Cardboard changes everything
In the early twentieth century, die‑cut cardboard dramatically lowered costs and weight, making puzzles accessible to a far broader public. Manufacturers could stamp thousands of identical pieces per sheet, ensuring consistent fit and faster production. Department stores staged puzzle tables; magazines featured weekly images; families swapped boxes with neighbours.
Ups and downs, then a boom
Economic cycles influenced puzzle popularity. During lean years, a single box offered hours of repeatable entertainment at a modest price. Publishers experimented with novelty formats—double‑sided prints, silhouette borders, and mystery images that revealed themselves only when assembled.
Design language takes shape
By mid‑century, the modern visual grammar of puzzles had emerged: interlocking pieces with standardized knobs, edge‑first strategies, and artwork optimized for solvability (clear color areas, distinct textures, readable text). Specialized brands cultivated reputations for tight cuts and low puzzle dust, while artists collaborated on limited editions.