I love old maps and love to decorate with them. Recently I made some
The vintage world map really transformed a generic and rather boring old IKEA side table to something rather more interesting to look at. As a family, we love to travel and have a bit of a wanderlust theme for our decor.
I work on a world map desk and I have printed personalized map pillows on my sofa. Also, as I sit here writing this post I’m currently sitting on one of the map chairs I make (the Norway one to be more precise).
Every time I visit a flea market I’m on the lookout for vintage maps and I have quite a collection.
One of my favorite souvenirs, when I visit somewhere new, is a map. Old maps if I can find them but I like tourist maps too and even use them in my upcycles like with my map table mats.
A Simple but really effective IKEA Hack – Map Table
This was a really simple and affordable map table hack. As I used world map gift wrap for the tabletop. The world map gift wrap I used is readily available in many book stores and gift shops around the world and online.
However, if you can’t find the same gift wrap or want a different old world map to use you can find them here.
This is one of my many IKEA map hacks, I’ve also made a denim world map floor cushion from an IKEA Ursula cushion cover. I’ve also done an IKEA clock hack with maps.

This post contains
What You Need To Make a Map Table
Old Table – the table used here was and IKEA Hemnes table. But any small side table would do. Such as the IKEA Lack table or you might have one already in your home that you want to transform.

- Grey chalk paint – If you use chalk paint then there is minimal preparation of the woodwork needed. I also felt that the paint color complemented the map I used.
- Cavallini World Map Giftwrap
- Paintbrushes
- Mod Podge
- Acrylic varnish
- Craft knife
How to Make a Map Table
1. The first thing you need to do is to clean and paint the side table in the desired color. If you use chalk paint there is no need to sand and prep the table first.
2. Next, carefully measure the top of the table. Then, roll out your Map and cut out the section that you need using these measurements. If you use a downloaded map you can print
3. When the paint is fully dried. Cover the tabletop with a layer of Mod Podge glue. Then, leave it to dry slightly about 1-2 minutes so that it feels tacky to the touch.
4. Next, carefully place the cut-out map on top of the glue-covered table. Then, using a ruler or credit card gently squeeze out any air bubbles.
5. Next, brush a layer of Mod Podge over the top of the map, leave to dry overnight. This will act as a protective varnish.
6. Finally, I suggest protecting the table even further that you cover it with another layer of waterproof glue or waterproof varnish. This will help protect the map from drink spills and coffee cup ring marks.


IKEA Map Table Hack

Learn how to upcycle an old side table with a world map to give it a completely new look and make it a talking point.
Materials
- Old side table
- Grey Chalk Paint
- World Map Giftwrap
- Mod Podge
Tools
- Paint brushes
- Glue brush
- Scissors
Instructions
- Firstly, paint the table with chalk paint. No need to paint the top as this will be covered with the map.
- Measure the tabletop and cut the map to fit the top.
- Cover the tabletop in Mod Podge.
- Carefully, lay the map onto the top of the table. Use a credit card to squeeze out any air bubbles as you lay the map down.
- Cover the map with another layer of Mod Podge to act as a varnish.
- Optionally, once the Mod Podge has dried add another waterproof varnish to protect the table from spills.
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IKEA Map Table Hack – Using Image Transfer
The decoupage IKEA map table hack is really that simple and works really well. However, there is another way to print a map onto a tabletop.
This other method still uses Mod Podge but this time as an image transfer. I used this method to hack the kids IKEA table in the playroom with a map of my favorite city Hong Kong.
I used Map
I love both my map tables but I think the vintage world map one is my favorite. I love to sit looking at the map whilst I’m having my morning coffee planning my next trip.
Collection of large free maps to download. World maps, country maps & popular cities.

This map table hack featured in the alphabet of cool and clever upcycling ideas.
If you liked this post you will also like some of my other map DIYs and crafts:
Simple Ikea Moppe Map Hack
Easy Map Place Mats
Upcycled Map Magnetic Board and Pins
Brilliant Vintage Map Suitcase
B
Hi! I’ve saved this to my DIY pinterest board ages ago and finally got around to doing it today, yay!
The map I used is on thicker textured paper and after spreading modge podge on the surface of the table, it began to wrinkle. I tried using a ruler to iron them out toward the edges but it didn’t help much. I then added a layer of modge podge on the top thinking it would make it more pliable and easier to smooth out but it made it worse. I ran into other issues like the modge drying too quickly and then I couldn’t lift and reposition the map without having to start all over. Help! Any tips?
Claire Armstrong
Sorry, you are having difficulties with wrinkles. I would not have applied the top layer of Mod Podge until the paper had dried. Another method to dry is to spray the paper with an acrylic sealer before Mod Podging to the table. Wait until the sealer has dried first and use a roller to smooth out any air bubbles. I hope that helps.
Jason Holland
Do you have a link to the chair project you mentioned? Thanks
Claire Armstrong
The link is in the first paragraph just click on the coloured highlighted text.
Tim
I think “gallery wrapped” edges (like that which is done to painting canvases), rather than the flat table-top only covering would improve the final product even more.
Claire Armstrong
Thank you. I might consider that next time.
Paul
Claire- Thank you for this tutorial. We have a 243x 110cm dining table that I’d like to do this with. Would you suggest using Mapbox for a table this big? Also, the edges of the table are heavily rounded (think conference table). How would you suggest working with rounded edges? I really want to do this, but I’m a bit intimidated by the project. I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Claire Armstrong
For a table that big I would suggest using map wallpaper. If you google you should find a company that will deliver map wallpaper to you. Some have pre printed designs with others they can print you a map of anywhere you want. I’ve done a post on how to wallpaper a table https://www.pillarboxblue.com/wallpaper-decoupage-table-top/. A rounded edge won’t be easy, Before pasting the paper I suggest you lay it on to the table and cut to size. Then paste and stick. Good luck with it, I’d love to see a photo when you are finished.
sara
Wow, this is so cool! I love the map on the table!
Claire Armstrong
Thank you so much.
Leanna
This is a really nice idea. The map top is terrific.
Claire Armstrong
Cheers and thank you!
Sarah
I so enjoy decorating with maps, I love this table and your chairs. Such fun pieces.
Claire Armstrong
Thank you so much!
Lynn
I dub you the Queen of Map projects!!! I love your roses and your chairs..and now that table. Perfect idea.
Claire Armstrong
Thanks, I do like to craft with maps.
Ivory
Lovely, lovely and lovely. Have not had time to make this project, but I plan to make one ASAP. So beautiful.
Claire Armstrong
Thank you very much.
Lois Schrier
I love your chairs and your friends so I table. They are unique.
I saw a picture Of a globe that was turned into a pendant lamp. Have you ever tried a project like that?
Claire Armstrong
Thank you ! Not a globe lamp, but I have hacked an IKEA lampshades eith maps which you can see here
Rebecca West
Cool! I did a modpodged map onto my son’s IKEA dresser years ago, it’s such a fun craft. I think the table top you did is a way cuter idea! Tahnks for linking up with us at Welcome Home Wednesdays, hope you’ll link up again this week!
Claire Armstrong
Thank you ! I bet your sons dresser looked great.
Tuula @ Thrifty Rebel Vintage
Love the map table. It turned out really great! Thanks so much for sharing it at Vintage Charm.
Claire Armstrong
Thank you !
Stacey
The table and the chairs turned out great!! Maps are so cool and when you find a fun way like this to incorporate them into decor it’s a bonus.
So thankful to you for being a faithful friend at Thoughts of Home on Thursday.
Now I’m off to find out what “chuffed” means. 🙂
Claire Armstrong
Thanks ! It means to be pleased/happy with ones self, it’s a common expression used in England (maybe not so much with the kids but us adults use it).
Edye
Love the finished product, Claire! It looks amazing <3
Blessings,
Edye | http://gracefulcoffee.wordpress.com
Claire Armstrong
Thank you very much !
Pili
I love maps so much and your table turned out beautiful! No one would ever think it was a plain Ikea table before. The chairs are gorgeous too, the underground one is so cool!
Thanks for sharing with us at Sweet Inspiration, hope you have a lovely weekend Claire!
Claire Armstrong
Thank you ! Yes I love that retro underground map too!
Debrashoppeno5
I love how the maps turn a simple piece of furniture into a special piece of furniture.
Claire Armstrong
Thank you ! I just think maps are so cool !
Jemma
Just had to pin these:) I love them:)
Thanks so much for the tutorial too.
TOHOT~Jemma
Claire Armstrong
Thank you very much.
sherry
I love this table, and I love the chairs too. I would love to try this myself.
Claire Armstrong
Thank you ! you should definately give it a go.
Victoria @DazzleWhileFrazzled
LOVE the chairs and the table! So much fun and a great way to capture the traveling memories.
Claire Armstrong
Thank you ! I just love working with maps.
Debi Carser
LOVE the table but REALLY LOVE the chairs! AWESOME!!!
Claire Armstrong
Thank you very much, maps make things look great. You can see the chair tutorial here.
https://www.pillarboxblue.com/how-to-make-personalised-map-chairs/
Debi Carser
LOVE the table but REALLY LOVE the chairs! Awesome job on both!
Audra @ Renewed Projects
these are totally wonderful! great project ideas!
Claire Armstrong
Thank you. Just had a look at your site and love your map fence boards
Havok
Oh man, that table is awesome! I think that’s one of the big pulls of IKEA furniture (at least in the online-blogging-world), is that it just screams to be customized in some way or another! 😀
Jennifer
What a cool idea! Thanks for linking up at the Weekend Blog Hop at My Flagstaff Home!
Jennifer
Claire Armstrong
Thank you
Veronika | Tickled Pink Confetti
This is so lovely! My husband loves map themed stuff and this is just the perfect project for his man cave. Thanks for sharing.
Claire Armstrong
Thank you
Lisa @ Fun Money Mom
Oh my gosh…I LOVE this! What a cute idea and the chairs & table look great together. I’m going to try this sometime! Thanks for sharing
Visiting from Mom Blogs Party 🙂
Claire Armstrong
Thank you I agree I think they look good togethr
Heather @ Viral Upcycle
Claire, I love your map projects. It’s giving me courage to use up some of my nautical charts! Thanks so much for linking up to Choose Save Tuesday!
Claire Armstrong
Thanks
creativejewishmom/sara
so much fun! Thanks so much for sharing on craft schooling Sunday!
Claire Armstrong
Thank you
Lorelai @ Life With Lorelai
Great project. Thanks for sharing at the #HomeMattersParty – we love partying with you! Hope to see you next Friday. 🙂
~Lorelai
Life With Lorelai
Claire Armstrong
Thank you
Stella Lee@ Purfylle
I’m really impressed with how well this turned out. I have a table that needs a makeover and I’m going to start looking for an awesome map to do this with it.
Claire Armstrong
Thanks, it really does look good and is so easy to do.