Welcome to our Meet the Maker series, where we chat with the incredible artists and creators behind the puzzles you love in your Borrowed Piece subscription boxes. Today, we're thrilled to feature Soon, the creative force behind SOONNESS puzzles—known for their cute, colorful, and joyful designs that bring art and puzzling together in the most delightful way.
What was your "aha!" moment that made you think "I need to be in the puzzle business"?
It actually started unexpectedly. At the end of 2019, my full-time job contract ended—and like many people at that time, I found myself at a crossroads. I knew I wanted to build a life on my own terms as an artist. Until then, art had always been a side project while juggling full-time or part-time jobs. But this time, I decided to go all in.
While brainstorming product ideas that could feature my art in 2020, a friend casually mentioned, "Your art would make a really fun puzzle." That idea immediately stuck. I felt so intrigued by the possibility, and soon after, I released my very first puzzle, Forest Life in January, 2021 (pictured below).
From your early days to now, what's been the biggest plot twist in your company's journey?
Definitely the creation of the PNP (Pick & Preorder) model. In the first year, I faced many challenges—like limited capital for production, the complexity of international shipping, and not wanting to overproduce or create waste. I needed a creative solution that would let me stay focused on the part I loved most: the art.
The PNP model was my answer, and it's been working well so far. But I'm always open to evolving and finding better ways to offer unique puzzles that people love, cherish, and don't just toss away.
When you're hunting for the perfect puzzle image or theme, what makes you go "That's the one!"?
Honestly, art is subjective—but I always lean into what I personally love. The SOONNESS collection really reflects my own taste: cute, colorful, playful, artsy, dreamy, and modern illustrations. I'm especially drawn to artists with a blend of cultural influences—maybe because I have a Korean background but have also lived in the U.S. and Canada. Many of the artists I work with reflect that mix, too.
After nearly five years in this business, I've developed a sense for what makes a fun puzzle—not just visually, but in the experience of putting it together. And if there's one thing I always aim for, it's joy.
What's your puzzle's signature energy? Like, what makes people instantly know it's one of yours?
Signature energy? I think puzzlers would be the best ones to answer that, but here's what I've noticed. People love unboxing SOONNESS puzzles. There's something about opening the simple brown outer box and finding this colorful, artsy puzzle box inside that sparks excitement. We also don't put heavy branding on the puzzle boxes. That way, the spotlight stays on the artwork and the artist. Some people might not recognize the brand right away, but they remember the image and hopefully the artist.
What's the hottest puzzle trend you're seeing right now that has you excited (or scratching your head)?
I don't pay attention to trends most of the time. But I do notice the puzzle community keeps growing, and that excites me. Puzzlers are so generous, supportive, and full of good vibes. I hope SOONNESS can continue to add something meaningful to that energy—offering unique puzzles that people really connect with.
Do you actually get to puzzle in your downtime, or is it all work and no play? And if so, what's your go-to when you need a puzzle fix?
Other than testing the new products, I don't puzzle every day, but when I'm feeling low or burned out from too much screen time, puzzles are my go-to reset. They instantly lift my mood and help me relax.
When I puzzle alone, I like easier ones—it feels soothing. But with friends, I go for something more challenging. I also love organizing puzzle meetups with a small group (usually 5–10 people), where we hang out and puzzle together for a few hours. It's always such a fun and cozy way to connect.
Want to experience the joy of SOONNESS puzzles yourself? Many of Soon's beautiful designs are featured in our Borrowed Piece subscription boxes, bringing that perfect combination of artistry and puzzle joy right to your door.
Ready to start your puzzle rental journey? Discover why thousands of puzzlers across Australia are choosing The Borrowed Piece for their puzzle adventures.
Have a favorite puzzle maker you'd love us to feature in our Meet the Maker series? We'd love to hear from you!