Five Star Gift Ideas

For your cartography and mapmaking enthusiast granddaughter, there are many thoughtful gift ideas that can inspire her passion and support her hobbies. Here are some suggestions that combine creativity, education, and practicality:

1. Map-making tools: Invest in high-quality map-making tools such as a precision compass, durable rulers, various types of pens and markers, and a detailed map scale. These tools will allow your granddaughter to create more precise and intricate maps.

2. Map puzzles: Encourage her problem-solving skills and geographical knowledge with map puzzles. These puzzles are not only entertaining but also provide an educational experience, helping her develop a deeper understanding of different regions and countries.

3. Antique maps or prints: Consider purchasing a vintage or antique map of a location that your granddaughter finds fascinating. These beautiful and historical pieces can be framed and displayed in her room or study, inspiring her imagination and appreciation for cartography.

4. Map-themed books: Look for books that explore the art and science of cartography, the history of maps, or contain stunning maps and atlases. One recommendation is "The Art of Map Illustration" by James Gulliver Hancock, which showcases different map-making techniques and provides inspiration for creating unique and artistic maps.

5. Travel journal or sketchbook: Encourage your granddaughter to document her journeys and map her adventures with a high-quality travel journal or sketchbook. Look for one with blank pages, allowing her to draw and annotate her own maps as she explores new places.

6. Online map-making courses or workshops: Help her further hone her map-making skills by enrolling her in online map-making courses or workshops. There are several platforms offering classes on digital cartography, GIS (Geographic Information System) mapping, and even traditional hand-drawn map-making techniques. This will not only add to her knowledge but also provide an opportunity to connect with other map-making enthusiasts.

7. Subscription to geographic magazines: Consider gifting your granddaughter a subscription to a reputable geographic magazine such as National Geographic or GEO. These magazines offer a wealth of information about different regions, cultures, and natural wonders, often featuring beautiful and detailed maps.

8. Customized map art: Commission a custom-made map of a significant location in her life, like her hometown, a favorite travel destination, or a place she dreams of visiting. This personalized map art can be tastefully designed and framed, serving as a unique representation of her interests and connection to specific places.

Remember to wrap your gift thoughtfully, perhaps using map-themed wrapping paper or ribbon to complement the theme. Ultimately, the most meaningful gift is one that recognizes and supports her passion for cartography and mapmaking, inspiring her to continue exploring the world through art and geography.

Or you can get her a star map with an important date you share.

Elaine Bornemeier says about Under Lucky Stars star maps:

“These are fabulous. They are gifts, so excited for my daughters to receive them for Christmas! Thank you!”