A few weeks ago, we introduced our new golden world map crafted from genuine slate stone. Today, we're excited to offer you a sneak peek at our latest creation: the brand new silver world map, also crafted from authentic stone, but this time using marble.
Varied heights in marble
In our previous post about the golden world map, we took al look into why we opted for a stone topping for that gold-plated map. Similarly, for this new silver map, we chose a comparable technique with equally stunning results. Extensive testing was conducted with various types of stone for this silver map. Each stone sheet available on the market and suitable for cutting with our powerful CO2 laser underwent a few sessions of airbrushing in our workshop and thorough evaluation. After scrutinising several silver airbrushed samples, we reached a unanimous decision. The stone of choice for our new silver world map would be marble.
When one thinks of marble, the image of large polished slabs commonly used for tables, kitchens, and flooring tiles often comes to mind. However, nowadays, marble can also be processed into relatively thin sheets. These sheets consist of a resin onto which the marble is affixed after being broken from larger blocks. Once dried, one side of the sheet is covered with rough marble, exhibiting varying heights and a porous surface. Following our silver airbrush testing, it became evident that this specific characteristic lends itself perfectly to the aesthetics of the new silver world maps. The featured photo provides a glimpse into the impressive outcome. We are currently fine-tuning the engraving process for the country borders. At present, it appears that they will be engraved after each individual piece of the map has been airbrushed, just like our golden world maps.
Keep an eye out for the silver world map, which will soon be available in our webshop. Stay tuned for updates!
Maps made with brown marble
We've explored the endless possibilities of crafting a world map from various types of stone, yet one particularly well worth option remains unexplored: the marble map. Today, we'll delve into an example featuring brown marble, known as the Hawksbill Brown.
Unpolished roughness
When you say marble, the image that often comes to mind is of a polished surface, mostly one with a glossy finish. This is similar to the map we discussed in a previous post. The stone world map constructed from a solid 2 cm (approx. 0.8 inch) thick slab of Grigio Orobico marble, this stone map underwent the same polishing process as any other fine piece of furniture. However, a distinctive approach was taken with this particular map.
World map made with brown marble
Advancements in technology have paved the way for a novel technique: embedding various types of stone onto thin sheets of synthetic resin. By adhering rock fragments to this adhesive sheet, a thin layer of authentic stone is formed. Once fully hardened, the result is a slab of genuine rock suitable for wall decoration or further processing into furniture, among other applications. The featured map today was made with this innovative method, a layer of brown marble characterised by stunning veins ranging from light to dark brown.
Close-up photo slab of brown marble
Different thickness like real mountains
The key disparity between the traditional brown polished marble slab and the marble sticked to a synthetic layer lies in both surface finish and weight. Whereas a solid marble slab of this size weighs over 100 kg (approximately 220 pounds), a map created with this marble on a synthetic layer weighs just 3 kg (approximately 7 pounds). Additionally, while the massive marble has a glossy surface, the thin stone veneer possesses a really rough texture. Besides, this particular brown marble has notable variations in thickness, with the topping ranging from 1-5 mm (approximately 0.39- 0.59 inch). Upon closer inspection, these irregularities resemble authentic mountain formations, adding a captivating dimension to the map's aesthetic appeal.
Mega StoneCut world map
Most spaces are suitable for a regular-sized world wall map with a width of approximately 214 cm (7' 0.25'') and a height of approximately 117 cm (3' 10''). However, some are privileged to have large walls where they can install a truly expansive world map, one that nearly spans the entire wall. At MapaWall, they craft these magnificent world maps from a variety of materials. What's more, they ship them worldwide via UPS, making them practically available for everyone. This post focuses on one of these remarkable world maps: the StoneCut Hawksbill Brown XL, installed in Spain.
Installation template StoneCut world map XL
Bigger can be better for sure
Giant world maps can add a stylish touch to any space, whether it's an office or a private residence. A large map, like the one in this example, creates a striking impression on visitors as they enter the room, especially in case of this hallway. The larger-sized MapaWalls span almost 3 meters in width, approximately 10 feet, and stand at 160 cm (5' 1'') in height. As you can see from the photos in this post, these XL maps really set a new standard in size. However, it's not just the map itself that's massive; the included templates are also substantial. Two giant rolls of 1-meter-wide paper come with the map, along with all the necessary materials for easy wall mounting. Given that these XL maps are shipped worldwide, it's no surprise that the packaging is also sizeable. Whether the maps are crafted from wood, stone, or steel, the dimensions of the XL packages remain consistent. These dimensions are close to the maximum limit for shipping via UPS Capital (insured shipping).
StoneCut XL brown marble world map
Real marble on top of the wood
For some of you, StoneCut maps might be a new concept. Let me explain: StoneCut world maps feature a wooden base with a thin layer of real stone on top. These stone layers come in various types, including slate, limestone, quartz, and the brown marble from this example. While marble is often associated with polished finishes, the marble used for this world map is of a brown variety. Traditionally, stone can only be cut using a CNC router. However, this company has developed a groundbreaking method of laser cutting, which remains somewhat of a secret. This innovative approach allows them to cut through various thicknesses of stone, resulting in the most stunning world maps available on the market.
Close-up StoneCut XL brown marble world map
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Marble world map
The web never fails to bring the pinnacle of luxury, from extravagant cars to opulent home décor. Among these treasures are world maps transformed into stunning wall decorations, and at MapaWall, we've been at the forefront of crafting such masterpieces for over a decade. However, there was one exceptional creation missing from our repertoire until just a few years ago—the Rolls Royce of world maps: The MapaWall Stone, crafted from genuine Grigio Orobico marble. Each piece is cut using waterjet technology and polished to a glossy finish reminiscent of a precious gemstone.
Designed in The Netherlands, produced in Italy
With nearly a decade of expertise in cutting and engraving world maps, along with a lot of custom designs, MapaWall has established itself as a leader in high-end wall decorations. While our previous maps were crafted in the Netherlands using CO2 and fiber laser techniques, the idea of creating a map from authentic stone sparked a new venture for us. Teaming up with a Dutch stone supplier, we embarked on the journey of crafting a world map from solid stone—a feat achievable only through waterjet cutting. Recognizing the unique challenges of this endeavor, we collaborated with stone specialists in Italy to bring our vision to life.
Slab of Grigio Orobico marble cut by waterjet
Following extensive consultation and sampling, we prototyped the world map using a precious slab of Grigio Orobico marble, resulting in a breathtaking masterpiece measuring 0.78 inches (20 mm) in thickness. Despite its weight (almost 100 kg) and delicate details, the beauty of this stone map was undeniable.
Stone world map - north and south America
Upon its arrival in The Netherlands, we encountered some handling challenges due to its fragility. Nevertheless, the allure of this exclusive world map captivated a discerning buyer who recognized its unparalleled uniqueness. As the proud new owner, she entrusted us with the installation, leading to a stunning display of artistry (see photo below).
Stone world map installed on taupe wall
The creation of our inaugural stone map marked the beginning of a fruitful collaboration with our stone processing partners in The Netherlands and Italy. Through quite some refinement, we developed innovative techniques to enhance the strength of the stone, ensuring a broader reach and availability for clients worldwide. Explore the process behind crafting our stone world map and experience the epitome of luxury wall décor.
