A map has been a quintessential guide for any traveller, the oldest one going back to 2,000 years ago, has come a long way. Starting with a two dimensional sketch to 3D shapes, like a globe or an engraved model to the present time virtual, but almost precise maps on our cellphones. Considering how the ancient travellers used stars and a compass on their global expeditions of discovery, it has been a major leap indeed. In this feature we get you 10 creative DIY projects with maps and globes.
Just like reading books on your tablet and reading one in fine print are two different experiences, so it is with the maps. It’s not too far in the past when there was nothing like an app to help as a navigator, on a cellphone. I was travelling in Europe with a foldable paper map that had the city divided into grids with numbers and alphabets, with a metro map behind it. It was fun interacting with locals, trying to ask them in their local language about a street or a local eatery on the map. Not all was understood but nevertheless it was quite an experience to be lost and found. Then came the age of Google maps where you can find it all with just a tap on your screen. However, you have to admit that a map with all its tiny twisted rivers or a vintage globe do have their own charm. Moving on lets get inspired by these beautiful DIY projects.
Pic courtesy: Pinterest
Lets get the spot light on the travel bug in you. Add quirk to your study or the dinning table with this super easy lamp made out of a globe.
Pic courtesy: Pinterest
This one is great when planning a vacation or just throwing a theme based party. Just take prints of maps from the internet in a particular size and use them as table mats. Want something more reusable? Stick them on a cork sheet and varnish the maps.
Pic courtesy: Pinterest
Gifting times are right around the corner and a map can be a great way to wrap them up. Try printing out some vintage ones perhaps or interesting picture maps, taken through a satellite, available online on sites like mappery.com
Pic courtesy: Pinterest
This is perhaps a great project for your kids at home. Ge them cut out the initial of their name and then help them cut the letter on the map too. Just paste it and its done.
Pic courtesy: Pinterest
Now I must admit this one came first on Martha Stewart site and what a great idea it is. Want to go back to the beautiful walk you had around the river Seine on your honeymoon, well get your thread and needle, a map on canvas or synthetic sheet and follow the path where you walked through. In then end get it framed and you will have an art piece like no other. Perfect for the die hard romantic ones.
Pic courtesy: Pinterest
I do have at least two friends who have a thing for buttons, but to make this piece of art you need a whole lot patience too. You may choose blue for oceans and green for land as well or for that matter any colour you might choose.. So much better than keeping them all boxed up in one corner.
Did you know you could use maps on your old Vans shoes or have a curated map theme manicure too? For all you travel bug bitten, map collecting, globe trotting people, we have more inspirational links on our Facebook page and you can also follow us on our Instagram account. Do let us know which is your favourite idea of them all. Bon voyage!
