What do you think of when you see a world map? Some people see a practical tool that can help them in their business; others see an ideal educational tool for a classroom or children’s playroom; others still see an intricate work of art that could easily serve as the focal point in any room. The framed world map, in its many available forms, can serve any and all of the above-listed functions, which is why it continues to be a popular and easily attainable commodity. The following are some of the general map designs available for purchase, according to subject:

• Historical
• Political
• Environmental
• Topographical

The above-listed subjects are quite general. It is also possible to find framed world maps with more specific focuses including, but not limited to, the following:

• Languages
• Earthquakes and other seismic activity
• Vegetation
• Population densities
• Endangered species
• Satellite views
• Night views

As evidenced by the lists above, there are framed world maps to suit every area of interest. One category that merits a more detailed discussion is the realm of historical maps. Over the centuries, the evolution of cartography has reflected the evolution of human understanding. This fact becomes apparent when one admires the celebrated maps of the Dutch printer Frederick de Wit, or the famous reproduction of Ptolemy’s world map. Although these maps, which were deemed authoritative in their day, could not be used for any modern day practical purpose, they provide invaluable insight into the world view of their creators and the societies in which they lived. In addition, the old world map is generally an embellished and decorative work of art; one that most collectors would be proud to display on their walls.

World maps of all types are available at every price point. Old world map reproductions are generally used for decorative purposes, and are therefore available in the form of high quality prints. For instance, the de Wit maps alluded to above were originally printed from plates. Long after the death of de Wit and the auctioning of his printing house, the plates were still circulating. Today, although a print made from the original plates would not be attainable, it is possible to find a faithful and high quality reproduction that was created through a combination of digital and traditional techniques. When looking for a high-quality print, do not just look at price point; request a certificate that states the quality of the print, along with the name of the printer, and the number of identical prints in existence.

There are many ways in which world maps can be displayed. The frame is the most traditional, and possibly the most elegant way of elevating any presentation. Opt for frames that complement the style of the map in question. For instance, if you wish to display a modern map, a simple and straightforward frame in a solid, neutral color would be appropriate. On the other hand, if you wish to frame a historical map that features intricate detailing and embellishments, consider looking for a more ornate frame style. Because of the detailed nature of maps, the glass should always be glare-proof.

Additional display options, for those individuals that prefer not to frame their art, include mounting techniques and tapestries. Mounted maps elevate the presentation without making it overly fragile. It is a sophisticated look that is minimalist and to the point. Depending upon how the work is mounted, it can also serve practical purposes. For instance, framed world maps with push pins present a mounted and framed work that facilitates the application of push pins for educational or tracking purposes. Unlike a regular paper map, this design is durable and maintains is appearance once the pins have been removed. It is also possible to find magnetic maps in this same style. On the other hand, a world map tapestry is a purely decorative style. Although these rustic maps may be quite detailed and accurate, they are intended for display purposes and not practical applications.

Displaying a framed world map, either in the home, office or classroom indicates not only a desire for learning or a particular aesthetic approach; it also pays homage to the human quest for discovery. The history of cartography provides great insight into the evolution of mankind, and there is no better way to appreciate that history than to display an aspect of it on your walls. Whether you are intrigued by historical maps, or attracted to the details of modern specialty maps, you will be sure to find the style and price point you are looking for.

Maps come in so many variations, too. There are maps readily available of the world, individual countries, states (United States), provinces (Canada), counties and even individual city maps. They show us our world in so many different views especially the ever-changing political boundaries, such as states and countries, and the much more static physical boundaries, such as mountain chains, rivers and land masses. Another perennial favorite is a map of the earth from space, which can create a sense of awe in the young and the young at heart alike.

Framed world maps can enhance the décor of a library or study. A room lined with old world cabinetry, filled with well-read books and warmed by a roaring fire just calls out for this genre of artwork more than any other. It is artwork, too. The lovely, muted colors and detailed keys all work together beautifully to create a masterpiece. Another traditional option would be a world map tapestry hung on the wall from a brass rod for a rich and classic look. In fact, hanging tapestries has been a popular design technique since the Middle Ages when they were used to warm up drafty castles.

Some interior designers, however, prefer to think a little more out of the box. Experts know that choosing to add a surprise element can lead to unexpected solutions. If you cover a wall in an extra large world map that has been applied like wallpaper, you hide the wall’s inherent flaws, add a focal point and create a decorating stroke of genius. In fact, the popular 1970’s trend that favored oversize wall murals of birch trees, autumn leaves and passive deer is experiencing a comeback. A large world map is an interesting alternative to nature scenes and infinitely more stylish and long-lasting.

Encourage your children to study geography by displaying a large world map poster in their bedroom, playroom or, for homeschooled children, in their classroom. Maps can encourage children to use their imagination to dream of faraway lands. Read books about different countries and report what you learned back to each other. In fact, using push pins to indicate where you have been, would like to go or have studied about is a great way to turn learning about maps and geography into a fun game. They will always have a ready source for their curiosity about the places in the stories they read, although Wonderland, Gulliver’s Island and Neverland will never be found.

Many amateur map collectors (jokingly called cartomaniacs) enjoy nothing more than the hunt for an old world map at a flea market on a Saturday morning but it is possible to buy great reproductions as well. In fact, many online retailers have an amazing selection of large world maps for sale, both antique and reproduction, that you just can’t find elsewhere.

Businesses have always  made good use of maps but recent printing innovations have allowed them to order custom maps of their sales territories inexpensively. Instead of framing them, many businesses laminate them and mount them directly to the wall of a conference room, which allows for the use of dry erase markers during strategy meetings. The sales staff uses these maps to motivate team members to increase sales and market share while the management staff can easily study boundary lines and transportation needs.

Where would America be without pizza delivery on Saturday night? It is a rhetorical question but the existence of oversize street maps is what ensures that your pizza arrives hot. Delivery drivers frequently consult the wall sized maps that show every street and alley within a five mile radius in precise detail to insure quick delivery.

A smaller version of a framed world map could be used as inspiration for the travel buff. Anyone who has a “bucket list” that includes travel to exotic locales can use such a piece as a visual inspiration. In fact, displaying daily, monthly and yearly goals, financial or otherwise, next to a framed map may be just the motivation one needs to meet and exceed those goals, especially if the reward is a trip somewhere warm.

In conclusion, whether you purchase your next large world map to create a new look, to solve a design dilemma, to teach your children, as a collector, for sales motivation, for pizza delivery or for inspirational needs, you will love it.

Framed world maps look great in any room of the home, in particular an office, den or formal reception room. More contemporary styles are perfect for children’s bedrooms. They also make fantastic, unusual gifts for someone who is interested in the world at large and loves to travel, or dream about travelling!

Early maps are typically rich in color with an elegance and beauty that draws people to them. In addition, they are great for providing information and satisfying the curiosity of those who want to learn about bygone days and the early explorers of the globe. For serious map collectors, the extensive range of old world map options gives them the scope to turn their interest into a real passion.

Old world map prints are a good place to start, particularly if you are on a limited budget. If you frame them yourself, they appear to be more expensive than they actually might be and look wonderful displayed on a wall. As well as the traditional map of the world, prints are available depicting the mapping of the heavens, the evolution of sea charts, early globes and war battle plans. So if you have a specific area of interest you can focus your collection accordingly.

Old world map fabric can be used to create all types of soft furnishings, such as curtains, cushions and bedding. If it is not enough for you to have an old world map on your wall, you can invest in a roll of fabric and start creating items to scatter around your entire home! If you are not confident in your sewing skills, hire a local seamstress who will be able to follow your instructions quickly and easily.

A world map tapestry in sepia tones looks fantastic in a classically designed study, library or great room and can create a real focal point in your home. For those who love the romanticism and history of an antique map, a tapestry is a perfect gift. A framed world map made of tapestry looks elegant and is a wonderful item to pass down through the generations of your family.

Kids who are interested in geography, history, and the countries of the world often have an old world map poster or old world map wallpaper in their bedrooms. These are not only interesting from a decorative point of view; they can be great study tools. Children will be constantly learning about the world as they are lying on their beds gazing at their wallpaper or poster. Their curiosity will be ignited and they will want to learn more about different cultures and societies.

So many types of map are on the market; if you are setting out on your mission to start collecting, the world is your oyster! The internet is a great place to check out what is available; search auction sites for good bargains and make sure you compare prices to ensure you are getting the best deal. Be sure to check out shipping costs and returns policies when you are shopping online. Maps are also available in department stores if you would rather see them before you buy.

An old world map has an antique look and vintage style. Predominantly brown in color with soft, neutral hues, it encourages the spectator to let their imagination consider the adventures of the travellers of ancient times. This style of map looks great when it is presented in a brown wooden frame and is often hung on the wall of a study or formal reception or dining room, but looks equally impressive in any room of your home that is decorated in a traditional style.

A large framed world map in a modern style is perfect for a child’s bedroom. Its bright colors and simple markings makes it easy for them to learn about the countries and oceans of the world, and helps to spark an interest in geography and travel. A framed world map with push pins can assist with school projects and allow the child to highlight places they have visited, or places they hope to travel to in the future. This type of framed map is available from department stores and many online retailers and is a fairly inexpensive option.

A world map tapestry is a unique interpretation of the traditional map. These products are reproductions of antique maps, normally created either in sepia tones or full color. They are elegant and eye-catching, and make a great focal point on a wall. A great room, den or home office is the perfect place to display such a map. It also makes a really interesting gift for someone who appreciates art and home decor but is difficult to buy for.

When you are searching through the selection of framed world maps, make sure you consider some important factors. Are you buying it for yourself or someone else? If you are buying it as a gift, try to go for the style that the person will appreciate, and make sure it complements their taste in interior design. This applies to buying one for your own home, too. If you have a really contemporary looking home, an antique style of map will definitely look out of place.

Bear in mind any budget limitations you have (although if you have your heart set on an expensive map you can take the time to save for it). Also, think about the style of frame as well as the map itself. The frame should match the other accessories in the room and be of good quality.

Research all your options for purchasing. Online stores and auction sites offer good discounts. Make sure you check shipping costs if you buy online, and know what the returns policy is in case you change your mind. It is a good idea to make a short list of items and then ask your family what they think of each one.

Finally, make sure you make use of your framed world map. It need not only be another piece of art on your wall that you walk past several times each day without more than a cursory glance. Use your map to learn about new countries, to inspire you to explore new parts of the world, and to encourage conversations about international issues.

The most popular tapestries of maps represent an old world map, like those first crafted by Dutch and Flemish cartographers. These men were sailors who had crossed the seas extensively, documenting the landmasses they encountered. For their time, these maps were distinctively accurate portrayals of our modern renditions. The coastlines of Africa and Europe were nearly exact while lesser explored regions like North America were somewhat distorted but South American representations were simply inaccurate.

The recordings Dutch sailors brought home were documented on parchment and eventually woven into fabric form for preservation. By having portrayals woven of a map, these early geographers guaranteed the enduring tradition in a medium that would long outlast more fragile paper products. At the same time, they created a form of art that would last, popularly, for generations. Geography, as a universal language is a popular topic for art all around the world — not ironically.

The world map tapestry wall hanging is an elegant addition to any room’s art display. Hand crafted editions command a high retail price while the age of machine manufacturing has lowered the cost for tapestries that are mass-produced. People who want to display one on their wall should choose between handcrafted and machine-made based upon cost and edition.

Each hand woven tapestry is a true work of art. They can take many years to create and every individual weaving has distinct variations that make it unique. By contrast, mass production creates a stock that is exacting — one product is not discernibly different from another, but many can be made each day and so, sold for more accessible costs.

Aside from deciding on hand fashioned or machine made tapestries, shoppers might want to consider world map tapestry fabric. The typical thread used to weave these works of art is wool, though cotton is no longer uncommon, even preferred for its durability and lower cost. The earliest tapestries were exclusively woven from wool. Many purists prefer to spend the extra money on traditional fabrics, but cotton is cheaper for those shopping on a budget.

Enjoying a map of the world as art for the home is a classic expression. Tapestries have a benefit over simple framed world maps though they are more expensive, even if purchased from a mass-manufacturing distributor. A framed world map can also be purchased as a rendition of old world drawings but nothing is as classic and enduring as the carefully woven threads through warp and weft.

Many other types of world map tapestry are available. The old world representations are the most popular, classic and enduring, but even modern political maps are available as weavings. The dynamics of early geography did, however, serve as a backbone for uniquely artful creation. Each passing decade led to improvements in how well people knew the actual shape of the continents and drawings shifted regularly to incorporate those changes. Modern appreciators of the science of geography and exploration, art aficionados, and everyone in between will enjoy tapestries of the world hanging in their home.

1. Memory test. Decide what you are going to learn today, whether it be names of all the major rivers in America (the ones on your world map poster anyway), all the countries in Africa, or the oceans of the world. Get stuck in an give yourself or your child a treat when they get them right. If you can, try to do it again the next day to make sure the knowledge stays in.

2. A clever little trick to help you remember a specific set of facts can really help. You can make them up a tongue twister to remember whatever you want.

The five main oceans are the Atlantic, Pacific, Indian, Antarctic and Arctic. The first letter from each word of this phrase relates to each one,

I Am An Amazing Person

3. How about the seven continents, North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa and Antarctica. Again, the first letter of this phrase is a reminder for each,

Eat An Apple As A Nice Snack

4. Work out the smallest number of countries and seas or oceans you would have to travel through or on to get round the world, or to get from one pole to the other.

5. Close your eyes and point to three different spots on the map. Make up a story linking the places, perhaps deciding on your modes of travel and the people you meet on the way. Good for a bed time story for your child and will get the creative juices flowing.

6. A game for two, shout out a city in one country or continent and respond with one starting with the same first name. You have five seconds to come up with an answer or you forfeit. That bit is up to you.

7. Guess the symbols. Does that little mark mean a lake, marsh, waterfall or reservoir?

8. There are loads of online map games available too. Example include guessing the name of a country with only the shape to go on, linking rivers to continents or countries, and guessing the capital given the country of vice versa.

9. For those days that the weather is uncooperative and you’re looking for indoor activities for kids, try choosing a country with weather you’d like to be enjoying and learn about it. This is great for older kids on school break.

Physical Map

The first of these three is called a physical map and it will show all the key physical features on the surface of the planet. Typically, these are coloured to broadly depict the true colour of the feature. The seas and oceans will be shown in blue, deserts as yellow, the snow and ice of the arctic as white and temperate regions of forest of grasslands as green for example.  In addition, the main rivers of the world will be shown, and major mountain ranges too.

In terms of identification, the names of countries and political regions would tend not to be included. Instead, the names of rivers, seas, mountain ranges will. Also terms that describe other specific land features will be incorporated such as the West Siberian Plain, the Great Plains in North America or the Plateau of Tibet. The names of islands will be marked and these may well coincide with a country name, but the former is being referred to. Examples include Iceland or Madagascar.

In short, a physical map most closely mirrors what you would see when looking out of the window of an aeroplane and can in itself be a thing of beauty.

Political Map

The second type of map that is commonly purchased is a political map, showing the countries or states of the world. These are represented by largely arbitrary colours but distinct enough to clearly show the boundaries between countries. They would also tend to show towns and cities.

Topographical Map

Probably the most often requested map is a topographical map. This shows all the key features of the surface of the world. In so doing, it tends to incorporate key physical features such as the ones listed above, as well as countries, cities and town. In addition, it will highlight important communication types such as roads, railways and canals. It may depict sub state boundaries as well as those between countries. It may go in to detail that includes national parks, reservations, reservoirs, lakes and waterfalls.

The topographical map therefore tends to represent most of the key features, either manmade or not, that can be found on the planet. As a single option for the world map poster on your wall, it is ideal.

If you think of the web of lines on a globe that is the grid of latitude and longitude, peeling them off a globe and sticking them on to a flat surface without altering their position or bearing to each other is actually impossible.

In fact, only the distance between two points OR the bearing, which is the direction of one point in relation to another, can be retained and accurately depicted on a map.

There are a number of ways that maps can be drawn to represent the world, each of which is based on a specific mathematical function defining the relationship of points on the map to each other.

The most common map is called the Mercator projection largely because it results in a rectangular which is suitable for presentation in a book or as a world map poster.

1. World climatology

Strictly speaking, there are in fact a variety of sub maps to this one. A key one will show the average annual precipitation across the globe. From this, it will be clear that areas around the northern part of South America, central Africa and South East Asia receive the most rainfall, as do the surrounding seas. Almost all these locations are found within the two tropics, the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. Northern Africa, the Middle East and parts of central Asia show evidence of the lowest precipitation levels, as does the Arctic and Antarctic.

A map of this type might also show tropical storm tracks. Other data that can be plotted includes atmospheric pressure at given times in the year, or annual evaporation.

2. World climate

This splits the world up according to predominant land type. For example, dry, polar or tropical areas, and cool or warm humid zones. Tropical zones are largely those described as having the most rainfall in section 1 above. These zones can also be related to the sort of food products with the most potential, both in terms of plants and livestock.

3. World Food

This might show areas where specific food types are produced, but could also be overlaid with information on food consumption levels or food export levels.

4. World Energy

Two classic data types that are plotted on a map depicting energy are levels of energy reserves by location and energy consumption.

5. World Minerals

Showing the distribution of key mineral deposits. Of course, the picture is far from complete. Little is known on the full make-up resources in many countries and huge swathes of the ocean beds have barely been touched.

6. World vegetation

Broad categories depicting vegetation by colour would typically include areas of tundra (with mosses and lichen predominant), prairies (with long grass), forest (with lots of sub types) and desert (cacti, grass and some shrubs).

Linked to this, and clearly interrelated are maps showing temperature, either as an annual average or at specific times in the year, or maps detailing soil type.

7. World Population

Exploring the density of human life and its distribution. Again, this might be typically depicted by different colours that relate to numbers of people per square mile or metre. A useful method which is often employed is to make higher population density areas progressively dark in colour. It is then much easier to pick out quickly areas on the map that meet this criterion. They tend to stand out much better.

Please feel free to view the selected world map posters below

Political World Maps — Physical World Maps — Antique World Maps

CLICK HERE To View The Full Range Of World Maps

A map of the world: I remember being very proud of a great Christmas present I received when I was a boy. A world map poster with countries coloured in pink, yellow, blue and green.

It was stuck to the wall above my bed, and I spent the next few months late at night trying to memorize as many of the capital cities as I could to impress my dad the next day.

I went on to read for a degree in international studies, so thank you to my parents for getting me started in that field early on.

If you have an old map of nation states somewhere in your cupboard you can refer to, it is amazing how different the latest edition looks compared with say thirty years ago. The fall of communism during the 1990s led to a massive upheaval in the geopolitical landscape and the birth or re-birth of a large number of countries in Eastern Europe and Asia.

That change would look relatively slight if you were to pick up and compare an antique world map poster with one of today. Consider the world during what was really an ever changing colonial era followed by the dawn of the true concept of nation states now firmly supported by international law.

Or are nations now drawing more closely back together. Take federalism in Europe, Hong Kong’s envelopment within China. Who knows, perhaps one day a united Korean Peninsula?

World map posters don’t necessarily have to represent political regions like these or the one from my youth.

A physical world map poster would typically represent the topography of the world, depicting mountains and oceans and their respective heights and depths, and would generally include major rivers and areas of aridity, vegetation and ice. This is the closest you get to the view of the world from the window of a plane, on a clear day of course.

The distribution of the world’s mineral wealth is extremely uneven. Maps are available to highlight the key concentrations across the globe. The purpose of the map will determine which minerals are recorded. One option would be to focus on minerals that have an associated economic worth. Examples would include iron, uranium, copper, gold, aluminium and diamonds.

In fact, pretty much everything that you can plot for globally has been converted in to a global map. World food patterns for example, precipitation or the abundance of energy resources.

To return to the days of our youth, you can also get some great presents for children. A huge puzzle of the world or a childrens world map poster with some of the best sights and features in each country to get them interested. They will be demanding their first atlas before you know it. Equally, as far as housewarming gift ideas goes, wouldn’t it be a nice option to fill the wall of a child’s bedroom or for a beautiful antique map to feature in the hallway or study.

Please look through some of the other articles on this site for more information before you decide on buying a world map poster, especially how different maps will depict different world features.