Make an open rectangular wooden box of the desired size. Using either hot glue or tacks, join the base to four pieces of wood about 1.5 inches by 0.4 inches in height making sure that the corners are properly sealed.
Draw the map on a separate sheet of paper the same size as the box. Write the name of each state and its capital, the Great Lakes and major rivers that run through a state and/or form its border with other neighboring states.
Tear old newspapers in tiny pieces and soak them in warm water overnight in a plastic container. Add art paste and stir the mixture vigorously with a wooden spoon to break down hidden lumps to a smooth consistency. Test the tackiness of the pulp by hand and add more water or paste if needed.
Transfer the map to the base of the box either by pasting the template as is or redraw it. Spread the pulp evenly, with a wide palette knife or a spatula across the entire land mass, including the Great Lakes. Remove pulp from the base thus exposing the winding course of a river that outlines the border of a specific state. Add more pulp to define the highlands.
Spray paint each state in its official color. Write the names of the states directly on the map with permanent, waterproof felt-tipped markers. Use an appropriate color to identify lakes, prairies and mountains. Apply a non-toxic all-purpose varnish, obtainable from any art supply store, for a final finish.