Custom Puzzles Faq

What Makes Your Custom Puzzles Different from Standard Photo Puzzles?

Our custom puzzles are laser-cut from 4mm thick sustainably harvested wood, feature intricate whimsical pieces, and come in elegant, collectible packaging—unlike mass-produced cardboard photo puzzles.

 

What is the Difference Between Portrait and Landscape for Custom Puzzles?

The difference between portrait and landscape is about orientation:

  • Portrait is taller than wide, like a book page or an upright phone.

  • Landscape is wider than tall, like a monitor or phone sideways.

So, the key difference is:

  • Portrait = vertical layout (height > width)

  • Landscape = horizontal layout (width > height)

We reserve the right to adjust your puzzle selection to match the orientation of the image you have chosen.

 

Can I Choose the Artwork or Photo for My Custom Puzzle Design?

Yes, you can upload your own image. You’re the artist—each custom puzzle from a photo is created using the image you provide. If you did not take the picture, please ensure the copyright holder authorizes you to use the selected image.

 

What Image Resolution Is Best for Creating a High-Quality Custom Puzzle?

For best results, upload high-resolution images (at least 300 DPI) that are well-lit and in focus. Images may be in portrait or landscape orientation, but not in a square format. The minimum file size is 1 MB, and the maximum is 10 MB. Accepted file formats are .jpg and .png only. Please avoid screenshots, extreme panoramas, or images from social media. We do not provide image manipulation or correction. You are responsible for image quality and resolution.


Can I Add a Personalized Message or Name to the Custom Puzzle Design?

Yes! You may personalize the puzzle box with a title or message, as well as the creator's name. This makes for a meaningful and unique puzzle gift.


How Many Pieces Can I Select for My Custom Puzzle, and How Difficult Will It Be?

Choose 260 pieces (moderate) or 475 pieces (challenging). Both offer Level 2–3 difficulty and are true personalized puzzles for adults.


Do Your Custom Puzzles Include the Same Whimsical, Artistic Cuts as Your Other Wooden Puzzles?

Yes, each puzzle features whimsical figural pieces—playful shapes reflecting the theme of your image—while maintaining Nautilus’ signature artistic style.


How Long Does It Take to Create and Ship a Personalized Wooden Puzzle?

Custom puzzles are cut to order and typically require 7-10 business days for production. If you order both a regular and a custom puzzle together, the regular puzzle may be held until the custom puzzle is ready to ship. If you prefer to receive the regular puzzle sooner, please place separate orders. Shipping estimates will be provided at checkout.


Will I See a Preview of My Custom Puzzle Before It’s Made?

Yes, you will see a preview of your image when you upload it to the website, and you can crop it and center it to fit the finished puzzle specifications.


What Makes a Good Picture For a Custom Puzzle?

Consider your image chopped up into 250 - 475 puzzle pieces. Is there a good range of colors? Are there different textures and patterns? Too much blue sky or foliage can make for especially frustrating puzzles. As can photos where the subject is too far in the distance, or the people are not centered. Avoid large white areas, as too much plain white area makes the cut lines stand out and detracts from the puzzle image. The best custom puzzles feature a range of colors and textures, a balanced composition, and engaging subject matter.


Can I Get a Custom Puzzle in an Irregular Shape?

All custom puzzles are produced in a rectangular shape—portrait or landscape—matching the aspect ratio of your submitted image. Square, irregularly shaped, and bordered puzzles are not available.


Can I Request Custom Pieces/Whimsy Shapes?

Please select a die-cut design from our custom range that most closely matches the theme or intended message of your image. We are unable to accept requests for custom whimsy shapes. 


Can I Reorder a Custom Puzzle?

If you purchase additional copies of the same size and image, you can save on multiple copies. Use the codes on the product page to save 10% on two or more items, or 25% on ten or more of the same image. The discount will be applied at checkout when you use the code. If you wish to order more copies at a later date, we can still apply the discount. Please contact us at help@nautiluspuzzles.com.


Can I Return a Custom Puzzle?

Unfortunately, we cannot accept returns for custom puzzles, as they are made specifically to order. Please check your image carefully using the crop and edit tool before adding your custom puzzle to your cart.

 

Do You Provide Replacement Pieces for Missing Pieces For Custom Puzzles?

We cannot provide replacement pieces for custom puzzles, as each is unique.


Where Are Nautilus Puzzles Made?

All Nautilus Puzzles are made in the USA at our warehouse in sunny, central California.