

But on the front a picture will be glued to it. Would that act like a finish?

 

Thanks

Jim

[dgman]

What Katie said is correct. But puzzle pieces are small and not likely to warp.

The bottom line....if you are concerned, finish the back!