How to Make This Easy DIY Scratch-Off Map

Track your bucket list one state at a time with this fun, easy travel craft.

DIY Scratch-Off Map
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There's something about visualizing your travels that is both motivating and rewarding. Maybe there's a place you've always dreamed of visiting, and when you finally do, having a physical way to cross it off your list or, in this case, scratch it off a map, is so satisfying. It's a visual reminder of where you've been and where you still want to visit. Plus, it just makes for great wall art and a fun conversation-starter. Get ready for summer road trips with this easy DIY project that's kid-friendly and much cheaper than a store-bought version. Follow these step-by-step instructions on how to make your own.

DIY Scratch Off Map, Step 2

Photo by: Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Materials Needed

  • wooden puzzle map
  • watercolor paints + water
  • paintbrushes
  • clear wax crayon
  • dish soap
  • metallic acrylic paint
  • super glue
  • wooden frame

DIY Scratch Off Map, Step 4f

Photo by: Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Start with a blank wooden puzzle of the United States. Paint the states with watercolor paints in the colors of your choice. Don't worry about staying within the lines; you'll eventually remove the puzzle pieces.

DIY Scratch Off Map, Step 5

Photo by: Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Let the watercolor paint dry.

DIY Scratch Off Map, Step 6c

Photo by: Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Next, color a clear wax crayon over all of the states.

DIY Scratch Off Map, Step 9

Photo by: Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Then, mix together equal parts dish soap and metallic acrylic paint for the top coating. We used silver, but gold works great, too!

DIY Scratch Off Map, Step 10a

Photo by: Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Apply mixture with a sponge brush. Again, don't worry about staying in the lines. Apply two coats, and let dry.

DIY Scratch Off Map, Step 11

Photo by: Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Once completely dried, remove puzzle pieces and place onto a solid frame and super glue in place.

DIY Scratch Off Map, Step 13

Photo by: Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Use a penny to scratch off the states you've been to and to reveal the colors.

DIY Scratch Off Map, Step 14a

Photo by: Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

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