I have a weird thing for maps. They don't even have to be depicting anywhere remotely cool for me to swoon. I don't know what it is about them, really. Maybe it's the funky names, or the windy roads, or the fact that I'm pretty sure I was born to be nomadic (sigh... a life thus far unfulfilled) Whatever it is, I don't care. I love them, plain and simple. Here are a few crafty ideas to showcase those lovely maps!
Line your envelopes!
Trace the entire envelope (with the flap open) onto your map. Cut it out. Cut a 1/2" strip off the bottom. Trim sides slightly. Slip the map into your envelope and secure a little bit of mono adhesive or glue and DONE! Definitely makes that letter or card stand out! It also fixes see-through flimsy envelopes!
Map Magnets
These are great if you like the idea of souvenir magnets from travelling, but want a nicer, cohesive feel! Just grab magnets and a bag of decorative glass stones from your local craft store. (They're usually in or near floral.) Trace the stones onto your maps and cut them out. The shapes don't have to be perfect. Apply a coat of Mod Podge to the back of the stone and immediately place one of the cut-outs onto it, gently rubbing to remove any bubbles. Once it dries use a hot glue gun to attach a magnet!
Make a gift bow
The typical gift bow (if you even bother spending the $3 for one) usually gets thrown out. This one is nearly free and will definitely wow its recipient. Find out how to make it here :)
Make Roses
These are so quick, easy, and versatile. They can be used to top a gift, to decorate a frame, turned into a hair clip, brooch, pendant, or attached to stems and placed in a vase. Seriously? Use them for anything.
Letter Cut-Outs
Trace and cut out letters! You can frame them, stick them to walls, back them with cardboard and use them as a decoration, use them in your scrapbook, etc.
They even look great in frames all by themselves! I used yarn and a bit of glue to create a work of art I like to call "It's not that I was lost before I met you, it's just that I didn't know where I was going." As you can see the ride is much smoother with him ;)
Ok, so I've inspired a love a maps within you and you want a way to fit maps into your decor? Say no more. Inspire Bohemia has compiled the most extensive collection of map decor inspiration EVER. I highly recommend swinging over for a peek! Here's a little teaser...
I want to go to there. Ballard Designs Thanks to Kari for knowing the source of this photo! Ps- Ballard Designs is my new addiction!
Enjoy!
