Jessa’s Puzzle Story: 

Jessa (she/her) lives in Washington state where she is a full-time homeschool Mom for her three kids as well as an artist, social media manager, and puzzle content creator. She has puzzled her whole life, but only started competing right before the 2024 USA Jigsaw Nationals. Jessa uses puzzling as a form of therapy, as it offers a sense of calm when things are chaotic around her. She loves the challenge of finding pieces and figuring out how they fit together, making a complete picture. 

Jessa is an active member of the puzzling community by participating in local events, regularly attending USA Jigsaw Nationals, and spending time on Puzzlegram each day. She enjoys staying engaged and caught up on all the latest puzzle news. She and her good friend Joyce Y. have a puzzle merchandise shop called Puzzworthy that features unique puzzle swag perfect for taking to events, lounging in at home, or gifting to fellow puzzlers. 

Watch for Jessa at the 2026 USA Jigsaw Nationals in Atlanta, where she will be competing in Individuals, in Pairs with Kelly W. as “Oh My Lanta,” and in Teams with Alice R., Hannah S., and Kelly B. as “Jiggernauts.”

Q&A Time:

What is your best advice for someone who wants to improve their speed puzzling abilities?

“Start small (100-300 pieces) and don't be afraid to repeat the same puzzle over and over to get an idea of the kind of pace you want to have. For me the biggest hurdle is my mental game, so having positive affirmations or reminders to speak to yourself while puzzling is key. What works for some people may not work for you, so be kind and patient with yourself as you figure out what gets you in the speed puzzling groove!”

Do you have a favorite brand, type, or style of puzzle?

“I am most drawn to illustrations that feature a soft but colorful palette, with a whimsical and dreamy scene. Trevell is my absolute favorite brand, as well as brands like Elena Essex, Wentworth, and Spaghetti Tree.”

Do you have a cherished or unforgettable puzzle-related memory?

“I would say one of the top memories that I will never forget is taking 2nd place in the team finals at the 2025 USA Jigsaw Nationals with my team the Jiggernauts (Alice R., Hannah S., and Kelly B.). We had never puzzled together before and only had a little time to practice before the competition. It was so fun to work as a team and figure it all out as we went. When the final piece snapped in, we couldn’t believe we had managed to squeeze into 2nd place! I loved puzzling with these three and truly felt like our warm and positive chemistry carried us through! I cherish all the friendships I have made since being a part of the puzzle community!”

What is the puzzle community like in your area?

“In my town, we do have a group of people that love to meet at least once a month to do a puzzle swap. But as far as larger gatherings or speed puzzle events I need to make the drive up north to Seattle if I want to participate in those.”

What was it like to have a piece of art you created turned into a puzzle?

“It was a dream come true and I’m still so honored to have had the opportunity, especially because it ties so many of my interests together. I loved getting to immerse myself into the art and imagine what it would be like to puzzle the image. It was a bit of a process getting all the details placed, in order to honor the subject but also create something that people would want to puzzle, whether they are a seasoned puzzler or not. The overall experience was a delight and I look forward to creating more puzzle illustrations in the future!”

Tell us a bit about your puzzling teammates.

“I have been lucky enough to have had some of the most wonderful teammates to compete with. Hannah S. was my first pairs partner and I love how enthusiastic and supportive she is as a teammate and friend. Alice R. is someone with whom I have bonded with the last few years and who always makes me laugh. And I feel beyond honored to be pairing with Kelly W. this year who has made us all proud on both the national and world stages! I have work cut out for me to keep up with these fantastic puzzlers! 

I’ve also had the gift of puzzling many times with my fellow Washington residents, the Roiter sisters, who have become like family to me. They were some of the first people to welcome me into the community and make me feel at home. I am so grateful for the gift they are to us all! 

There are so many more people I could mention. The puzzle community has some of the kindest, most caring souls, who have a genuine love for puzzling and fellow puzzlers. The love and acceptance from everyone has drawn me in and is the main reason why I keep coming back to these events. I feel lucky to be a part of such a wonderful community.”

Connect:

Jessa can be found on Instagram: @jigsawjessa

Puzzle merch shop: @puzzworthy