Write an article based on this "Choose a picture or design. Select a puzzle backing. Assemble your tools. Attach your image to your backing. Lacquer your image."
You can print a photograph to use for your puzzle image, draw or create your own, or even use a card, poster, or any other printed image. For a photograph, choose a high-resolution image, and size it based on how large you want your puzzle to be. Print it off or have it developed at a photo lab according to your specifications. For a hand-drawn puzzle image, choose a high-quality paper that’s the size you want your puzzle to be. Using your favorite medium, draw or paint your image directly onto the paper. You can also create your own puzzle image on a computer, and then print it off like a photograph. Plywood is more durable and traditional, but this will only work if you have a saw at your disposal and are confident in your skill with that tool. Cutting out a puzzle is delicate work and requires experience. You can also use a good quality cardboard to back your puzzle. This will be much easier to work with, and can be cut with scissors. Craft-quality cardboard can be found at most craft stores.  The ideal thickness for a puzzle backing, be it cardboard or plywood, is one-eighth inch (0.3 cm).  Look for a piece of backing that’s as close to the size of your puzzle image as possible to avoid waste. You can use the cardboard from on old box to back your puzzle, but make sure it’s clean, undamaged, and flat. Thin cardboard like that from a cereal box will work for a simple puzzle, but thicker cardboard is preferable. Aside from the image and your puzzle backing, you will also need glue, spray lacquer, a ruler, and a pencil. For a cardboard-backed puzzle, you will need sharp scissors or a hobby knife. For a wood-backed puzzle, you will need either a coping saw (a hand saw used for intricate shapes) or a scroll saw, an electric or pedal-operated saw that’s good for intricate curves.  Liquid craft glue or spray glue will work best for your puzzle because it’s multi-purpose and won’t damage photographs. If you are using a photograph for your puzzle image, be sure to find lacquer that’s safe for it. Place your backing on a sheet of wax or parchment paper to protect the surface underneath. Place it good side down. Spray or cover the surface of the backing with glue and spread it around so there’s an even coat all over it. Place your picture onto the backing. Use your fingers to slide it around so it’s centered and straight. With a roller or old credit card, apply even pressure to the picture to help the glue adhere and remove bubbles. Let the glue dry. Glues have different drying times, but give your puzzle several hours to set if possible. Take your puzzle outside or to a well-ventilated area. Place it back on the parchment or wax paper. Spray an even coat of lacquer over the image. Check the can for drying time, and allow it to dry.