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Bettesworth Construction
cork board

How to Make Push Pin Wall Art: A DIY Cork Map or Display

Create a push pin map or display by matching a print to cork, adhering and smoothing it, then adding pins and suitable wall protection and hardware.

By Bettesworth Construction Team 3 min read
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To make push pin wall art, adhere a print to cork backing, let it dry, then use pins to mark places or decorate the design. Match the print and cork dimensions before gluing, smooth the paper from the center outward to limit bubbles, and check that the pin points will not reach the wall when the piece is hung.

Choose the backing, print, and finish

Cork is the usual pin-receiving surface for this project. You can use a framed cork board for a sturdier, finished build or cut cork sheets to a custom size. One tutorial recommends cork around 1/2 inch thick, but that is not a universal requirement; the right assembly depends on the pins you choose and the layers behind the cork. [Smiling Notes]

A map is a popular choice, but the same approach works with another print. Measure the print and backing, and make sure their dimensions match before applying adhesive. Smiling Notes used a 24 × 36 inch cork board and print for its own project; those are project dimensions, not a general sizing recommendation. [Smiling Notes]

Decide whether you want a simple unframed board or a more finished piece. A frame, fabric covering, painted frame, or trim can add a finished look. A foam-board layer behind the cork is one option for keeping pin points from reaching the wall. [Smiling Notes] [Homemade Ginger]

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Gather supplies

  • A print, such as a map, sized to fit the cork
  • Cork board or cork sheets
  • Spray adhesive or craft glue such as Mod Podge
  • A foam brush if applying craft glue
  • Push pins; colored pins are useful for marking categories
  • Optional foam board, frame, fabric, paint, or trim
  • Hanging hardware suited to the finished piece and the wall

Project tutorials use both spray adhesive and craft glue, but do not establish that one works better across different papers, inks, cork, or conditions. Apply adhesive sparingly and follow the directions on the product you use. [Smiling Notes] [Homemade Ginger]

Make the push pin wall art

  1. Size the cork. Measure the print and cut or select cork to match. If you plan to add a frame or extra backing, account for those layers before assembly.
  2. Prepare the surface. Place the cork on a protected, flat work surface. If using cork sheets, arrange them to the intended dimensions; seams may remain visible when smaller squares form a larger surface.
  3. Apply adhesive. Use a light layer of spray adhesive or spread craft glue with a foam brush. Follow the adhesive label for application and drying guidance.
  4. Attach and smooth the print. Align the print with the cork, then smooth it from the center outward to help reduce bubbles and wrinkles.
  5. Let it dry. Allow the adhesive to dry as directed before inserting pins or moving the assembly.
  6. Add pins and any finishing layers. Use colored pins to distinguish categories—for example, places visited versus places planned—or paint plain pins if desired. Add a simple legend if the colors need explanation. [Homemade Ginger]

Check pin depth and hang the finished piece

Before hanging, push a chosen pin through the assembled layers and check how far its point extends beyond the back. If it could reach the wall, add a protective layer such as foam board behind the cork. [Homemade Ginger]

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Choose an approach that suits your project

Choice What it offers Consider
Framed cork board A more finished, sturdy-looking base Confirm the print fits the usable cork area and account for the frame when selecting hanging hardware.
Cut cork sheets Flexible sizing for a custom layout Joints between smaller pieces may show; check the assembled backing for stability and pin depth.
Spray adhesive Used in a map-board project tutorial Follow the product directions; no comparative testing establishes it as better for every print and cork combination.
Craft glue Can be spread lightly with a foam brush Apply sparingly, smooth the print carefully, and allow it to dry as directed.
Simple unframed board A direct build with fewer decorative layers Plan how the board will hang and check whether pin points could reach the wall.
Decorated or layered board Allows a frame, fabric, paint, trim, or protective backing Extra layers change the finished dimensions and weight, so select hardware for the completed assembly.

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