Make an Oversized World Map String Art

Whether you're a world traveler or just got your passport, this gorgeous world map with its intricate string art is the perfect addition to any eclectic living space.

Whether youâ  re a world traveler or you just got your passport, no one can resist this gorgeous world map with its intricate string art, playful color and large scale design.

DIY Large Scale String Art World Map

Whether you’re a world traveler or you just got your passport, no one can resist this gorgeous world map with its intricate string art, playful color and large scale design.

Photo by: Brian Patrick Flynn, Flynnsideout.com

Brian Patrick Flynn, Flynnsideout.com

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Materials Needed

  • world map
  • 3/4" plywood cut to same dimension as map
  • 1 x 2" trim to frame plywood (optional)
  • drill and drill bit
  • short, brass nails
  • string in desired color
  • scissors
  • paint and primer
  • paint roller
  • drop cloth
  • painter's tape

Prep Plywood

Get your plywood cut at the home improvement store to match the dimensions of your map. Then paint the plywood white with a high-quality paint and primer combination.

DIY Large Scale String Art World Map

Photo by: Brian Patrick Flynn, Flynnsideout.com

Brian Patrick Flynn, Flynnsideout.com

Pre-Drill Holes

Once the plywood is dry, you’re ready to begin prepping nail holes in the shape of the continents. Center the map on top of the plywood and secure it with painter’s tape. Once secure, begin drilling holes around the perimeter of each continent (Image 1), making sure to leave about 1/4-inch between each hole. (You want to leave enough space to wrap the string around the nail head once inserted.) Once you’ve drilled all the holes, remove the map from the plywood (Image 2).

Add Nails

Using your hammer, gently tap the nails into the plywood about a 1/4 inch.

Using your hammer, gently tap nails in about a .25 inch

DIY Large Scale String Art World Map

Using your hammer, gently tap nails in about a .25 inch

Photo by: Brian Patrick Flynn, Flynnsideout.com

Brian Patrick Flynn, Flynnsideout.com

Wrap String

Tie a knot to one nail, then start wrapping string around the nails randomly and in a diagonal pattern each time (Image 1, 2). Try not to wrap around the same nail twice to avoid a clumpy look. As you move across the map, work one section at a time, cutting the string and tying it off periodically (Image 3). Continue the process until the entire world map is complete.

Hang Map

Hang the map using the proper hardware and wall anchors so its weight is fully supported.

HGTV Spring House 2016 Pink Yarn-and-Nail Art Map

White, Blush and Brass

Blush is one of the most complex colors to work with, but when paired with the right accent colors, it can be super chic and rich. Here, blush is paired with a crisp white backdrop and accented with shiny touches of brass for a vintage look.

Photo by: Photo By: Flynnside Out Productions

Photo By: Flynnside Out Productions

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