Traveling fills us with stories, and maps are the visual memory of every place we’ve dreamed about or discovered.
Instead of letting old atlases and road maps collect dust, why not turn them into something truly special?
In this list, I’ll show you 22 brilliant and creative ways to transform those forgotten maps into stylish, useful, and one-of-a-kind DIY projects that spark adventure right from home.
#1. Map Gift Bags
Planning a farewell party, travel-themed wedding, or wanderlust birthday? These map-covered gift bags bring charm and adventure to your event.
Each one feels like a little promise of something magical made even sweeter with jute bows and a kraft paper airplane tag that says “Adventure Awaits.”
Additionally, they’re creative, personal, and surprisingly easy to assemble.
Materials Needed
- Old maps or atlas pages
- Small paper bags or cardstock for DIY bag base
- Glue stick or double-sided tape
- Jute twine or ribbon
- Kraft paper for airplane tags
- Scissors and hole punch
- Black pen or stamp for wording
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut the map to fit around your paper bag or create your own bag by folding cardstock into a pouch shape and securing the edges.
Step 2: Wrap the bag in the map sheet and glue it in place, smoothing as you go to prevent wrinkles.
Step 3: Punch holes at the top and thread jute twine through to tie a bow.
Step 4: Cut airplane shapes from kraft paper, write or stamp your travel message, and tie or glue them to the twine.
#2. Vintage Map Bookmarks
You can also give your reading habit a charming twist with handcrafted bookmarks made from old maps.
These make thoughtful gifts for book lovers or meaningful souvenirs if you use maps of places you’ve visited.
The rustic finish and curled ribbon tops give them that antique market vibe, and they slip perfectly between the pages.
Materials Needed
- Old road maps or atlases
- Cardstock or thick backing paper
- Glue stick or double-sided tape
- Hole puncher
- Ribbon or twine
- Distressing ink or stamp pad (optional)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut the map and backing paper into identical bookmark-sized rectangles. Round the corners if desired.
Step 2: Adhere the map piece to the cardstock using glue or tape, pressing firmly to avoid bubbles.
Step 3: Punch a hole near the top and thread through a short length of ribbon or twine.
Step 4: Lightly brush the edges with distressing ink for a vintage touch, then let dry. Ready to mark your next chapter!
#3. Vintage Map Headphone Place Cards
Designed to resemble over-ear headphones, these clever map headphone place cards blend retro charm and travel vibes in one cute accessory.
Perfect for travel-themed weddings or music-lover gatherings, each one is personalized and layered for dimensional flair.
They rest easily on glasses or plates, serving both style and function with a handmade touch.
Materials Needed
- Old map pages (preferably vintage-style)
- Black cardstock or construction paper
- White paper or blank labels
- Scissors or craft punch
- Glue stick or double-sided tape
- Pen or marker for names
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut out large circles from map pages — one for each guest.
Step 2: Cut matching curved “headband” shapes and sidebars from black paper to resemble headphones.
Step 3: Glue the black paper pieces around the map circle to create the headphone shape.
Step 4: Write or print guest names on small labels and attach to the map circles. Place them on plates or glasses for a fun, custom table setting.
#4. Vintage Map-Covered Storage Boxes
Wrapping them in vintage-style maps transforms everyday storage into eye-catching decor.
These map-covered boxes not only organize your space but also stir up memories of past adventures and inspire new ones.
Whether stacked on a bookshelf or used to hold craft supplies, they bring a warm, collected charm that feels personal and worldly.
Materials Needed
- Old maps or map printouts
- Cardboard or wooden boxes (any shape)
- Mod Podge or decoupage glue
- Foam brush or paintbrush
- Scissors or craft knife
- Optional: leather handle, stickers, or label tags
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Choose maps with appealing colors or places that mean something to you. Cut pieces to roughly fit the box surfaces.
Step 2: Apply Mod Podge to the box, then gently smooth on the map pieces. Work in sections to avoid bubbling.
Step 3: Trim any overhangs or corners carefully. Apply another coat of Mod Podge over the top to seal everything.
Step 4: Let dry thoroughly. Add a leather strap or label if you want to turn your box into functional decor with flair.
#5. Map-Covered Travel Greeting Card
Using pieces of vintage or travel maps, you can create a heartfelt and adventure-inspired greeting that feels personal and full of wonder.
Accented with tiny embellishments like luggage tags, airplanes, or hearts, it transforms from simple paper into a keepsake.
Perfect for globetrotters, travel lovers, or anyone who dreams of far-off places.
Materials Needed
- Old map pages
- Blank card or cardstock
- Scissors and glue stick
- Craft embellishments (stickers, die-cuts, tags)
- Markers or metallic pens
- Washi tape or mini stamps (optional)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut your map to fit the front of your card. Choose a location that’s meaningful or just visually interesting.
Step 2: Glue the map piece to the card front, smoothing out any bubbles or wrinkles.
Step 3: Add your chosen embellishments such as little paper luggage, a mini camera sticker, or a cute “Happy Birthday” die-cut, placing them artfully.
Step 4: Write a thoughtful message inside. This handmade piece doubles as a greeting and a miniature work of art.
#6. Map-Wrapped Paperweights
How about giving your desk a global touch with these rustic, map-covered paperweights?
Each stone becomes a one-of-a-kind art piece, wrapped in history and wanderlust.
The texture of the map against the smooth rock creates a natural yet nostalgic look that works beautifully in a study, library, or craft nook.
Whether you highlight meaningful places or just love vintage cartography, these weights are charmingly simple.
Materials Needed
- Smooth stones or large river rocks
- Old maps or atlas pages
- Scissors
- Mod Podge or craft glue
- Paintbrush or foam applicator
- Clear sealer or acrylic spray (optional)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Choose and clean smooth stones that fit comfortably in your hand. Let them dry completely.
Step 2: Cut map pieces slightly larger than the stone surface. Choose areas with personal meaning if you like.
Step 3: Brush Mod Podge on the rock’s surface and gently smooth the map over it. Press out bubbles and creases.
Step 4: Seal with a second coat of Mod Podge or a clear spray. Let dry. These also make thoughtful handmade gifts!
#7. Framed Circle Map Collage
This framed collage is a simple yet striking way to celebrate memories tied to different places.
I love how it turns humble scraps into something meaningful and gallery-worthy.
The layout adds visual order, while the maps themselves create subtle texture and color.
Materials Needed
- Old maps (varied colors and regions)
- Circle paper punch or scissors
- Shadow box or deep picture frame
- Cardstock or thick backing paper
- Glue stick or double-sided tape
- Ruler and pencil (for even spacing)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Use a circle punch to cut out map sections, you can try mixing colors, textures, or places that hold meaning to you.
Step 2: Arrange the circles on the backing paper to find a layout you like. Aim for even rows and columns for a clean finish.
Step 3: Once satisfied, attach each map circle using a glue stick or tape. Smooth them out gently to avoid bubbles.
Step 4: Let everything dry completely, then mount the paper into the frame. Hang it where it’ll remind you of the journeys that shaped you.
#8. Map Collage Tree Art
This whimsical map tree collage transforms old cartography into a joyful, colorful expression of creativity.
Using simple shapes and layered circles, it gives dimension and movement while remaining refreshingly minimal.
Each leaf holds a story, cities you’ve traveled, roads you’ve dreamed of, memories folded into paper.
Materials Needed
- Old maps (variety of colors and areas)
- Scissors or circle punch
- Thick white cardstock or watercolor paper
- Glue stick or paper adhesive
- Pencil and ruler (optional)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut out a trunk shape from map paper for the tree base. Use a region with defined roadlines for texture.
Step 2: Punch or cut various circles from different maps for the tree’s foliage. Mix regions for color contrast.
Step 3: Arrange the circles above the trunk in a clustered tree shape. Layer them slightly for depth.
Step 4: Glue all pieces onto a blank card or canvas. Let dry flat, then display or gift with love!
#9. Map Butterfly Cards and Envelopes
There’s something effortlessly nostalgic about sending a handwritten card and when it’s paired with a handmade map envelope and butterfly cutout, it feels even more special.
These delicate, fluttery map butterflies make each card feel personal and filled with wanderlust.
You can tailor the region on the butterfly to match a memory, dream, or destination.
Materials Needed
- Old maps (for butterflies and envelopes)
- Blank white cards or cardstock
- Envelope template or old envelope to trace
- Glue stick or double-sided tape
- Butterfly stencil or printable outline
- Scissors
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Trace butterfly shapes onto sections of the map that feature places with meaning, then cut them out carefully.
Step 2: Use glue to affix the butterflies to the front of blank cards. You can fold the wings up slightly for a 3D effect.
Step 3: Create envelopes by tracing a template onto old maps, cutting, folding, and gluing the edges into shape.
Step 4: Let everything dry and match your butterflies with their handmade envelopes. These are perfect for birthdays, thank-yous, or just thoughtful notes.
#10. Map Garland Banner
This travel-themed garland brings a fresh and adventurous vibe to any space.
Each pennant is cut from vintage or colorful maps, strung together with bright rickrack or ribbon for extra charm.
Hang it in a classroom, office, or over a party table to spark conversation and inspire wanderlust.
Materials Needed
- Old maps or atlas pages
- Rickrack, ribbon, or twine
- Scissors
- Hole punch or glue
- Pencil and ruler
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Draw and cut out triangle pennant shapes from old maps. Vary regions and colors for visual interest.
Step 2: Punch two holes at the top of each triangle or fold and glue a flap to secure it over the string.
Step 3: String the pennants onto your ribbon, twine, or rickrack. Space them evenly as you go.
Step 4: Hang across walls, mantels, or doorways. It’s a simple way to decorate with a hint of nostalgia and a love for adventure.
#11. Upcycled Map Roses
Wow, each petal is a delicate swirl of places once traveled or dreamt of, turning ordinary paper into lasting blossoms.
Displayed in a mason jar or tucked into a gift, these flowers carry a story in every fold.
They make charming centerpieces, heartfelt gifts, or even unique décor for travel-themed weddings and parties.
Materials Needed
- Old maps or map-printed scrapbook paper
- Scissors
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Floral wire or pipe cleaners
- Green floral tape or ribbon
- Ink pad or watercolor paint (optional for edges)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut spiral circles from your map paper, about 5-6 inches in diameter. The spiral should be slightly wavy to mimic petal curves.
Step 2: Starting from the outer edge, roll the spiral inward tightly, then let it loosen slightly to form the rose shape. Secure the base with hot glue.
Step 3: Attach the rose to a piece of floral wire using glue, and wrap the base with floral tape for a clean finish.
Step 4: For extra flair, lightly dab the petal edges with an ink pad or watercolor. Arrange several together for a whimsical bouquet!
#12. Upcycled Map Wreath
This handmade piece brings a touch of wanderlust to your front door, with its delicate map leaves layered in a soft, circular bloom.
Rolled paper flowers add texture and depth, making it feel like something you’d find in a cozy corner of a travel-inspired cottage.
It’s eye-catching, surprisingly sturdy, and tells a story with every fold.
Materials Needed
- Old roadmaps or atlas pages
- Cardboard or foam wreath form
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Scissors or craft knife
- Brown craft paper or colored cardstock (for flowers)
- Twine or ribbon for hanging
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut your maps into leaf shapes and curl them slightly for a natural effect. Vary the size and direction to keep it organic.
Step 2: Starting from the outside of the wreath form, begin gluing the leaves in layers, overlapping slightly as you move inward.
Step 3: Roll strips of craft paper or maps into tight spirals and let them naturally loosen. Secure with glue to form rosette-style flowers.
Step 4: Cluster the flowers onto one side of the wreath for a balanced, modern look. Attach a twine loop at the back to hang your masterpiece!
#13. Map Heart Gift Tags
These charming heart-shaped tags are a sweet nod to your favorite places.
Whether you’re wrapping up a handmade gift or labeling party favors, these little hearts carry a personal touch with vintage vibes.
The contrast between the map print and kraft paper gives them a timeless, earthy appeal.
Materials Needed
- Old maps or atlas pages
- Kraft cardstock or brown paper
- Heart-shaped stencil or punch
- Glue stick or double-sided tape
- Hole punch
- Twine, string, or ribbon
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Use a stencil or punch to cut out heart shapes from your maps and kraft paper.
Step 2: Glue the map hearts onto the center of the kraft hearts, leaving a small border.
Step 3: Punch a small hole at the top of each tag.
Step 4: Thread twine or ribbon through the holes and tie. They’re ready to add a world of charm to your wrapping!
#14. Upcycled Map Lampshades
The translucent quality of map paper creates a soft glow when backlit, making it both functional and artful.
These lamps bring a sense of wanderlust to your space and look amazing in offices, reading nooks, or bedrooms.
Plus, the detailed lines and city names become part of the design, offering both charm and storytelling.
Materials Needed
- Old maps (paper, not coated)
- Lampshade frame or existing shade
- Mod Podge or spray adhesive
- Craft knife or scissors
- Foam brush or sponge
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Remove the existing fabric or paper from your lampshade frame, leaving a clean base.
Step 2: Measure and cut the map to fit the shade’s dimensions, allowing a bit of overlap for seams.
Step 3: Apply adhesive to the back of the map or the frame, then gently wrap the map around the shade.
Step 4: Smooth out bubbles or creases, let it dry completely, and reattach the shade to the lamp base. It’s a piece of functional nostalgia with global flair.
#15. Map-Lid Memory Ornaments
These adorable ornaments made from mason jar lids bring your favorite places to life.
I love how a tiny heart pin instantly tells a story – your hometown, the place you met someone special, or where you hope to go next.
Specially, the twine adds a rustic charm that feels warm and nostalgic.
You can make a bunch and turn your tree into a celebration of all the places that shaped you.
Materials Needed
- Old maps
- Metal mason jar lids
- Jute twine or string
- Mod Podge
- Heart-shaped push pins or stickers
- Scissors and glue
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Trace the inside of the lid onto a map and cut it out to fit snugly.
Step 2: Brush a layer of Mod Podge inside the lid and press the map circle into place.
Step 3: Stick or pin a small heart at your meaningful location.
Step 4: Thread twine through the lid ring or hot glue it to the back. Hang and cherish!
#16. Map-Covered Geometric Trees
These tall, angular map trees are a modern, unexpected twist on seasonal decor.
Whether used for holiday charm or everyday art, they make a sculptural statement with a touch of wanderlust.
Moreover, the crisp lines highlight regions and coastlines beautifully, and you can group several together for a lovely tabletop forest.
Lightweight and easy to craft, they work well with both vintage and bright map styles.
Materials Needed
- Old maps or map-themed wrapping paper
- Cardstock or lightweight cardboard
- Scissors or craft knife
- Glue stick or craft adhesive
- Ruler and pencil
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Draw a tall triangle with a matching base flap on the cardboard. Add three more side panels to form a pyramid shape when folded.
Step 2: Cut out the shape and lightly score the fold lines for crisp edges. Fold into the tree form and glue along the edge.
Step 3: Cut map pieces to match each panel and glue them onto the sides. Try mixing different regions for variety.
Step 4: Let dry completely and display on shelves, mantels, or your holiday centerpiece for a worldly touch.
#17. Layered Map Heart Garland
This charming heart-shaped garland turns old maps into floating keepsakes full of warmth and wanderlust.
The layered paper strips bend inward to form plump, symmetrical hearts that hang gracefully from a jute string.
Hang it across a window, bookshelf, or party table to instantly bring a bit of travel magic to your space.
Materials Needed
- Old maps or map-printed paper
- Scissors or paper trimmer
- Stapler or glue stick
- Hole puncher
- Twine or jute string
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut map paper into strips of equal width (around 1 inch) but varying lengths for the layered look.
Step 2: Stack the strips longest to shortest on each side, aligning at the base, and staple or glue the bottom ends together.
Step 3: Gently curve the tops of the strips inward to meet in the center and form the heart shape. Secure them with another staple.
Step 4: Punch a hole in the top and thread twine through. Repeat and string them together into a garland.
#18. Map-Covered Christmas Ornament
This travel-themed ornament is a nostalgic keepsake that adds heart to your holiday décor.
I love how it captures places that matter such as your hometown, honeymoon spot, or bucket list dream, right there on your tree.
The globe-like effect feels cozy and personal, especially when the lights reflect off the glossy surface.
Materials Needed
- Clear or matte plastic ornament ball
- Old map scraps
- Mod Podge or decoupage glue
- Small sponge brush
- Silver glitter (optional for the cap)
- Scissors
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut the map into small curved pieces that will wrap smoothly around the ball’s surface.
Step 2: Apply a thin layer of Mod Podge on the ornament, then gently smooth a map piece into place. Repeat, overlapping slightly.
Step 3: Once the ornament is fully covered, brush another coat of Mod Podge over the top to seal everything.
Step 4: Let it dry fully, then add glitter to the ornament cap if you want extra sparkle. Finally, add a hook and hang it proudly!
See also: 22 Cute Handmade Christmas Ornaments to Brighten Your Tree
#19. Heart-Shaped Map Pendants
You can see each piece captures a special place like your birthplace, honeymoon spot, or dream city making it more than just jewelry.
They’re perfect for gift-giving or as meaningful keepsakes for yourself.
Their delicate silver chains and glossy glass cabochons give off an elegant, polished look you’ll want to wear daily.
Materials Needed
- Small printed map cutouts
- Heart-shaped pendant trays
- Glass cabochons
- Mod Podge or clear-drying glue
- Necklace chains
- Scissors and tweezers
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut a small heart from your map that fits perfectly into your pendant tray.
Step 2: Apply a layer of Mod Podge or glue inside the tray, then press the map in.
Step 3: Add glue to the back of the glass cabochon and press it gently on top.
Step 4: Let it dry completely, then loop your pendant onto a chain. Done!
#20. Map Sailboat Decor
Crafted from a piece of driftwood and an old map turned sail, this map sailboat captures the spirit of adventure with vintage charm.
I love how each sail tells its own story, hinting at faraway places and salt-kissed horizons.
Plus, the string of sea glass-like beads adds a playful, breezy touch. It’s the kind of piece that makes you want to pack a bag and chase the wind.
Materials Needed
- Small driftwood or scrap wood piece (for boat base)
- Old map (for sail)
- Wooden skewer or stick (for mast)
- Twine or thin rope
- Decorative beads or faux sea glass
- Glue gun and glue sticks
- Mini anchor embellishment (optional)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut a triangle shape from the map to serve as your sail. Trim to fit your stick or mast height.
Step 2: Attach the sail to the wooden stick using hot glue or stitch it with embroidery thread for extra charm.
Step 3: Glue the mast vertically into the center of your driftwood piece. Let dry completely.
Step 4: String decorative beads along twine and drape from the top of the mast for a fluttering flag effect. Then add an anchor or embellishment if you’d like to finish the nautical vibe.
#21. DIY Map Coasters
Why not turn leftover maps into charming coasters that bring a wanderlust vibe to your morning coffee or evening wine?
These coasters not only protect your table but also make every sip feel like a trip down memory lane.
They’re easy to personalize and perfect for travel-themed gifts or housewarming baskets.
Materials Needed
- Cork coasters or wooden coaster blanks
- Old maps or printed map pages
- Scissors or craft knife
- Mod Podge or decoupage glue
- Foam brush
- Clear acrylic sealer spray
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut out map sections slightly larger than your coasters to allow trimming after gluing.
Step 2: Apply Mod Podge to the top of the coaster and place the map piece over it, smoothing it flat.
Step 3: Trim any overhanging edges carefully and apply another coat of Mod Podge over the top.
Step 4: Let dry fully and seal with clear acrylic spray to make the surface water-resistant.
#22. Map-Decoupaged Chair
Give an ordinary chair a stunning global makeover using old maps and a bit of Mod Podge.
This project transforms a plain seat into a one-of-a-kind conversation piece that carries the charm of faraway places.
The curved seat and backrest create a beautiful canvas for colorful cartography.
I find this idea perfect for travel lovers or anyone wanting a statement piece in their office or reading nook.
Materials Needed
- Chair with a smooth surface
- Old maps or map wrapping paper
- Decoupage glue (like Mod Podge)
- Scissors and craft knife
- Foam brush or paintbrush
- Clear sealant spray or varnish
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Clean and lightly sand the chair surface to help glue adhere better.
Step 2: Cut maps into panels or strips that fit your chair’s shape, gently curving around the seat and backrest.
Step 3: Apply a layer of Mod Podge to the chair and press map pieces down, smoothing out bubbles as you go.
Step 4: Once dry, seal with additional coats of Mod Podge and finish with clear spray sealant for durability.
