Reuse An Old Globe For A DIY Storage Solution Travelers Will Love

Old globes can be beautiful decorative objects, giving a worldly sense of travel and adventure to any décor scheme. Even outdated globes, as the borders change, can be used as decorative details in the modern age. If you come across an old globe that is damaged or you don't want, consider repurposing it as-is to your décor. There are a number of creative DIYs online that transform an old globe into a stylish bowl you can use to hold faux flower arrangements, decorative accents, and other souvenirs from faraway places. The finished result can be a fun way to decorate a bookshelf, table, or mantel.

While these old globes are harder to find in the age of Google Maps, you may want to check out thrift stores, antique stores, and flea markets for inexpensive pieces you can work with. You may also have luck on Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist, which occasionally host schools, libraries, or public institutions looking to divest outdated globes. 

The first step is removing the stand or hardware from the globe and cutting it in half. Most globes are made from two cardboard halves placed together and wrapped in paper containing the map image, or they are fabricated from molded plastic. Drill or cut a hole in the center seam and use a knife or hand saw to cut around the seam to separate the halves. You may have some rough edges, but you can sand them or cover them later.

On the inside of the bowl, apply acrylic paint in your desired color. Great options include a shade drawn from the globe's exterior, like blue, green, or white. You could also add additional interest by adding decorative paper inside or decoupaging the interior with travel memorabilia like stamps or your favorite travel stickers. While the bowl is not ideal for holding food, you could line it with a removable plastic or glass bowl if you plan to use it for perishable items.  

Once the inside of the bowl has dried, you can create a more finished look by hot-gluing rope trim, ribbon, or other decorative details around the edges. You could also use tape, like CIAJIE Solid Foil Washi Tape or electrical tape, to customize it. This can also cover up any rips or fraying in the cardboard, paper, or plastic. For a more maximalist look, add wooden or glass beads around the perimeter for some extra texture and sparkle.

Create a base from your globe using the original metal base cut down to the necessary height, or use a simple wooden circular plaque and attach it to the base with hot glue so the globe stands upright. Other great suggestions for a base include vintage glassware, like an old ashtray or shallow dish that the bowl can rest in (or on when inverted). You could also use screw-in legs or a pillar candle base for a raised bowl. Or drill holes around the edge and add some twine or chain for a hanging decorative bowl you can fill with a faux plant. For a fun travel-themed decorating idea, attach the removed side with some small butterfly hinges like PATIKIL's Small Jewelry Box Hinges to keep the globe intact when not in use.