Create the Best-Selling 3D Laser Cut Map Ornaments – Perfect for Holiday Gifting!
As the holiday season approaches, we’re diving into our ultimate fourth-quarter seller: custom 3D city map ornaments. These charming ornaments are affordable, easy to make, and perfect for evoking warm memories. Imagine gifting someone an ornament that showcases a meaningful place they’ve visited or lived – it’s a sure way to make the season even more memorable! Let’s break down how we make these in a few simple steps.
Why 3D City Map Ornaments?
If you or your loved ones traveled somewhere special this year, these ornaments can capture those memories. With places that carry personal meaning, like a city, lake, or hometown, 3D map ornaments are more than decor; they’re heartfelt keepsakes that resonate. Plus, they’re hot sellers, so they’re great to stock up on if you’re a crafter!
Supplies Needed
For this project, you’ll need:
- 1/8 inch Birch or Walnut wood
- Double-sided adhesive tape for clean assembly
- Foxy Hues paints (to make details like rivers pop!)
- Ribbon, twine, and wood beads for added charm
- Starbond Thick adhesive for secure gluing
Step 1: Design Your Map
Using Laser Map Maker software, design the map for your ornament. This user-friendly program lets you create a map layout in just a few clicks. With the starter template, you’ll be designing ornaments in minutes! We chose Richmond, Virginia, and included important details like the James River and notable roads.
Step 2: Export & Prepare Layers
Laser Map Maker’s export feature creates three layers: land (cut), land (engrave), and roads. Each layer is saved as an SVG file, which we import into LightBurn. Set your ornament size (around 4 inches works great), and prepare to cut out each layer.
Step 3: Cutting & Assembly
Load your wood pieces into the OMTech Polar Laser and cut out your designs. After cutting, paint the back layer blue for water elements. Then, layer the pieces, adding double-sided tape for a flawless finish.
Step 4: Adding Holiday Flair
For that festive touch, add a ribbon, twine, and a bead. Make a cute bow to complete the look, then package each ornament in a cellophane bag with a holiday-themed cardstock insert. This presentation is as appealing as the ornament itself!
Step 5: Perfect for Selling
These ornaments can sell between $12-$15 individually or as bundles. Leaving a space for custom names can add value and make these items even more desirable.
Ready to get started? Try Laser Map Maker for a free trial, and craft ornaments that are both meaningful and profitable this holiday season. Happy crafting, and thank you to our amazing patrons for making projects like these possible!