Frequently Asked Questions

Thanks for asking! We meet in person once a month to trade puzzles. Find the schedule here. Bring puzzles you've finished and take home something new to put together. You'll have the community stash of about 50 puzzles to choose from as well as any puzzles that people bring in. Swaps are also a chance to share stories about your puzzle experience, everything from the extra-challenging ordeals to the "not as hard as it looked" puzzles and the strategies that helped you get that last piece in.

Yes! All swaps and puzzles are free. We do not charge for puzzles or for attending a swap.

No! You are welcome to take puzzles even if you haven't brought some. We do not count how many puzzles you bring or how many you take. You can bring five and take one. Or feel free to bring two and take eight. We are a puzzle swap community which thrives on the generosity of members.

Yes! You are welcome to bring and take as many puzzles as you would like. We do not count.

Nope - the puzzle is yours. Some people return puzzles to the swap, others gift them to their friends or family, and some members donate them to other groups. 

Yes! It is ok if you don't finish a puzzle. There are enough things in life that you "have" to do - puzzles are not one of them. They are meant to be a source of enjoyment and leisure. 

Missing pieces are part of life and it's ok if a puzzle is missing a few. Thoughtful puzzle swap members often include a note to indicate how many pieces are missing and where the missing piece is located. There is a jar of lost and found pieces which travels with each swap so feel free to check it for pieces you are missing or add in spare pieces you have found.

Yes! Everyone is welcome and we're happy to have new members. They can sign up for the group here.

No purchases are required and puzzles in the swap are always free, but we love to show support for the venues that host our group. Both our Oakland and Alameda swaps meet at small businesses and purchasing food and beverages helps them stay in business. It also gives you something to enjoy while you swap!

That's ok! You are welcome to attend swaps as often as you'd like. Some members come monthly and others drop in once a year. You are welcome anytime!