There are puzzles that are almost visual meditations. The Clementoni 1000-piece Mordillo A Cura falls into this category: an illustration full of life, humor, and small details that are revealed little by little, piece by piece. It's the kind of challenge that transforms an afternoon into something memorable, alone or in good company.
Mordillo: humor without words, plays with stories.
Guillermo Mordillo became known for his round characters, prominent noses, and scenes packed with small parallel stories. Almost always without dialogue. The laughter comes from the drawing, the absurdity, the tenderness.
This visual language shines in a 1000-piece puzzle. The density of micro-situations, the segmented color palettes, and the repeated patterns create an experience that oscillates between play and contemplation. In The Cure, the energy of "search" and "discovery" fits naturally with the gesture of trying a new piece.
There's always one more detail that went unnoticed. And that feeling keeps motivation high until the very last adjustment.
What Clementoni does particularly well
The Italian brand has a consistent reputation among those who regularly assemble jigsaw puzzles. The secret lies not in a single point, but in a set of manufacturing choices that the community values.
Dense cardboard, precision cutting, and high-definition printing form the basis. The pieces don't "dance" on the table, have no excess chips, and offer a clean and secure fit. The matte finish reduces reflections and aids in color readability under artificial light.
There is also a focus on sustainability, using recycled materials and processes designed to reduce waste. None of this seems like marketing when you're assembling it: you can see it in your hands, in the clarity of Mordillo's art and in the absence of frustration with pieces that look the same but aren't.
As for the format, the final panel is the standard size for the house: approximately 69 x 50 cm. A generous size to highlight the illustration on the wall without making it difficult to frame.
The assembly experience
A Mordillo is a small town in turmoil. This translates into an editing style that alternates between fast-paced moments and more demanding sections. Areas of solid color and recognizable elements help to gain traction. Meanwhile, repeated patterns draw attention to the contours of the cut.
The typical progression begins with the obvious frame and chromatic patches. Then come the micro-stories. A speech bubble here, a group of characters there, a recurring detail that serves as an anchor. Before we know it, half the puzzle is complete.
For an experienced editor, the overall time can vary from 6 to 12 hours, spread over several days. For beginners, it's worth approaching it like a series: finishing one section per session and saving the rest for later. The pleasure lies in both the pace and the final result.
Quick guide to getting started on the right foot.
There are methods that save time and avoid frustration. These steps work well with this particular puzzle, taking advantage of the visual richness of Mordillo's art.
- Space and light : Prepare a clean, rigid surface with good lighting. A puzzle base with a lid helps save your progress.
- Initial sorting : Separate corner and edge pieces. On a second pass, group them by dominant colors or striking patterns.
- Reference to the view : Have the image of the box or a large printout nearby. Mordillo hides jokes that are missed at a quick glance.
- Islands of detail : Assemble isolated micro-scenes and then join them to the frame. The progress becomes more visible and motivating.
- Pay attention to the cut : When colors are confusing, focus on the shape of the fit. Clementoni's cut is consistent and "speaks" to you.
Specifications and details of the set
Below is a technical summary to help with planning assembly, framing, and space.
| Property | Detail |
|---|---|
| Parts | 1000 |
| Dimensions when assembled | Approximately 69 x 50 cm |
| Artist | Guillermo Mordillo |
| Collection | High Quality Collection |
| Material | High-density recycled cardboard |
| Finish | Anti-reflective matte surface |
| Printing | High definition, vibrant colors |
| Snap-fit | Precision cutting, one piece per position. |
| Recommended age | 14+ |
| Box contents | Bag with parts, reference image. |
| Difficulty level | Medium to demanding |
| Country of manufacture | Italy |
Slight variations may occur between editions. If you are considering framing, measure the mounted panel before purchasing the frame.
Why does this theme work so well on the wall?
"The Cure" is a composition with rhythm. Viewed from a distance, the theme is immediately apparent. Upon closer inspection, the visual gags typical of Mordillo emerge. It's a drawing that rewards various types of viewers, making it excellent for a living room, hallway, or office.
The matte finish helps maintain legibility under side lighting and protects color saturation when photographed. A frame with a thin white passe-partout provides breathing room without stealing focus.
Tips for stress-free gluing and framing.
If the goal is to transform the puzzle into a picture, a simple preparation makes all the difference.
- Test the frame with the assembled puzzle before gluing, to confirm any gaps.
- Use puzzle-specific glue, applying it with a spatula in a thin, even layer.
- Let it dry horizontally on parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Reinforce the backing with a pH-neutral card before placing it in the frame.
- Choose acrylic with UV protection when exposed to a lot of light.
Ergonomics and time management
Assembling a long jigsaw puzzle requires some care for your body. Alternating between sitting and standing, ensuring good lighting on the surface, and taking short breaks reduces eye strain and shoulder tension. A 15-minute hourglass or a timer on your phone can serve as a helpful reminder to get up and stretch your legs.
Regarding pacing, many editors find that sessions of 45 to 90 minutes maximize focus and enjoyment. After that period, the success rate tends to drop and frustration to rise. It's better to stop at the peak and return later with a fresh perspective.
Who is it ideal for?
This edition appeals to a diverse audience. The common factor is a taste for detail and visual humor.
- Fans of illustration and comics
- For those seeking moments of focus away from screens.
- Collectors of designer jigsaw puzzles
- Families who enjoy shared projects
- Personalized gifts for special occasions.
Parts that look alike: how to deal with them
Repeated patterns can be deceiving. When color no longer distinguishes, two tricks become important: the shape of the piece and the type of fit. Clementoni tends to avoid "false positives" in fit, so the correct piece fits firmly and without gaps.
Creating small “corridors” connecting assembled islands also helps to validate hypotheses. In The Cure, these corridors can originate from clear graphic lines or areas of continuous color that cross the illustration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I do if a part is missing? Keep the box and proof of purchase. Check your workspace, bags, and the box itself. If the item is missing, contact Clementoni's customer service. Many series have a replacement service, subject to availability and local policies.
How long does it take on average? It depends on the pace and experience. For most, it's between two long evenings and a week of short sessions. The theme helps maintain focus, which shortens the time compared to other 1000-piece images with large monochromatic areas.
Is there a lot of cardboard dust? In recent batches, dust is minimal. Still, it's worth wiping your hands on a dry towel to remove any initial residue. This keeps the print bed clean and protects the print.
Can it be assembled on a small table? Yes, provided the top is at least 80 x 60 cm and there is room for the sorting trays. A foldable base solves the storage problem between sessions.
Is it a good choice for a gift? Yes. The artist's name, the quality of the craftsmanship, and the humorous illustration make it a memorable gift. Add a matching frame and it's a complete set.
Can I reuse it after gluing? Once glued, it's no longer a functional puzzle. If you plan to reassemble it in the future, use a roll-up mat and avoid gluing. The alternative is to glue it and treat the puzzle as a decorative piece.
Where to buy and what to check
Specialty toy stores, stationery stores with a puzzle section, and online retailers often list Clementoni's Mordillo editions. Before finalizing your purchase, confirm the exact cover image, as the artist's series includes several scenes. Also check the policy regarding missing pieces and the status of the security seals.
If it's a gift edition, a card with assembly tips and the final dimensions of the panel is a simple gesture that enhances the recipient's experience. And if it's for yourself, set the table, prepare a cup of coffee, and enjoy the productive serenity that this puzzle provides.
Some puzzles just stay with you. This is one of them. A well-balanced mix of technique, humor, and design that invites you to stop and build something beautiful with your own hands. One piece at a time.
