What can you make with an old globe? Try this unique DIY bank

 

I have always dreamed of traveling the world.  At a book sale, travel guides were offered for 50 cents. I scooped up a pile and came home to think about how to make those dreams a reality.

Pulling the vintage globe off the shelf, I decided to create a bank to inspire me to save for those dreams. Upcycling a globe into a bank is a fun way to repurpose something vintage in a modern way!

What can you make with an old globe?

Are you an armchair traveler? Perhaps you already explore the world. This project is perfect for anyone who needs a little inspiration to dust off those suitcases.

For me, I plan to empty out my wallet each week and whatever is left, goes in the bank. At the end of each year, a trip will be planned according to the savings.

If you are worried that this is an unattainable dream, I encourage you to create the project and be surprised at how much can be saved!

This bank will be a decorative AND functional item, to spark your imagination to explore the world.

Globe Bank Supplies

• A World Globe
• 5/8 in x 1 7/8 in Decorative hasp (the locking clasp. Found at Lowes in the hardware aisle)
• ¾ in x 5/8 in hinges
• Drill
• Small lock and key (I used ones designed for suitcases)
• Very sharp utility knife
• Paperclip
• Jigsaw or Dremel

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Making a bank from an old globe

• Unhinge the globe from the stand. For this project, ours came unhooked by inserting a bent paper clip into the hole at the top (see picture)
• Make sure to set the tiny pieces aside carefully, you’ll need them later

• Securing the globe to prevent slippage, begin to cut along the equator with the utility knife. This globe turned out to have wooden components, so the knife didn’t completely work…
• If you are unable to cut the globe with the knife, a small jigsaw or Dremel works quickly. In retrospect, we would have done this from the beginning. I like to give you both options though, so that you can choose what works best for your project

• Once the globe is cut, choose a spot along the top portion and cut a slit to insert the money
• Reconnecting the pieces, required small hinges. Based on the circular aspect, putting two small hinges side by side allows it to open and close freely, and securely

• On the opposite side of the hinges, install the clasp to keep it shut. Take note in the supply list, these are called “decorative hasp”. They came with tiny nails, but we used the extra screws leftover from the hinges
• Reinstall the globe into the stand; add the lock and it is ready for its first deposit!

My dreams include a trip to Ireland and a river cruise along the Danube. I have about 58 House Hunters International shows recorded and have created an ever-increasing list of amazing places.

Your turn- Where would you go if there was nothing restricting your options?