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You are here: Home / DIY Upcycling / How to Make a Map Table an IKEA Hack

How to Make a Map Table an IKEA Hack

24th July 2015 by Claire Armstrong 72 Comments

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IKEA Map Table Hack

I love old maps and love to decorate with them. Recently I made some personalized map chairs. I decided to compliment them with this IKEA map table hack.

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.

IKEA Map Table Hack


This post contains Amazon affiliate links for your convenience. Click here to see my disclosure policy.
 

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.

Ikea Hemma Table
  • 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
paint

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 it to size.

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.

Ikea Hack Map Table

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
Map table
Map table & chair pillarboxblue.com
Yield: Map Table

IKEA Map Table Hack

Upcycle a boring Ikea table with a world map and turning it into a fantastic map table.

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.

Prep Time 30 minutes
Active Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Difficulty Easy

Materials

  • Old side table
  • Grey Chalk Paint
  • World Map Giftwrap
  • Mod Podge

Tools

  • Paint brushes
  • Glue brush
  • Scissors

Instructions

  1. Firstly, paint the table with chalk paint. No need to paint the top as this will be covered with the map.
  2. Measure the tabletop and cut the map to fit the top.
  3. Cover the tabletop in Mod Podge.
  4. 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.
  5. Cover the map with another layer of Mod Podge to act as a varnish.
  6. Optionally, once the Mod Podge has dried add another waterproof varnish to protect the table from spills.

Recommended Products

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

  • Cavallini Co. World Map 1 Decorative Paper Sheet 20" x 28"
    Cavallini Co. World Map 1 Decorative Paper Sheet 20" x 28"
© Pillarboxblue
Project Type: Decoupage / Category: Ikea Hacks

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 Mapbox, to create a map of Hong Kong. It is a great tool for creating modern maps of any city in the world. Plus there are so many style options to choose from.

Create a free map in mapbox and transfert he image onto an IKEA kids table for a unique hack.

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.

Free vintage maps

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

Filed Under: DIY Upcycling, Ikea Hacks, Maps Tagged With: decoupage, Ikea hack, ikea hemnes table, ikea table, map chair, map table, maps, upcycle, upcycled chairs, upcycled maps, upcycled table

Previous Post: « Easy DIY Giant Paper Mache Cactus
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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. B

    27th July 2020 at 1:58 am

    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?

    Reply
    • Claire Armstrong

      27th July 2020 at 6:57 pm

      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.

      Reply
  2. Jason Holland

    22nd June 2019 at 4:57 pm

    Do you have a link to the chair project you mentioned? Thanks

    Reply
    • Claire Armstrong

      22nd June 2019 at 6:47 pm

      The link is in the first paragraph just click on the coloured highlighted text.

      Reply
  3. Tim

    26th March 2019 at 4:10 pm

    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.

    Reply
    • Claire Armstrong

      26th March 2019 at 4:20 pm

      Thank you. I might consider that next time.

      Reply
  4. Paul

    27th March 2018 at 7:28 am

    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.

    Reply
    • Claire Armstrong

      27th March 2018 at 9:46 am

      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.

      Reply
  5. sara

    25th February 2017 at 12:35 am

    Wow, this is so cool! I love the map on the table!

    Reply
    • Claire Armstrong

      25th February 2017 at 7:41 am

      Thank you so much.

      Reply
  6. Leanna

    23rd February 2017 at 5:28 am

    This is a really nice idea. The map top is terrific.

    Reply
    • Claire Armstrong

      23rd February 2017 at 8:56 am

      Cheers and thank you!

      Reply
  7. Sarah

    23rd February 2017 at 3:09 am

    I so enjoy decorating with maps, I love this table and your chairs. Such fun pieces.

    Reply
    • Claire Armstrong

      23rd February 2017 at 8:56 am

      Thank you so much!

      Reply
  8. Lynn

    23rd February 2017 at 2:18 am

    I dub you the Queen of Map projects!!! I love your roses and your chairs..and now that table. Perfect idea.

    Reply
    • Claire Armstrong

      23rd February 2017 at 8:56 am

      Thanks, I do like to craft with maps.

      Reply
  9. Ivory

    28th October 2016 at 7:58 pm

    Lovely, lovely and lovely. Have not had time to make this project, but I plan to make one ASAP. So beautiful.

    Reply
    • Claire Armstrong

      28th October 2016 at 10:27 pm

      Thank you very much.

      Reply
  10. Lois Schrier

    14th August 2016 at 6:03 am

    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?

    Reply
    • Claire Armstrong

      14th August 2016 at 7:05 am

      Thank you ! Not a globe lamp, but I have hacked an IKEA lampshades eith maps which you can see here

      Reply
  11. Rebecca West

    8th June 2016 at 5:13 am

    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!

    Reply
    • Claire Armstrong

      8th June 2016 at 6:23 am

      Thank you ! I bet your sons dresser looked great.

      Reply
  12. Tuula @ Thrifty Rebel Vintage

    6th June 2016 at 6:20 pm

    Love the map table. It turned out really great! Thanks so much for sharing it at Vintage Charm.

    Reply
    • Claire Armstrong

      6th June 2016 at 8:09 pm

      Thank you !

      Reply
  13. Stacey

    5th June 2016 at 10:57 pm

    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. 🙂

    Reply
    • Claire Armstrong

      6th June 2016 at 6:20 am

      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).

      Reply
  14. Edye

    4th June 2016 at 5:50 pm

    Love the finished product, Claire! It looks amazing <3

    Blessings,
    Edye | http://gracefulcoffee.wordpress.com

    Reply
    • Claire Armstrong

      4th June 2016 at 7:23 pm

      Thank you very much !

      Reply
  15. Pili

    4th June 2016 at 7:11 am

    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!

    Reply
    • Claire Armstrong

      4th June 2016 at 7:59 am

      Thank you ! Yes I love that retro underground map too!

      Reply
  16. Debrashoppeno5

    3rd June 2016 at 4:23 pm

    I love how the maps turn a simple piece of furniture into a special piece of furniture.

    Reply
    • Claire Armstrong

      3rd June 2016 at 4:49 pm

      Thank you ! I just think maps are so cool !

      Reply
  17. Jemma

    2nd June 2016 at 7:03 pm

    Just had to pin these:) I love them:)
    Thanks so much for the tutorial too.
    TOHOT~Jemma

    Reply
    • Claire Armstrong

      2nd June 2016 at 9:31 pm

      Thank you very much.

      Reply
  18. sherry

    2nd June 2016 at 12:13 pm

    I love this table, and I love the chairs too. I would love to try this myself.

    Reply
    • Claire Armstrong

      2nd June 2016 at 2:15 pm

      Thank you ! you should definately give it a go.

      Reply
  19. Victoria @DazzleWhileFrazzled

    8th April 2016 at 4:54 pm

    LOVE the chairs and the table! So much fun and a great way to capture the traveling memories.

    Reply
    • Claire Armstrong

      8th April 2016 at 6:42 pm

      Thank you ! I just love working with maps.

      Reply
  20. Debi Carser

    26th September 2015 at 1:07 am

    LOVE the table but REALLY LOVE the chairs! AWESOME!!!

    Reply
    • Claire Armstrong

      26th September 2015 at 8:02 am

      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/

      Reply
  21. Debi Carser

    26th September 2015 at 12:47 am

    LOVE the table but REALLY LOVE the chairs! Awesome job on both!

    Reply
  22. Audra @ Renewed Projects

    15th August 2015 at 3:42 pm

    these are totally wonderful! great project ideas!

    Reply
    • Claire Armstrong

      15th August 2015 at 3:51 pm

      Thank you. Just had a look at your site and love your map fence boards

      Reply
  23. Havok

    1st August 2015 at 9:27 pm

    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! 😀

    Reply
  24. Jennifer

    31st July 2015 at 11:08 pm

    What a cool idea! Thanks for linking up at the Weekend Blog Hop at My Flagstaff Home!

    Jennifer

    Reply
    • Claire Armstrong

      1st August 2015 at 5:20 am

      Thank you

      Reply
  25. Veronika | Tickled Pink Confetti

    31st July 2015 at 2:26 am

    This is so lovely! My husband loves map themed stuff and this is just the perfect project for his man cave. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
    • Claire Armstrong

      31st July 2015 at 4:11 am

      Thank you

      Reply
  26. Lisa @ Fun Money Mom

    30th July 2015 at 7:18 pm

    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 🙂

    Reply
    • Claire Armstrong

      30th July 2015 at 7:52 pm

      Thank you I agree I think they look good togethr

      Reply
  27. Heather @ Viral Upcycle

    28th July 2015 at 12:05 pm

    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!

    Reply
    • Claire Armstrong

      28th July 2015 at 12:17 pm

      Thanks

      Reply
  28. creativejewishmom/sara

    27th July 2015 at 7:47 pm

    so much fun! Thanks so much for sharing on craft schooling Sunday!

    Reply
    • Claire Armstrong

      27th July 2015 at 7:59 pm

      Thank you

      Reply
  29. Lorelai @ Life With Lorelai

    27th July 2015 at 3:05 pm

    Great project. Thanks for sharing at the #HomeMattersParty – we love partying with you! Hope to see you next Friday. 🙂

    ~Lorelai
    Life With Lorelai

    Reply
    • Claire Armstrong

      27th July 2015 at 4:52 pm

      Thank you

      Reply
  30. Stella Lee@ Purfylle

    27th July 2015 at 12:55 am

    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.

    Reply
    • Claire Armstrong

      27th July 2015 at 3:58 am

      Thanks, it really does look good and is so easy to do.

      Reply

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