One day while going through my favorite store, World Market, I came upon these hanging letters reading out 'EXPLORE'. Immediately wanting them, I saw the price; $80! There was no way I was spending that. I then decided to make them. Turned out to be a pretty simple project.
Supplies:
Mod Podge is some amazing stuff!! You can find at Michaels. The only adhesive I used for the whole project, plus it's handing to have around. There are many different formulas but going with the original matte will work fine.
Cardboard letters from Joann. The smaller ones (pictured above) are $2.99, the bigger ones (the ones I used) are $4.49. I used coupons!
I chose a linen for the sides, Joann again. Since I was using the larger letters I got two yards for the length. There will be some left over but you need more for the length.
You can go to Walmart and get a pack for $7.00 of the world and U.S. map. I got all my letters to fit on the one world map.
Directions:
1. Place your letters out on your map to where you like (careful: if you do not want your map to be upside down, watch your placement.) Then trace with a pencil. Then cut out, give about a 1/4 inch bigger than the shape traced.
2. Mod Podge over letter. Line up pencil markings on the edge of the letter. Letting the sides hang over.
3. After all the letters are covered, go back and Mod Podge the edges, folding over to the side of the letters. Cut a slit in the corners and notches in the rounded sections so it folds over easier.
4. The letters were 1 1/2 inches wide. I cut 2 1/4 inch strips long ways. Then press 1/4 inch down, this will be your front edge.
5. Starting on a place on the bottom of a letter, begin adding Mod Podge. Place fabric down (it will hang over the back edge). Work around entire letter letting a little over lap where you began. Doing the inner holes of the 'O' 'R' & 'P' are tricky but just be patient, it's not too bad.
6. Once all letters are wrapped with the linen, then begin cutting slits and notches and Mod Podging down to the back just like the map.
7. Let dry for about 15 minutes. Then you are ready for hanging!
8. I used these velcro like strips for hanging pictures. One on top and one on the bottom.
This was a fun and simple project, I would love to see what you come up with. Please send me a picture of your creation. Feel free to ask me on anything! Good luck!
