Seeing these vintage maps in a pile was kind of a tease to those of you who love their beauty. Thought I'd show you how they turned out, and how we revived them...and which ones are still available!
These old school maps came on spring-loaded dowels so they could be rolled up like a shade when not needed. The maps had been well used. Whatever teacher owned them had taught her students their geography. I don't know their exact date. One of them said "1913 Edition." They're made of paper over canvas.
I struggled with how to preserve these beauties, and how to sell them as pieces of art. I think their time-worn character give them even more beauty and charm. I considered sewing them to a new piece of canvas, but because of their size, it would have been difficult. I decided adhering them to a piece of hardboard with spray adhesive would keep them the safest for the new generation to enjoy them as art.
I rolled out each map, wiped it down with a damp paper towel, and cut it off the roller. I used locktight spray adhesive, spraying both the back of the map and the board. I first used the lightest option, but the maps were falling off. I had to bump up to the heavier duty spray. I smoothed out the maps with a dry cloth, similar to the process of wallpapering. (Sorry no pics...I was working too late at night).
The hardboard was too thin for the screws of the D-hooks, so Mr. Fix-it engineered a filler board to make it work. I wanted the maps to still look like the original pull-downs, so he screwed the roller dowels to the top of the hardboard.
Here's how they turned out, in all their vintage glory:
These two sold over the weekend, along with the Iowa one that was in good enough shape to sell as is. I don't think this teacher taught her students about Iowa...
The Asia, Africa, and North America maps are still available. Their coloration is beautiful:
Measures 4' x 3', bottom dowel still attached, $129.
Measures 3' x 4', $129.
Measures 29" x 35". Definitely was the most used in the classroom. Beautiful coloration. $129.
I also have a piece of the Europe map, 24" x 30". It doesn't have the roller on the top, but has hanger on back. $45.
If you're interested, contact us at info@patinageneral.com. They would need to be picked up at the store when we're there; sorry, no shipping.
They looked so beautiful around the store this weekend:
Sure felt good to get that pile out of the dining room! Vintage Map refresh accomplished!
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