Five Star Gift Ideas

For your friend who is passionate about cartography and mapmaking, there are several thoughtful and unique gift ideas that you can consider.

1. Antique Maps: Consider gifting your friend an antique map that holds sentimental value or showcases a place of significance to them. Look for maps from different eras or regions that might pique their interest. They can be framed and displayed as beautiful décor pieces in their home or workspace.

2. Custom Map Art: Personalized gifts always carry a special touch. There are many online platforms that allow you to create custom map art based on specific locations. You can choose a place that holds significance to your friend, like their hometown, a favorite travel destination, or a place where you both have shared memories. This could be transformed into a stunning piece of wall art or even onto everyday items like phone cases or mugs.

3. Mapmaking Tools: Help your friend hone their skills in mapmaking by gifting them high-quality tools. Look for technical pens, drafting compasses, precision rulers, and specialty papers used in cartography. These tools will not only enhance their capabilities but also show your support for their artistic passion.

4. Coffee Table Books: Explore coffee table books that focus on cartography, exploring unique maps and their historical significance. These books often contain stunning visuals, detailed descriptions, and intriguing stories related to cartography. Some notable titles include "Atlas of Remote Islands" by Judith Schalansky or "The Phantom Atlas: The Greatest Myths, Lies, and Blunders on Maps" by Edward Brooke-Hitching.

5. Map-Based Jewelry: Jewelry inspired by cartography can make a unique and cherished gift. Look for necklaces, bracelets, or earrings that incorporate map designs or feature specific locations that hold meaning to your friend. This way, they can carry their love for maps with them wherever they go. Custom-made jewelry with coordinates or special locations can add an extra personal touch.

6. Workshops or Classes: Consider gifting your friend the opportunity to attend workshops or classes in mapmaking, cartography, or geographical information systems (GIS). This would not only broaden their knowledge but also provide them with hands-on experience and the chance to connect with other enthusiasts.

7. Subscription to a Geography/Map Magazine: Many magazines cater to the interests of cartography and geography enthusiasts. A subscription to one of these magazines would provide your friend with a regular source of inspiration, knowledge, and updates on the latest developments in mapping and geographical discoveries.

Remember, the key to a meaningful gift is to show that you have put thought into selecting something that aligns with your friend's interests and passions. With these options, you can celebrate their love for cartography and mapmaking while bringing a smile to their face on their special day.

Or you can get her/him a star map with the date when she/he was born.