The gladdest moment in human life, me thinks, is a departure into unknown lands. -Sir Richard Burton
The history of maps dates back centuries, but even the most technical maps still fuel debate to this day. But there’s no debate as to whether maps have a place in your home - easily customizable to fit your decor, using maps in interior decorating can take your reputation as the neighborhood interior designer to a whole new level! And maps are great do-it-yourself project material...you can choose to:
- highlight a location you love
- use a stylized, old-school map to match your rustic style
- take advantage of styling with a 3D model (otherwise known as a globe...)
- change the colors to match whatever you want
- ...and a thousand other inspirational ideas
So whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you tend to experience at-home wanderlust, look no further - these 9 DIY map decor projects will have you planning your next adventure from the comfort of your impeccably-styled home. Happy travels, and let your inner cartographer shine!
DIY Map with Lights
This DIY project combines tasteful wall art with unique lighting to create a visually stunning, map-centered display. You could use the lights to mark places you’ve been or want to go, or simply highlight a unique design.
DIY Map Wall Art
Travel quotes are always inspirational, and there are plenty of them out there. Find your favorites and display them, using framed maps as the backdrop. You can stagger the images with images from your travels in a DIY gallery wall, or simply use the quotes as inspiration.
DIY Chalkboard Globe
Whether you use it as decor or a bookend, painting a small or large globe with chalkboard paint allows you to add a chalk quote and change it out whenever you feel like it. Plus, you can paint the frame of the globe with a refined gold, silver, or copper, or a whimsical bright color to match your decor.
DIY Gold Leaf Globe
Another globe DIY, using gold leaf to highlight the countries on a darker colored globe lets you create classy decor that stays with the map theme. These fancy globes will fit right in with your fancy sense of style!
DIY Tabletop Map
For side table, kids’ play tables, or a coffee table, this quick and easy DIY allows you to make any map you want a part of your furnishings. Choose the map based on color and location (on the map and in the room). You can even use different maps on two end tables for a matching set!
DIY Map Backsplash
A unique take on displaying maps in your home, check out this DIY map backsplash for the kitchen. It can be the visual pop you need to accent the rest of your decor without taking up valuable wall space for pictures.
DIY Mosaic Map
Instead of framing one map in one frame and displaying it, this homeowner opted to go with a mosaic map design, breaking up pieces of one map into many different frames that were displayed together as a complete set. This is a creative way to display a stylized map, and also takes up a lot of space if you have an empty wall.
DIY Map Throw Pillows
Want to incorporate maps without framing them and displaying them on your wall? Why not incorporate them into the design of your throw pillows? Not only will you still incorporate the map aesthetic, but you’ll also keep your living room couch nice and comfy.
DIY Map Wall Decal
Finally, for blank walls where you’re looking to make a bold statement, you can display a world map wall decal right on the wall without a frame or other distracting features. Less conventional than a regular map, a wall decal is a great option for renters not allowed to put holes in the wall (and decals are usually completely removable, too).
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