printable map paper to be used for decoration/lettering? (scrapbooking, collection, making)

[haggardhouseelf]

Is there a place online where you may print out old maps? Or maybe a scrapbooking paper site where you can print out sheets of paper that are decorated with some kind of map art or something?

I'm creating signage and decorations for a fundraiser and there is absolutely no budget for materials...

I'm making some large lettering to go up on a wall (each letter being about the size of an 8.5x11 sheet of paper) and originally I thought I'd use old maps to cut the letters out of. However, I'm wondering now if there would be a way to print-out sheets of paper that look like old maps, then I could cut out the letters from those sheets... does this make sense?

I'd really appreciate any help anyone can pass along! Thanks so much!

(Also - here is one thing I have found which is great... but I thought I'd keep looking to see what else is out there...)

[harry chickpea]

Historic USGS Maps of New England & New York

Railroad Maps Collection

Getting the shape of letters is possible using many of the photo editing programs.

[haggardhouseelf]

Thanks Harry!

I have access to a plotter... I can print things out very big (much larger than a regular-sized sheet of paper)... so I'm planning on printing out the maps, then cutting out the large letters.

I appreciate your help!

[pinetreelover]

If you want to make them look a little more aged, soak the paper in strongly brewed tea for a bit to give them a naturally yellowed look. Lay them flat to dry.