Pushpin Recommendations

We recommend pushpins to mount your map as the easiest, least expensive, and fastest way to get your map mounted so that you can enjoy it the same day you receive it. You can start out by using the usual plastic pushpins you might already have in your desk that have the nice grip on them. (See other mounting options at our mounting page.)

But then, order some better ones that will enhance the look of your map even more! You can put these in the same holes as you used for the plastic pushpins after you remove those.

First of all, a word of caution: Don’t use cheap plated pushpins. We have found that most of them have a very thin layer of brass or other material over iron or steel, and that they will rust after a time, which will stain the white border of the map.

So, make sure that the pins are stainless steel, solid brass, or, pewter. Yes, we have found a good source of lead-free pewter pins in a variety of very cool designs: leaves, tents, bear-tracks, footprints – you name it. They are probably our top choice, as they are sturdy, will not rust, and have so many cool design options.

The lead-free pewter pins we are referring to are from LapelPinPlanet.com. They normally come in sets of either 8 or 10, so you will need to order two sets, as the map requires 14 pins if mounted with the normal 24″ spacing. You might want to order two different styles, and alternate them along the map borders for a cool effect.

For example, check out the tent map pins at: https://lapelpinplanet.com/products/tent-map-pins Also use their search bar to search for leaves, bear tracks, hiking boots, moose tracks, and (human) feet to see other styles that hikers might be fond of. Most of their pins come in your choice of gold or silver, and we think the silver ones look best with the map, but it is your choice, of course.

Be sure to also search for “map pins” in the search bar at LapelPinPlanet. These are usually sold in sets of 10, as opposed to sets of 8 for their regular pushpins. But always check their descriptions to verify quantity. You might want to punch a hole first with a regular plastic pushpin with the nice grip handle, then remove it before installing the pushpins with the designs, as they don’t have as good a gripping surface.

Other sources where interesting push pins can be found are Etsy, eBay, and Amazon, and perhaps furniture supply stores, which sell upholstery tacks. But, make sure that whatever you buy is rustproof! We can’t be responsible for a rusting pushpin staining your map! In particular, stay away from the brass plated Hillman brand of tacks found at large home supply stores – we have found that these can rust quite easily.

Good luck, and if you find any particular pushpins that you think are high quality, please email us at [email protected] Thanks!