1. A Map of the World Book

I’m kind of obsessed with maps, especially maps as art. I’ve even posted a whole blog on the maps and globes we have around our house (I think our collection has doubled since that post too!). Anyway, I am loving this book of maps that has been illustrated by a variety of designers.

While Google Maps and GPS systems have become our tools of choice for navigation, contemporary maps have evolved into platforms for cutting-edge illustration, experimental data visualization, and personal visual storytelling.

See more images and purchase the book here.

2. Newsprint Vendors

Thoroughly enjoyed this post on Nubby Twiglet… I love these behind the scenes posts! She generously shares her printing vendors, and I hope she knows how appreciative we all are of her for that! And I have actually wondered quite a few times how to print a newspaper, especially since the Design*Sponge blog started their newspaper a few years ago.

3. A Kid’s Guide to How the Internet Ads Work

Pretty cute animation on how ads work on the Internet! Designed by illustrator Dominic Owen and animator Will Samuel, commissioned by the Internet Advertising Bureau in the U.K… found via swissmiss.

4. Make Your Own Typographic Art

I love making custom artwork for our home (did you see my DIY wall art earlier this week?)… especially when it comes in large oversize type! Ever since my first college class in typography, I’ve never looked at letters the same. Each one is a piece of art in itself and once the letter or number is blown up and cropped, it because so abstract and a completely different shape. Anyway, enough gushing on the beauty of type….

I am a huge fan of A Beautiful Mess’ DIY projects! HUGE fan… especially when they first unveiled using engineer prints (seriously awesome cost effective way to print big!). This new DIY project though plucks at the inner middle schooler in all of us, didn’t we all make collages out of magazines when we were 13?? But who would have thought to scan and print these ransom note-like letters into large scale pieces of art for the home! See the whole tutorial here.

5. 9 Tips for Better Jumping Photos

Okay, I’m obsessed with all the creations that come from A Beautiful Mess… so yes here’s a second feature on them! But this post on acheieving the perfect jumping photo, along with the history of the jumping (aka jumpology) photo had me smiling from ear to ear!

1. Ticketmaster Ticket Redesign Concept

I just adore personal projects… the detail and passion behind them really shines through every time! Hey Ticketmaster! Check this out!

Dear Ticketmaster,
It is time to redesign the master of all tickets.

From the size to the reformatting of information, it’s truly a great new look. Created and designed by Medium, found via designworklife’s Quick Links.

2. First Birthday Infographic Invitation

I’m amazed at this birthday invitation for 2 reasons… 1. How awesome would an infographic be for your baby’s first year… what a great way to remember all the little firsts and victories in their lives… and 2. how in the world did this baby’s mama have time to create this special little momento? Kudos to her! [Another find] via designworklife, designed by Misty Manley.