We use a gigantic old bulletin board we found at the thrift store as our surface so when not in use it can slide behind a door. Makes a great temporary wall behind me for webcam interviews as well. I don't know that I ever have a surface big enough for puzzles without it.I actually didn't start until about 3 months ago, I had never liked puzzling until I bought one on a whim and fell in love! I've done 2 750 piece and 2 1000 piece since then. I want to do a 1500 piece but my desk is already too small for the 1000 piece (I have to go one half then set it to the side and finish the other half)
Half Priced Books, if you have one near you, is great for puzzles as well.My grandmother was a puzzle addict and would routinely visit Goodwill in search of them for like .50. I didn't think anything of it until I tried to buy her a puzzle online for Christmas. Wow they are expensive!