Aug 7, 2018 · I’m focusing here on the type of detail-rich reference map that I used to build, and the basemaps that I now build. Establishing a Hierarchy. A visual hierarchy (as distinct from a layer order) is the key to making a map work. That is doubly true with a complex reference map.

May 3, 2012 · Print maps and web maps require similar design considerations: start with a great story and authoritative source data, use the medium of your map to your advantage, and design the map with a specific user in mind.

Mar 12, 2018 · This tutorial uses the example of my map of the Mojave to outline a process for making one of your own, from data hunting all the way down to printing. It uses ArcGIS Pro, and does not go into detail about how to accomplish every single step, but instead gives an overview of the steps you might take.

Nov 15, 2024 · The Process of Map Making. Creating a map is a meticulous and creative endeavor that involves several stages. Let’s delve into the key steps involved in the map-making process: 1. Data Collection and Research. The first step in map making is gathering relevant data and conducting thorough research.

Dec 18, 2024 · Organize your data into categories or layers to make it easier to manage and visualize. By having a well-organized dataset, you can ensure your map is accurate and provides the necessary information to your audience. Step 3: Choose the Right Map Projection. Map projections are methods used to represent the curved surface of the Earth on a flat map.

Our goal is to cover important concepts in cartography and flag the important decision points in the map-making process. There isn't always a single best answer in cartography, and in those cases we've tried to outline some of the pros and cons to different solutions.

Building maps is both an art and a science. In this blog post, we’re diving deep into the world of map design. From typography to color schemes, each element in map design plays a key role. Steal these design ideas to elevate your map-making skills.

New and revised topics: how to do sketch maps, how map categories and symbols have changed over time, designing maps on desktop computers and mobile devices, human perception and color, and more. Separate, expanded chapter on map symbol abstraction.

Mar 24, 2025 · Cartopy is a library focused specifically on making maps (and is a particular favorite of mine). It’s especially effective for dealing with map projections and geospatial transformations, which makes it super useful for plotting maps of Antarctica centered around the South Pole. But don’t think it’s too specialized: it’s a great mapping ...

Jan 17, 2025 · The concept of modes shifts focus away from a singular, idealized map (and map making process) to distinct (but evolving and interrelated) map types and processes that are better understood free of the narrow, idealized context within which they are typically situated.