How to Flatten a Rolled Map or Poster

When we purchase a new wall poster or an oversized map, they're rolled up so that we can get them home. The challenge begins as we attempt to flatten them out. It's even more challenging if the map or poster has been rolled for months or years. Use the following steps to learn how to flatten a rolled map or poster.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Clear flat surface
• Books or items to use as weights

1. Take off the rubber band or tie that is holding the rolled map or poster together.

2. Smooth the rolled map or poster flat out on a clear table using books or other heavy smooth objects to weight the poster down.

3. Start at one end of the map or poster and roll it in the opposite direction of how it previously rolled for storage. Do this very carefully so that you do not damage or tear the corners and edges.

4. Secure the rolled map or poster with another rubber band or tie. Leave it in this reversed roll for at least 5 hours, preferably longer.

5. Flatten the rolled map or poster back out onto the clear table. Place the books or other heavy smooth objects back onto the map or poster to help with the flattening of the map or poster. Depending upon the thickness of the map or poster, you may have to leave it flattened out on the table for several days if it is being a bit stubborn to flatten properly.

Tips & Warnings

• After you have managed to get your rolled map or poster flattened, find a new storage option for it. Use oversized art portfolios to slide in the flattened map or poster. Another option would be to store the map or poster in a document box that is a large oversized flat box. Check with art supply retailers or art dealers for information in obtaining the correct size box you need.
• Use special care if your rolled up map or poster are one of a kind, antiques, are of a historical nature or are on fragile paper or parchment. Take these fragile items to a professional that deals with the preservation of antique maps or oversized historical documents to avoid damage.
• Don't use humidity or steam to flatten rolled maps or posters. This could lead to warped paper, damage to the printing or shredded paper.
• Don't attempt to iron the rolled map or poster to flatten. This could cause scorching or burning of the paper.