5 replies to this topic

[map maker]

This is the first map i made. Ive got no training, I even bought and read 'Illustator for Dummys' because i couldnt make heads or tails of the trial program as it was originally made for Mac.
It was very frustrating trying to get what i envisioned onto the page but I am fairly happy with the results. I probably broke some 'rules' in cartography but what better way to learn.
Its some property my father has that i made the map for, just as a novelty.
Love to hear the critic, trust me, i'm happy with it but know there is alot of improvement for my next map. I really struggled with the colours.
kinda crazy i do this for a hobby but if i enjoy it, so no harm done.

[Dennis McClendon]

I'd say you're off to a good start.

• I'd give the TCH a heavier line weight than the other roads. Or you might make it red and other roads gray or brown.
• The stroke at water's edge is a bit heavy. In fact, with colors these saturated, you don't need a stroke around the water at all.
• The typography is a bit over the top.
• I'd label Ontario in the inset map, and maybe add Toronto and Thunder Bay.
• I'd differentiate the provincial park as a different color green.
• Could use a scale bar, though the cross-water distances serve that purpose also.

[map maker]

ahh yes, I highly agree with all those.
I was more worried about the colors and overlooked those items that would make it alot more informative.
transcanada definately should be heavier. big oops

thanks for the tips. I do appreciate it.

[Jimbo]

The best way to learn cartography is to get training from a cartographer, in your case I would apply for Sir Flemand College or if you prefer a world class education the Centre of Geograpic Sciences. You already have an edge just by posting here.

[Casey Greene]

While I agree with the previous comments (especially using Papyrus), I think this is a great first map. Congrats, and keep on posting.


-Casey Greene
cbgreene17[at]yahoo

[MapMedia]

Well I admire your shutzpa in reading "Illustrator for Dummies' and posting the 1st map on a cartography forum for review
Whatever struggles you made with learning the drawing program, 'struggling' with colors and design should be chalked up to sweat equity.

You may google for a similar existing map that you admire, print it out and study it - find out why the map elements work, what map features are more prominent and why,
and why only certain features are included and others not included.

At first glance my eye is drawn to the yellow inset / locator map. I expect this is unintentional. Fonts, while you did choose an elegant font, you may find that a more 'standard' typeface is more readable.
Draw only the major hwys and enlarge the highway symbols.

Above all, mute the entire map and highlight the properties - maybe use an icon for these?

Keep at it. Chris