With the trend for maps being so mahoosive at the moment, and my brother being a travel-lover, this theme always springs to mind when I'm thinking of gifts for him.
Last year for his birthday, he got my first travel art frame, made up of the destinations he visited on his round the world trip.
This Christmas I wanted to come up with something for his home. His style is quirky and utilitarian and now that his girlfriend has moved in, she's added a welcome feminine touch. So I wanted something to give to them as a joint gift along these lines.
Once I'd thought of the idea, Mum's charity shop managerial credentials were called into action. She sourced me an old wooden block game - you know the one where you build up the blocks and remove one at a time and try not to make it fall. It was actually an incomplete set but that was fine for this project. I needed just 12 blocks to make the coasters. You could also use tiles, or any wooden squares to make these coasters.
It's simply a case of covering each block in map paper. I used the maps that were in the back of last year's diary, but any A-Z, streetmap or atlas will work just the same.
I used Decopatch Glossy Glue but any PVA will do the same job.
Once dry, I gave the blocks an extra coat of glue, just to make sure it was completely sealed, especially as coasters have to cope with spilled drinks.
Finally I added vinyl lettering using my Cricut Explore. This is my absolute favourite gadget but if you don't have one, I can provide you with vinyl lettering at just £1 per coaster. What about personalising them with a couple's name for an engagement or wedding present? Contact @mummypuddleduck on Twitter, Facebook or Etsy.
I finished by packaging them in a box - again made using the Cricut (I really can't recommend it highly enough) and adding a 'Handmade' ribbon. The gift was very well received but I think I heard my brother mutter that he was going to put these on his wall rather than use them as coasters!
I'd love to hear your thoughts and see your creations after following this tutorial. And if I've missed out any steps, or something is unclear, please let me know. Happy crafting.
