The Luckies of London designed the first scratch map in 2009. Initially, this type of map was composed of a scratchable aluminum layer covering the details of a map printed on a cardboard sheet. People used a coin or an eraser to remove the aluminum to discover the details underneath related to the trips they had undertaken.
Currently, scratch maps are wall maps made up of a top layer of “gold leaf” placed over a printed cardboard map with a solid coating. You only need to scratch the places you have visited to reveal the geographical details underneath.
The Best Scratch Maps
If you are here, it is probably because you are looking for a scratch map to give as a gift for travels or to spend some time.
The XXL World Map from W WANDERLUST MAPS
The XXL World Map is the best of the scratch maps. The map features a black background which distinguishes its design from other scratch maps. Each country is displayed in the colors of its flag.
Moreover, the set comes with a map of the United States or a map of Europe if you buy it online. You will also get tools for scratching. Finally, the Wanderlust XXL includes travel-themed stickers to decorate your suitcases or carry-on luggage during trips.
The World Map from Atlas & Green
The world map from Atlas and Green is also a scratch map with a black background. However, this map does not show countries in the colors of their flags. Enjoy scratching the states, regions, or countries you have visited.
Once you have scratched everything, you will have a map with watercolor colors and an artistic design. Upon delivery, the set includes a 42×29.7 cm map of Europe and a scratching kit as well as a magnifying glass for details. You will also have a cloth to wipe away scratching debris.
The Scratch Map from Maps International
Unlike the previous two, the scratch map from Maps International has a white background. This gives it a luxurious and classy design. This map shows many details once fully scratched. The map is faithful to the representations of each country with exact scale proportions. The only downside with this set is the absence of scratching accessories.
Scratch Planisphere from Benehacks
The Benehacks Scratch Planisphere is also not delivered with accessories like the previous ones. However, the map has a white background and silver for the countries. The map indicates interesting tourist destinations on its left side such as the Eiffel Tower or the Leaning Tower of Pisa. You can choose between four different colors as well as two languages: English and French.
Scratch World Map Poster from Bonanzana
This scratch map ranks fifth because it is also a scratch map with a black silver background. Its strong point is its price, which is much lower than those offered above. This map is very pleasant to scratch and shows realistic details such as countries, flags, and culinary specialties.
How to Scratch a Scratch Map?
After bringing your scratch map home, here are some important tips you should know to avoid damaging your scratch map. Be aware that if you use inappropriate tools, you will scratch your map and alter the colors.
- The toothpick: you suspected that the toothpick is very effective! It allows for more precision on the details of your card such as borders and road sections.
- Plastic card: This includes gift cards, credit cards, or loyalty cards. However, be careful not to use those that are no longer useful to you.
- Guitar pick: not everyone can have one, but if you have one at home, it’s an excellent scraping tool.
- Coin: this is the most classic solution adopted by many people. However, be careful not to scrape too hard.
Some tips:
- Avoid scraping too hard: this will remove not only the aluminum foil layer but also the printed layer. Scratch cards are a bit expensive, so be careful with what you do.
- Have a cloth handy: it is useful to prevent your sweaty hands from wetting the sheet and discoloring it.
- Avoid using sharp, pointed objects that can deeply scratch your scratch card. Among these tools: knives, pins, keys.
Finally, avoid rushing the scratching. Your scratch card should last a long time. So go step by step and for the debris: use a paper cloth or blow gently.
How to flatten a scratch card
When purchased, scratch cards are delivered rolled or in a tube for protection. So once you get home, you need to flatten it to hang it on the wall or put it in a frame.
Here are the steps you should follow
- Clean a surface slightly larger than the card to store it. This surface must be previously cleaned, flat, and solid.
- Start by taking the scratch card out of its container.
- Then, slowly unroll and place the card with the back visible and the printed side down.
- If the scratch card is difficult to unroll, don’t try to force it; moisten it a bit using a spray.
- For unrolling, do it in the opposite direction of the original roll.
- Once the card is placed on the flat surface, flatten it with heavy books, leaving it flat for several hours.
- Once done, you can arrange your card as you wish. However, if your card is not flat enough, repeat the treatment until it is done.
