I have a couple of out-of-date atlases that I’ve been using for craft projects. So far I’ve made some coasters, covered the lid of a wood box, and my son used a page to wrap a box for a school project. When I saw this tutorial for map pendant necklaces, I knew I had to try this. I happened to have all the supplies, too, so it was even better. I love being able to find a new purpose for an out of date book. I followed this tutorial exactly, except that I used square pendants. I’ll show you pictorially what I did, but click on over to Happy Hour Projects to see the full tutorial.
One of the great things about this is that you can create custom maps for people. I created a Redding map necklace for someone who was born in Redding. Wouldn’t that be a great birthday gift? I made one of San Luis Obispo because that’s where we lived when we got married. Cool, huh? You should try it. It’s a really nice way to be reminded of your favorite places.
Linking up to some of these fabulous parties:
Whipperberry
Poor and Gluten Free
Housewife How-Tos
I love the map pendants. Reminds me of where I’m headed.
Haha! Me too.
I like this! It would be fun to have a charm showing all the places we’ve lived, or vacationed. Thanks for sharing!
That’s a great idea! Thanks for stopping by.
Oh I absolutely love this. I love maps and the idea of somewhere meaningful. Would you come link it up to my party at http://www.memoriesbythemile.com/
Have a fantastic day!
Wanda Ann @ Memories by the Mile
Thanks, Wanda Ann! I’m looking forward to your California post next week!
Beautiful! Will have to try these!
Thanks, Diane! They are really simple and fun. I made one of Paris for my niece, who loves Les Miserables. I think there are lots of ways to find meaningful places.
These are so unique and pretty! I would buy that San Francisco one if I saw it on Etsy…
Thank you! I’ve considered selling them in my Etsy shop, but lots of people already sell similar ones there. I’m sure you could find something wonderful!
These pendants are really cute. I’ve seen some coaster made from maps too. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks! I’ve been on a map kick lately, so it’s been fun to think of ways to use the old maps.
[...] the California coast. One of the great things about crafting with maps, whether you’re making map pendant necklaces like I shared last week, or coasters, is that you can customize these for the recipient by finding [...]
I love these! Makes me want to go find an old atlas (that I’m sure my parents have sitting around somewhere at their house…)
Thanks! Library sales are great places to find these if your parents don’t have one you can use. I found mine for $1.50 several years ago.
Brilliant idea, would work well for keyrings too, I think. A lovely anniversary present if you chose the place where you got married or went on honeymoon. Spotted you on Poor and Gluten Free’s blog hop – best wishes from the UK
You are right, Alison, keyrings work well, too! Thanks for visiting!
L-O-V-E this necklace! Can’t wait to try this out for friends’ birthdays!
Thanks, Natalie! I hope they are fun for you to make AND give!
Thanks for sharing your cool idea with us! Stop by again next week and link up another cool idea.
Have a great week!
Susie @bowdabra
http://bowdabrablog.com/2013/03/02/crafty-showcase-link-up-anything-fun-in-the-craft-project-linky-3/
Sure thing! I always like your parties.
I love this idea. My hubby loves maps so I’ve saved them from every place we’ve ever been together (he’s also very sentimental) so I’ll have to keep an eye out for those little glass pendants.
Thanks so much for sharing this on Waste Not Want Not Wednesday. I’ve pinned it
Thanks, Danielle! I think the possibilities are endless here. There are lots of ways to be creative with maps.
[...] maps have been a theme of mine this year. I’ve made coasters, necklaces, and a decorated storage box. I’ve also been on a downsizing kick. Isn’t it perfect [...]