Ravensburger puzzle mats

Looking for a Ravensburger puzzle mat and want to know exactly which one to buy? Ravensburger has two roll-up puzzle mats in their range, both from the Roll your Puzzle!-series:

On this page, I'll discuss both models in detail, based on their product specifications and buyer experiences. I'll compare the sizes, explain which puzzles fit on which mat, and give you an honest overview of the pros and cons you can expect as a buyer. This way, you can make an informed decision without any surprises later.

🏆Which Ravensburger puzzle mat should you choose?

Would you like to learn more about which size puzzle mat is best for you and suits your puzzle preferences? Then also check out the page Which size puzzle mat should I choose?

Your situationRoll your Puzzle up to 1500 piecesRoll your Puzzle XXL up to 3000 pieces
You puzzle with 500 pieces✔ Excellent ChoiceWorks too, but unnecessarily large
You are puzzling 1000 piece puzzles and it is okay if individual pieces do not all fit on the mat✔ Good enoughWorks too
You puzzle 1000 piece puzzles and want all the loose pieces to fit on the mat✘ Too small✔ Best choice
You puzzle with 1500 pieces⚠ Puzzle fits, but little room for loose pieces✔ Best choice
You puzzle with 2000 or 3000 pieces✘ Does not fit✔ Only option
You do puzzles regularly (more than 3 times a month)⚠ Consider Neoprene Puzzle Mat⚠ Consider Neoprene Puzzle Mat
You have pets (cats/dogs)⚠ Felt attracts hair⚠ Felt attracts hair

My advice:
Do you mainly do 1000-piece puzzles and want to be able to leave all the individual puzzle pieces on the mat? Then choose the Ravensburger Roll your Puzzle XXL for 3000 pieces – that gives you more space. Are you puzzling 1000 pieces and are you happy to put away individual pieces separately? Then the Roll your Puzzle XXL for 1500 pieces sufficient. But if you really want maximum comfort, I recommend you also take a look at a neoprene puzzle mat, because the Ravensburger mats are made of felt and therefore have different properties. More information at 'Which size puzzle mat should I choose?'. Do you want Neoprene (black rubber? Then take a look at the PuzzlUp neoprene puzzle mats

What are the features of Ravensburger puzzle mats?

Before I discuss the individual models, it's good to understand exactly what a Ravensburger puzzle mat is made of and how it differs from other brands. Ravensburger puzzle mats are made of plastic felt – a soft, slightly rough fabric that holds the puzzle pieces in place well, but sometimes slides a little less smoothly than on a smoother material like neoprene. This is both an advantage and a disadvantage: the rough side keeps pieces in place, but sliding them requires a bit more force. If you read reviews of Ravensburger puzzle mats on Bol.com, you'll always see this theme.

Two sides: rough and smooth
The Ravensburger puzzle mats have two sides, each with its own function. The non-slip side is meant to be placed on the table – it prevents the mat from sliding off the table while puzzling. The smooth side is meant to hold the puzzle. This is a logical system, but you should be aware of it: if you accidentally place the mat the wrong way around, it will make puzzling and rolling up much more difficult. This is stated in the instructions on the box, but in practice, it often leads to confusion among new users.

Plastic roll-up tube
Both Ravensburger models come with a plastic pipe that you have to slide together yourself. This tube consists of several parts that you join together to form the final roll-up tube. This sounds more complicated than it is – the tube only fits together one way – but in practice it still leads to frustration for some people. The advantage is that the tube can be taken apart and then stored compactly in the box between your puzzles. With the XXL version (3000 pieces), the roll is inflatable instead of a fixed plastic tube, which gives a different user experience.

Yellow packaging
Ravensburger puzzle mats come in the brand's signature yellow packaging. It's compact, but it also means the felt mat is folded in the box. This is important: because the mat is packaged folded, there may be wrinkles and creases in the material when you first unpack it. Most buyers resolve this. by ironing the puzzle mat briefly with a tea towel in between at a low temperature, or simply leave it open for a while before you start puzzling.

Cheaper price than neoprene
The big advantage of the Ravensburger puzzle mats compared to brands like PuzzlUp is the price. The 1500 version costs around €15, the XXL version around €22. That's considerably cheaper than neoprene (black rubber) puzzle matn, which can easily cost €50 or more. For those who puzzle occasionally or are looking for their first puzzle mat, a Ravensburger puzzle mat is a great option.


1. Ravensburger Roll your Puzzle up to 1500 pieces – Compact size

About this puzzle mat

The Ravensburger Roll Your Puzzle, for puzzles up to 1500 pieces, is the smallest model in the Ravensburger range. It's a practical, roll-up storage system. You roll the puzzle mat with your puzzle around a tube, and you close it with the included ties. The mat is made of black plastic felt and has a surface wide enough for puzzles up to 1500 pieces. The mat is designed to be used with the included plastic roll-up tube, and the included elastic ties keep the rolled-up mat together.

Dimensions and which puzzles fit on it

This mat has a size of 66 × 110 cm and weighs 0,80 kg including packaging. A 500-piece puzzle – which measures 49 by 35 centimeters on average (Check the dimensions of all puzzles here) – fits comfortably on the mat. A 1000-piece puzzle, which typically measures 68 by 49 centimeters, will also fit on the mat, although there won't be much room on the sides for loose pieces. In this case, you'll also need to place many other loose puzzle pieces next to your puzzle mat. And then put them back in the box when you roll up the puzzle mat. A 1500-piece puzzle, which measures approximately 90 by 60 centimeters, fits perfectly on the mat – but then there won't be room for all the loose pieces next to the puzzle. So keep in mind that when you roll up, you'll need to put all the loose pieces back in the box first, and then sort them again during the next puzzle session. Want to know more? Then read 'Which puzzle mat should I choose?n'.

Number of piecesPuzzle dimensionsPuzzle mat dimensionsFits on the mat?
500 pieces49 × 35 cm110 × 66 cmJa
1000 pieces68 × 49 cm110 × 66 cmJa
1500 pieces90 × 60 cm110 × 66 cmJa
2000 pieces98 × 68 cm110 × 66 cmNo (DOES NOT FIT)
3000 pieces122 × 85 cm110 × 66 cmNo (DOES NOT FIT)

The plastic roll-up tube – how does it work?

In the video below you can see how to assemble this plastic roll-up tube:

The tube that comes with this mat is a plastic tube that you have to assemble yourself from several separate parts. In reviews on Bol.com This is sometimes perceived as complicated, but in practice, the tube can only be assembled one way: the pointed parts fit into the perforated parts, after which you twist the four halves together. Once assembled, the tube is sturdy and stable. A practical advantage is that the tube can also be taken apart again, so it fits compactly in the box and is easy to store next to your puzzles. This is a difference from the foam tube from PuzzlUp, which is always in one piece but also takes up more space.

Buyer experiences

Op Bol.com This mat has an average rating of 3,7 stars based on 49 reviews. That's an average rating, and experiences vary widely. Satisfied buyers call the mat handy, functional, and easy to use – especially appreciated is the ability to roll up your puzzle in between without having to put everything away. Less satisfied buyers generally point out two issues: the mat is too rough on the puzzle side, making it harder for pieces to slide, and rolling it up isn't always easy because the puzzle pieces shift or even fall apart. This last problem has everything to do with the side of the mat used: the smooth side should be facing up (the puzzle side), the rough side on the table. If you use the mat the other way around, pieces will stick to the felt when rolling up. Another tip several buyers give: lay the mat flat before use or lightly iron it with a tea towel between the two to smooth out the wrinkles from the packaging before you start.

Pros and cons

Very affordable – often under €16 at Bol.com.
Suitable for puzzles of 500, 1000 and 1500 pieces.
Plastic tube is compact for storage: it falls apart and fits in the box.
Two sides: rough (bottom) and smooth (puzzle side) – logical system.
CE certified and sold by a trusted brand.
Felt mat is delivered folded – creases and bumps may be present upon first use.
Rolling takes practice: pieces may slide or come loose if you don't know the technique yet.
Tube needs to be assembled by yourself – requires some explanation, even if it is a one-time thing.
With 1000 pieces, not all the loose pieces will fit on the mat at once – you will need to put them away separately before rolling them up.
Felt attracts dust and pet hair – harder to keep clean than neoprene.

Specifications

CharacteristicSpecification
BrandRavensburger
NameRoll your Puzzle!
Mat size110 × 66 cm
Suitable forPuzzles from 300 to 1500 pieces
Material matPlastic felt
Color matteBlack
Type of roll-up tubePlastic pipe (multi-piece pipe, assemble yourself)
closing strapsElastic closure bands (supplied separately)
Package weight0,80 kg
Package dimensions378 × 278 × 58 mm
CE markYes (visible)
EAN4005556179565

2. Ravensburger Roll your Puzzle XXL up to 3000 pieces – Large format

About this puzzle mat

In the video below an 'unboxing':

The Ravensburger Roll your Puzzle XXL is the big brother of the 1500 version and offers space for puzzles from 1000 to 3000 pieces. This is a large size puzzle mat that is suitable for larger puzzles and for puzzlers who need more work space. The mat comes in the recognizable yellow Ravensburger packaging, just like the 1500 version. The biggest difference with the smaller version is the roll-up tube: with the XXL this is not a plastic tube but a inflatable rollerThis is a deliberate choice by Ravensburger, because an inflatable roller works better for larger dimensions than a rigid plastic tube – it gives a little when rolled up, reducing the chance of the puzzle falling apart.

Dimensions and which puzzles fit on it

This mat has a size of 150 × 100 cmThat's a hefty size—larger than most standard puzzle mats on the market—and you'll notice that immediately when you roll it out on the table. A 1000-piece puzzle, which typically measures 68 by 49 centimeters (Check the dimensions of all puzzles here), fits comfortably on the mat. Plus, there's plenty of room left over for all the loose puzzle pieces to lie next to it—a big plus if you don't want to have to put them back in the box before rolling them up. A 1500-piece puzzle (approximately 90 by 60 cm) and a 2000-piece puzzle (approximately 98 by 75 cm) also fit comfortably on the mat. A 3000-piece puzzle, which typically measures about 122 by 85 centimeters, will also fit on the mat, though there will be less room around the edges for loose pieces. Puzzles over 3000 pieces will not fit.

Number of Puzzle PiecesPuzzle fits on puzzle mat?Do all the puzzle pieces fit on the puzzle mat?
500 PiecesJaJa
1000 PiecesJaJa
1500 PiecesJaJa
2000 PiecesJaNo, not all, many
3000 PiecesJaNo, not all of them

The inflatable roller tube – a different system

A key feature of the XXL version is the included inflatable roller. This is a different system than what most puzzlers are used to from other mats or the smaller Ravensburger version. The inflatable roller works like this: you inflate it until it’s firm enough to roll the mat around, then wrap the puzzle mat tightly around the roller and secure it with the included elastic straps. A big advantage is that the roller gives way as you roll up, making the puzzle less likely to be damaged. One drawback mentioned in reviews: the roller can be tricky to inflate (it requires significant air pressure), and due to its inflatable nature, the roller is larger and stores less compactly than the plastic tube of the 1500 version. Buyers who are bothered by this advise finding an alternative method – such as using a thick, stiff roller from their own store.

Buyer experiences

Positive experiences from buyers include the mat's size and the ease of storing large puzzles. Buyers who spend several weeks working on a 2000- or 3000-piece puzzle are happy that they can roll up the mat and clear the table. Critical reviews point out a few recurring issues: the felt material attracts hair and dust, puzzle pieces sometimes stick to the felt when rolled out, causing pieces to come loose, and the inflatable roller doesn't work as well as expected for some buyers. Furthermore, some buyers are disappointed that the mat lacks markings to indicate where to place a puzzle of a certain size. Here too, the tip applies: make sure you place the smooth side up (puzzle side), and practice rolling it up before placing the puzzle inside.

Pros and cons

Large size – suitable for puzzles up to 3000 pieces.
Affordable – around €22, much cheaper than neoprene alternatives.
Inflatable roller gives way when rolled up – less chance of damaging the puzzle.
Excellent for puzzlers who make large puzzles and want to have the table clear in between.
From the well-known and reliable brand Ravensburger.
Inflatable roller can be difficult to use and stores less compactly than a solid plastic tube.
Felt attracts dust, hair and dirt – something to consider if you have pets in the house.
Felt mat has creases from the packaging – ironing or lying out required before use.
No white marking lines on the mat for puzzle sizes.
Puzzle pieces can come loose when rolling out – requires practice and proper technique.

Specifications

CharacteristicSpecification
BrandRavensburger
NameRoll your Puzzle! XXL
Mat size100 × 150 cm
Suitable forPuzzles from 1000 to 3000 pieces
Material matMaterial mat
Color matteBlack
Type of roll-up tubeInflatable roller
closing strapsElastic closure bands (supplied separately)
CE markJa
EAN4005556179572

Comparison of both Ravensburger puzzle mats


Now that you've read about both models, it's helpful to compare them side by side. The two Ravensburger puzzle mats have the same basic construction—felt, a roll-up tube, elastic closure straps—but differ in a few crucial ways that could be decisive for you.

CharacteristicRoll your Puzzle up to 1500 piecesRoll your Puzzle XXL up to 3000 pieces
Mat size66 × 110 cm100 × 150 cm
Max. puzzle size1500 pieces3000 pieces
All the loose pieces of the 1000 puzzle on it?NoJa
Material matPlastic felt (black)Plastic felt (black)
Type of roll-up tubePlastic pipe (assemble yourself)Inflatable roller
closing strapsElastic bands (loose)Elastic bands (loose)
Store the tube compactlyYes, can be taken apartLess compact
Package weight0,80 kg0,92 kg
EAN40055561795654005556179572
Price (global)± € 15± € 22
Best forOccasional puzzler, small table, budgetRegular puzzler, large puzzles, need more puzzle space
Buy Now? Buy at Bol.com Buy at Bol.com

My advice: The choice between the two models is actually simple: how big are the puzzles you make? If you almost always puzzle 1000 or 1500 pieces, then the 1500 version is a good and inexpensive choice. Do you regularly make larger puzzles of 2000 or 3000 pieces, or do you want more workspace around your puzzle with 1000 pieces? Then choose the XXL. Keep in mind that both versions have a felt mat are, with the associated properties in terms of sliding pieces, folding and maintenance.


Ravensburger puzzle mats versus other puzzle mats

A question I get asked often is: are Ravensburger puzzle mats better or worse than those of Jumbo of PuzzleUpBelow I've listed the most important differences for you.

Ravensburger vs. Jumbo (felt vs. felt)
Ravensburger and Jumbo puzzle mats are in the same price range and are both made of feltThe biggest difference is in the roll-up tube: Jumbo uses a three-piece cardboard tube that you slide together yourself, while Ravensburger offers a plastic tube (1500 version) or an inflatable roller (XXL version). The Jumbo cardboard tube is solid but can wear out or become damaged with frequent use. Ravensburger's plastic tube is sturdier and has a longer lifespan. The felt material of both brands is similar: a nice soft puzzle surface, but susceptible to dust, hair, and wrinkles. Price-wise, both brands are comparable.

Ravensburger vs. PuzzlUp (felt vs. neoprene (black rubber))
A general video – difference between green felt and black rubber:

Here the difference is much bigger. A PuzzlUp puzzle mat is made of neoprene and polyester, while the Ravensburger mat is made of plastic felt (green felt). Neoprene Always lies flat (no wrinkles), is easier to clean with a damp cloth, has a more non-slip backing, and puzzle pieces slide across it more smoothly. The Ravensburger puzzle mat is considerably cheaper: €15-€22 versus €48-€80 for a PuzzlUp. If you don't puzzle often (once a month or less) or are looking for your first puzzle mat, a Ravensburger is a great choice. Do you puzzle weekly, have pets, or want minimal maintenance? Then a neoprene puzzle mat like PuzzlUp is a better choice.

My advice: Ravensburger puzzle mats are a good choice for occasional puzzlers looking for a more affordable, functional solution from a reliable brand. You're paying for quality that matches the price – and that's perfectly fair. If you want more comfort, a flatter and smoother puzzle mat, and less maintenance, the more expensive black rubber (neoprene) alternatives are clearly a better choice.


Frequently asked questions about Ravensburger puzzle mats

Which Ravensburger puzzle mat is best for a 1000-piece puzzle?

If you want all of the loose puzzle pieces to be on the mat at the same time — so you can roll everything up at once without having to put any pieces back in the box — then the Ravensburger Roll your Puzzle XXL 3000-piece mat is by far the best choice. This 150 × 100 cm mat offers ample space for both the puzzle itself and all of the loose pieces around it. If you don’t mind keeping loose pieces separate in containers or in the box while you puzzle, the smaller 1500 version is also a fine and more affordable choice at €15. However, the difference in ease of use is significant: with the XXL, you’ll never have to put away or re-sort loose pieces again the next time you puzzle — saving you time and hassle every time.

Why does my Ravensburger puzzle mat have creases and bumps when I unpack it?

Ravensburger puzzle mats are packaged folded in their recognizable yellow box. During transport and storage, folds and slight bumps may appear in the felt material. This is not a manufacturing defect and is not a sign of damage—it is simply a consequence of the way the mat is packaged. The easiest solution is to let the mat lie flat on a flat surface for a while before use, allowing the wrinkles to gradually smooth out on their own. For a quicker solution, you can also gently iron the mat on a low temperature with a dry tea towel between it as a protective layer. Never use an iron directly on the felt and avoid high heat settings, as this can damage the material. Most bumps will even out after a few uses.

Which side of the Ravensburger puzzle mat should be facing up?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions about the Ravensburger puzzle mat, and also one of the most common usage errors. The mat has two sides: a smooth side and a non-slip side. The non-slip side is meant to be placed on a table—it prevents the mat from sliding off the table while you're puzzling. The smooth side is meant to be a puzzle surface—you place your puzzle on it, and the pieces will slide much more smoothly. If you accidentally place the mat upside down, you'll notice that puzzle pieces will stick to the felt as you roll it up, damaging or unraveling the puzzle. So always check which side is facing up before you start. This is clearly indicated on the packaging and in the instructions.

How do I assemble the plastic roll-up tube of the Ravensburger puzzle mat?

The plastic tube of the 1500 version consists of several separate parts and you have to assemble it yourself. Although this looks complicated at first, it's not that difficult in practice: the tube can only be assembled one way. The pieces with points fit into the pieces with holes—four halves on each side—and then you simply twist them together until they click into place, making the tube sturdy. Once assembled, the tube is stable enough to roll the mat tightly around it. After use, you can also take the tube apart again, so it fits compactly in the box next to your puzzles. A bonus tip: practice assembling the tube before using it for the first time on a real puzzle, so you're already familiar with the process when it really matters.

How do I prevent puzzle pieces from coming loose when rolling up the Ravensburger puzzle mat?

Puzzle pieces coming loose while rolling up is a common complaint in reviews of felt puzzle mats in general, including the Ravensburger versions. There are a few tips that will largely prevent this problem. First, always make sure the smooth side is facing up as the puzzle surface—this is the most common mistake. Second, roll the mat slowly and evenly with constant, firm pressure to prevent the puzzle from shifting. Third, push any loose puzzle pieces a few centimeters back from the edge of the mat before rolling—pieces lying on the edge are almost certain to fall out when rolling. And finally, check that the puzzle pieces are firmly connected before rolling. Loose or partially connected pieces will always come out faster than pieces that fit snugly.

What is the difference between the Ravensburger 1500 and the Ravensburger XXL 3000?

There are four main differences between the two models. Firstly, the size: the 1500 version measures 66 × 110 cm, the XXL version 150 × 100 cm — the XXL is therefore considerably larger. Secondly, the roller tube: the 1500 version has a plastic tube that you slide together yourself, the XXL version has an inflatable roller. Thirdly, the puzzle capacity: the 1500 version is suitable for puzzles up to 1500 pieces, the XXL up to 3000 pieces. And fourthly, the price: the 1500 version costs around €15, the XXL around €22. For those who make 1000-piece puzzles and want all the loose pieces to fit on the mat, the XXL is the only logical choice. For those who do puzzles occasionally and are looking for a compact and inexpensive system, the 1500 version will suffice.

Are Ravensburger puzzle mats suitable if you have cats or dogs?

This is something pet owners should definitely consider. The felt material of Ravensburger puzzle mats attracts dust, hair, and other dirt. Cat and dog hair sticks relatively easily to the felt fibers, making the mat dirty quickly and making the puzzle surface feel less comfortable. You can remove hair with a lint roller or a slightly damp cloth, but it requires more maintenance than a neoprene surface, which is much less likely to stick and can simply be wiped away. Do you have multiple pets, or do they regularly spend time in the room where you puzzle? Then a neoprene puzzle mat like the one from PuzzlUp is a more pleasant and easier-to-maintain choice in the long run. The lower purchase price of Ravensburger will quickly outweigh the extra maintenance.

How does the Ravensburger Roll your Puzzle XXL inflatable roller work?

The Ravensburger Roll your Puzzle XXL doesn't come with a fixed plastic tube, but with an inflatable roller—similar to a sturdy inflatable tube. You first inflate the roller until it's sufficiently stiff, then roll the puzzle mat tightly around it and secure it with the included elastic bands. The advantage of an inflatable roller is that it has some give when rolled up, making the puzzle less likely to be damaged than with a completely rigid tube. A disadvantage frequently reported by buyers is that the roller requires considerable air pressure to be sturdy enough, which isn't easy for everyone. Furthermore, the inflatable roller is larger and less compact to store than a plastic tube that you can take apart. Buyers who find this a drawback sometimes use an alternative rigid roller from their own store.

Is a Ravensburger puzzle mat better than a Jumbo puzzle mat?

Ravensburger and Jumbo puzzle mats are in the same price range and are both made of felt, so they are comparable in many ways. The biggest practical difference is the roll-up tube. Jumbo supplies a three-piece cardboard tube that you slide together yourself. This tube is sturdy for normal use, but can wear out or become damaged over time with frequent sliding. Ravensburger supplies a sturdier and more durable plastic tube for the 1500 version, and an inflatable roller for the XXL version. In terms of felt material and puzzle experience, both brands are similar: pleasantly soft, but prone to wrinkles, dust, and hair. The choice between the two brands therefore depends less on the difference in quality and more on which tube system you prefer.

Where can I buy a Ravensburger puzzle mat and what is the best price?

Ravensburger puzzle mats are widely available, both online and in brick-and-mortar stores. The most popular supplier is Bol.com, where both versions are in stock, delivered quickly, and regularly offer discounts. The 1500 version usually costs around €15 at Bol.com, and the XXL version around €22. Both products fall well below the free shipping threshold at Bol.com, so it's best to combine them with another order. Besides Bol.com, the mats can also be found at toy stores, hobby shops, and sometimes large supermarkets. This page contains direct links to the current product pages at Bol.com, so you can quickly click through and see the most current price.


Gerben van Wijngaarden – Puzzle Expert and founder of Puzzel-1000-Stukjes.nl

About the author – Gerben van Wijngaarden

Gerben van Wijngaarden is the founder of Puzzle-1000-Pieces.nl and has been puzzling intensively since 2013. He has more than 200+ Jan van Haasteren puzzles extensively reviewed, maintains a database with 8000+ puzzles and test puzzle mats and accessories in practice.


✔ Experience & Expertise

  • 10+ years of practical experience with puzzles (500–5000 pieces)
  • 200+ comprehensive puzzle reviews
  • 1500+ YouTube videos about puzzles
  • Specialist in rare Jan van Haasteren puzzles
  • Active tester of puzzle mats, puzzle folders and accessories

🔬 How I test

  • Several weeks of practical use
  • Rolling puzzles up and down repeatedly
  • Felt vs Neoprene Comparison
  • Testing in real living environments
  • Compare budget vs premium models

His work and analyses are followed by an active puzzle community and discussed within the Jan van Haasteren collecting world. Read his full background here