Easy DIY NYC Subway Map Ornaments

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When My sister and I created Double Arrow designs in 2013, you can read all about that here, one of our huge successes were our Easy DIY NYC subway map ornaments. I will show you how to make these for a great gift or an add on to your own tree. These DIY NYC subway map ornaments are so pretty on any tree!

How we got started using Subway maps

My sister, Nicole and I first came up with this idea originally when we used a NYC subway map to decoupage wood stools. They were real conversational pieces and sold quickly. The graphics on the map gave them such a unique and bold statement. We painted the sides in a complimentary red. Then decoupage black and white newspaper on the underside of the seat. The overall grey stain on the natural wood completed the look.

Using subway maps on easy DIY ornaments

We then decided to apply this process to unfinished wood ornaments that we bought at Michaels to make our first very own DIY NYC subway map ornaments. The process was so successful and they were such a big hit and were one of our top sellers.

DIY Christmas ornaments are easy gift ideas

These easy DIY NYC subway map ornaments are so unique, and when given as a gift, especially to a new yorker or some one who likes to visit or once lived here, they can be just that perfect gift. Also you can use any kind of metro map, an invitation, the options are limitless! It is totally up to you.

• wood ornaments or any object that you can cover
• Mod Podge– needed to adhere paper to object
• foam brush– easy to brush on and then wash for next project
• glitter– a little glitter goes a long way and makes anything festive!
• wired ribbon– helps to hold the shape, but also can use regular ribbon
• scissors– a must have tool!

Steps to making easy DIY NYC subway map ornaments

1. Print out, or ask for a local subway map- you can really use any type of map for this project.
2. Buy wood ornaments either in round, heart, or star .
3. Place ornament on desired area of map and use a light pencil to trace shape.
4. Do this for both sides, can be fun to have two different areas of the map on either side.
5. Make sure to have a clean work surface, I usually use my granite counter which is an easy surface to clean.
6. Use Mod Podge and coat ornament with a foam brush, then lay cut piece of paper map on wet surface.
7. Coat on top of this with another layer of Mod Podge and let dry.
8. Once this side is dry ( usually about half hour)do steps 5&6 on opposite side.
9. Use a wire hanger, to hang the wet ornaments while the mod podge is drying.
10. If you are using a wood ornament, you will end up with an unfinished gap from the thickness of your ornament. Two options I have used in past.
11. Either coat with Mod Podge then coat with desired color of 1. glitter, or 2. metallic paint color to finish this edge off. Either method completes the look, just depends on what you like.
12. When glitter is dry, I coat with a layer of mod podge. Which seals in the glitter and ensures less glitter flake off
13. Thread a wired ribbon through to create a loop. You can also use non wire ribbon as well.
14. Tie in a bow at top with same wired ribbon to add an extra detail.

CHRISTMAS ACCESSORIES

There you have it! an easy DIY Christmas Ornament all ready to package up for a perfect gift! Below are accessories that will put you in the Holiday mood. Happy Shopping!

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1. Maison Dried Botanical Wreath– Love this non traditional colorway
2. Santa Claus Doormat– Such a fun and whimsical welcome for the holidays
3. Hit The Slopes Pillow– Accessorize your living space with this fun seasonal pillow
4. Macrame Greeting Card Holder-This boho inspired card holder can be used all year long
5. Christmas Tree Skirt, 48 inches Cable Knit Knitted– Cozy up your tree with this cable knit skirt
6. Christmas Tree Skirt 48 Inch Rustic Tree Skirts White Snowflake-Love this neutral skirt that goes well with any decor
7. Pine Cone Floral Table Christmas Tree– Great table top Tree

Non DIY Christmas ornaments

Not everyone can take the time to create an ornament. So I always try to include non DIY options. Check out my picks below for some cool and unique ornaments!

1. 2021 Painted Glass Ornament– a symbol for a special year
2. Monogram Unity Ornament– personalize these ornaments
3. Italy Map Ornament. Or choose your place to personalize an event
4. Paper Mache 3 Piece Ball Ornament Set– beautifully colored orbs
5. Christmas honeycomb ornament– set of 5! love this crafty ready made ornament
6. Avocado Toast Glass Ornament– quirky fun conversational piece!

RELATED POSTS

Some additional Holiday posts that you may find interesting and useful.

• New years Eve Free Printables!– never too early to prepare for this celebratory holiday!
• How To Make Honey Balls– One of my most favorite recipes- make a batch and wrap as a gift
• 5 Fun Holiday Wine Tags -Free!– Need a quick gift? use these labels to wrap up a bottle of wine

Share DIY Christmas ornaments!

I always love to see what others are creating! Please share with me your DIY Christmas ornaments in the comments.