Our materials
What your map is made of.
Four honest materials do all the work: birch plywood, PVA glue, water-based paint and tung oil. Here’s what each one is, and why we chose it.
The timber
Every layer is birch.
Every sheet in the stack, from the face of the map to the backing, is cut from 3 mm birch plywood. No shortcuts hidden at the back.
We use birch because nothing else does the job as well. It’s strong and light, so even a big map hangs easily. The grain is fine and even, so the laser cuts a crisp, clean edge on every coastline. And the pale face takes paint beautifully, which is what makes the blues of each depth layer sit so true.
It’s also a timber we can source sustainably, which matters to us as much as how it cuts.
Layer by layer
Four honest materials.
Birch plywood
The structure. Grown slowly in the cold forests of northern Europe and imported as 3 mm plywood, birch laser-cuts to a crisp, clean edge and holds its shape well against moisture. Strong, light, and with a fine, unique grain that the oil later brings to life.
PVA glue
The bond. Every layer is fixed with PVA, the same wood glue furniture makers have trusted for generations. Low in toxicity, easy to work with, and it sets into a bond that’s stronger than the timber around it.
Water-based paint
The colour. Two coats of water-based acrylic on every ocean layer. Low in toxicity for your home, and tough against scratches, knocks and everyday moisture, so the blues stay true for decades.
Tung oil
The finish. A food-grade oil, worked into the timber by hand. It deepens the grain, gives the birch its warm glow, and adds another layer of protection against everyday moisture.
Wood, glue, paint and oil. Pretty much everything else is handwork.
Why it matters
Chosen to be kept.
It lasts
Solid timber, sealed and finished by hand. We back every map with a full 3 year guarantee on craftsmanship, and we build them to outlast it by decades.
It’s honest
The grain stays visible and the layers are there to be seen and touched. No veneer pretending to be something it isn’t.
It’s considered
Water-based paints, sustainably sourced timber, and every piece made in our Auckland workshop rather than shipped from a factory overseas.
Built to last. Guaranteed for 3 years.
If you’re not happy when your map arrives, or any time in the next 3 years, let us know and we’ll make it right. Good materials make that an easy promise to keep.
Browse the rangeKeep it looking its best.
Good materials don’t ask for much. A dry wall, no harsh sun, and a light dust now and then. Our care guide covers it in two minutes.