How to Convert a Map to a Sketch Using the Computer

Go to your favorite mapping site., Open the map screenshot in a software program that supports layers., Add a layer above the map screenshot. , Then reduce the visibility of the map screenshot., Draw in the parts of the screen that you want to use...

10 Steps 1 min read Medium

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Step 1: Go to your favorite mapping site.

    Bring up a map of the directions or location that you want to render as a sketched map.

    Take a screenshot of it.
  2. Step 2: Open the map screenshot in a software program that supports layers.

    Suitable programs capable of doing this include:
    Photoshop, GIMP, Paint Shop Pro.

    Inkscape also supports layers.

    Another free program for would-be artists is MyPaint. ,, Be sure that after reducing the opacity of the map screenshot, you go back to the other layer to do your sketching on. , You can also copy and paste names of location in new layers.

    Be sure to add some obvious reference points in your sketch. ,, delete original map layer and share your results.

    You can either print them off or send them to people by email.
  3. Step 3: Add a layer above the map screenshot.

  4. Step 4: Then reduce the visibility of the map screenshot.

  5. Step 5: Draw in the parts of the screen that you want to use.

  6. Step 6: Periodically

  7. Step 7: while drawing the sketch

  8. Step 8: hide the layer of the screenshot to check your progress.

  9. Step 9: Once complete

  10. Step 10: Reset back the visibility of the layer.

Detailed Guide

Bring up a map of the directions or location that you want to render as a sketched map.

Take a screenshot of it.

Suitable programs capable of doing this include:
Photoshop, GIMP, Paint Shop Pro.

Inkscape also supports layers.

Another free program for would-be artists is MyPaint. ,, Be sure that after reducing the opacity of the map screenshot, you go back to the other layer to do your sketching on. , You can also copy and paste names of location in new layers.

Be sure to add some obvious reference points in your sketch. ,, delete original map layer and share your results.

You can either print them off or send them to people by email.

About the Author

D

Deborah Gibson

Experienced content creator specializing in lifestyle guides and tutorials.

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