MAPCART

by Saman Goudarzi and Bronwen Glover
Illustrated by Kelly Penfold

Step 1.

Need a better way to move maps around? This manual will provide a solution to this problem.

Email with any questions you might have about this document.

Step 2.

Flat sheet maps should be supported at all ends to ensure their physical integrity. “Folding or rolling maps both shortens the life of the paper and exposes the edges to an increased potential for wrinkling and tearing.” [1. Andrew, Paige G. “A case for moving maps with care: A review of map trucks.” WAML Information Bulletin 28, (1996): 15 23.]

Moving many maps: Stacking numerous flat sheet maps on top of each other is not recommended. Stacks like these are not stable, so there’s an increased risk of the maps toppling over or slipping.

Instead, maps should be stacked on top of one another in a concave support. This way, their weight is still physically supported, and the risk of toppling is minimized.

How to achieve this: Go buy one! There are a small number of vendors that will take commissions for such carts. This can be a good option if you’re on a tight deadline and have the money to spend.

Step 3.

Alternatively, you can do what we did and build one. This can be a great option if you’ve got more time than money.

All you need is some  unbleached and undyed fabric so you can make a hammock for your maps, and a cart with arms that you can attach your hammock to.
Unbleached, undyed cotton is ideal as it ensures nothing will affect your maps. You can purchase such fabric at most fabric stores.
You can purchase a cart or truck from a hardware supplier. When selecting a cart, you should consider the following factors:

1. The cart’s size:
 - will it fit in your storage space?
 - will it fit in your elevators?
 - can it fit through doors?
 - is it large enough to support your maps?
2. The cart’s price
3. How easy is it to procure

We ended up buying an adjustable panel truck for $800 CAD from Global Industrial.

We chose this cart as its arms are adjustable, allowing us to configure the cart based on our needs. Additionally, the wheels can also be switched out if needed.

You can find similar carts from other hardware retailers.

Step 4.

Once you have procured your cart, it’s time to build your hammock. Make sure to first wash and dry your fabric to prevent future shrinking and to remove any undesired substances. Then, hem the edges of your fabric to prevent future fraying.

Next, sew Velcro onto the fabric.

The fabric should wrap around each arm of the cart and fasten onto itself. Therefore, consider the width of your cart’s arm plus 5cm when determining the placement of each Velcro set.

Step 5.

Assemble.

Hook the fabric to the cart to create a hammock. You’re now ready to move some maps.