Turn Any Frame into a Magnetic Adventure Map!

What’s better than a classic thrift-store find? A frame transformed into a magnetic map that lets you track your travels! This DIY project shows you how to convert any frame into a unique, interactive magnetic map, perfect for marking each adventure and inspiring your next one. With a magnetic map, you can showcase all the places you’ve explored and keep planning new trips with a map that’s already integrated into your daily life. It’s a fun, eye-catching way to capture memories, spark wanderlust, and even decorate your space with a purpose.

I made my first magnetic map using a trail map of my hometown, which I now use to mark all the spots nearby I want to explore. It’s become a daily reminder to keep adventuring, and I’m already planning to make more magnetic maps for national parks and dream destinations! Let’s dive in and create your own magnetic adventure map!

What You’ll Need

1. Frame – Any size or shape! Choose one with a bit of character if you want vintage flair, or go sleek and simple for a modern look.
2. Metal Sheet – Found at most hardware stores. Make sure it’s ferromagnetic (so it can attract magnets) and fits the frame. Consider whether you want the entire frame area to be magnetic, allowing you to store notes or magnets on the frame itself.
3. Metal Cutting Shears – Handy if the metal needs trimming.
4. Map Print – Pick a map you love, whether it’s a world map, country, or specific trail map. Using tape instead of adhesive to attach it will make it easy to swap maps if you want to feature different places on your magnetic map in the future.
5. Spray Adhesive or Non-Permanent Tape – Use tape if you plan to interchange maps. Otherwise, spray adhesive will create a more permanent bond with the metal.
6. Magnets – Small, strong magnets will allow you to mark each place on your map. Stackable or color-coded magnets make it easy to categorize, track repeat visits, or even layer multiple spots (see Optional Additions below for tips).
7. Optional: Acid-Free Poster Board – Using an acid-free backing helps preserve your map’s color and quality over time.
8. Painter’s Tape – For protecting frame edges.
9. Spray Paint or Wood Stain – To give your frame a fresh look if desired.

Optional Additions and Pro Tips

Use Acid-Free, Photo-Safe Poster Board as a Backing

• Why Acid-Free? It prevents discoloration and keeps the map vibrant over time, especially if you’re using a quality print.
• Worth It? While optional, it’s a nice extra for preservation. It also adds a clean, bright border to make the map pop in the frame.

Color-Coded, Stackable Magnets for Extra Organization

• Color-coded and stackable magnets make it easy to track different types of destinations on your magnetic map. Here are some color-coding ideas:
  • Purple for accessible spots for family visits (like Grandma’s favorite trails)
  • Orange for sunset viewing locations
  • Pink for top sunrise spots
  • Yellow for places you’ve already visited
  • Blue for dream destinations
• Stackable magnets are especially useful for marking repeat visits or tracking various categories within a single map.

Test Magnets Before Buying the Metal Sheet

• Not all magnets hold equally well, so bring a few to the hardware store to ensure they’ll work with your chosen metal. Some sheets can weaken magnetic hold depending on thickness or type, so it’s worth testing for the best results.

Choose the Right Metal Thickness

• A thin metal sheet is ideal, as it will fit better within the frame. If the metal is too thick, you may need to remove some backing layers to make everything secure.

Steps to Create Your Magnet Adventure Map

1. Prep Your Frame
   • Clean the frame and, if you want, update it with spray paint or wood stain. To give it a rustic look, sand the edges after painting for a weathered finish.
2. Cut the Metal Sheet to Fit
   • Measure the inside of the frame and cut the metal sheet with metal shears. Insert the metal into the frame to test for fit. Be cautious, as the edges can be sharp—gloves are a good idea!
3. Attach Your Map Print
   • Use non-permanent tape to secure the map if you want to swap maps later, or spray adhesive for a permanent fix.
   • Smooth out any wrinkles for a clean, polished look.
4. Assemble Your Frame
   • Add the acid-free poster board layer if you’re using one.
   • Secure everything in place with the frame backing, or use clips or glue around the edges if the frame doesn’t come with a backing.
5. Mark Your Adventures!
   • Place magnets to mark each travel destination! Personalize further by using small labels or dots on the magnets for place names or dates.
   • For even more flexibility, use dry erase markers on the frame’s glass to write notes, mark routes, or jot down trip plans.

Bonus: Creative Ways to Use Your Magnetic Map

1. Dream Destination Vision Board
   • Mark spots you’d love to visit on a world map. This turns your magnetic map into a vision board for future travel!
2. Event Planning Tracker
   • Use your map to plan multi-stop events or trips by adding magnets for each destination or stop along the way.
3. Magnetic Motivational Frame
   • You can also use this frame as a vision board by placing a motivational print inside and using magnets to hold notes, goals, or inspiring quotes.
4. Customer or Friend Map
   • Mark locations of friends, family, or customers to connect visually with your growing community.
5. National Park or Trail Tracker
   • Use park or trail maps to mark hikes, campsites, or scenic views, turning your frame into an adventure log of all your favorite outdoor spots.

Why a Magnetic Map is Worth It

A magnetic map is more than just a decor piece—it’s a way to remember places you’ve been, honor spots that impacted you, and keep dreaming about new adventures. Each magnet is a memory, each dot a reminder to keep exploring. So grab a frame, let your creativity flow, and turn it into a magnetic map that showcases your journey and inspires future travels!