Topographic World Map Art

In modern mapping, a Topographic map or topographic sheet is a type of map characterized by large-scale detail and quantitative representation of relief features, usually using contour lines (connecting points of equal elevation), but historically using a variety of methods. Traditional definitions require a topographic map to show both natural and artificial features.

The distinctive characteristic of a topographic map is the use of elevation contour lines to show the shape of the Earth's surface. Elevation contours are imaginary lines connecting points having the same elevation on the surface of the land above or below a reference surface, which is usually mean sea level. Contours make it possible to show the height and shape of mountains, the depths of the ocean bottom, and the steepness of slopes.

USGS topographic maps also show many other kinds of geographic features including roads, railroads, rivers, streams, lakes, boundaries, place or feature names, mountains, and much more. Older maps show additional features such as trails, buildings, towns, mountain elevations, and survey control points.

The phrase "USGS topographic map" can refer to maps with a wide range of scales, but the scale used for all modern USGS topographic maps is 1:24,000. That covers a quadrangle that measures 7.5 minutes of longitude and latitude on all sides, so these are also referred to as 7.5-minute maps, quadrangle maps, or “quad” maps (modern topographic maps for Alaska have a scale of 1:25,000 and cover a variable distance of longitude). Also each topographic map has a unique name.

Read more about Topographic map from the wiki page.

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So in this instructable I tried to make a Topographic Art piece of World map.

Here are some Basic Tools and Materials that I used for making this project.

TOOLS:

• Pen Cutter
• Mini Hacksaw
• Sandpaper
• Scale or Ruler
• Pencil
• Scissor
• Hammer
• Nails

MATERIALS:

• Multi-color Chart Paper
• Corrugated Cardboard
• Wooden Bead for the Frame
• Wood Glue
• Super Glue
• Color or Varnish
• Paper Tape

First I took a world map picture. Then divided into 2 parts, so that it become bit larger when printed.

Then make Print out of the world map in two different paper and joined them using paper tape. Also I draw and covered the missing parts by using a pencil.

Now I cut all the map parts using a sharp cutter. This is our main template, we will use this to mark other chart papers now on.

Our top and foremost layer will be the base layer. For this layer I used White chart paper. So, attach the template to the chart paper using some paper tape so that in won't move.

Now, draw the map lines using a pencil, (do this on the opposite side of the paper, so that it doesn't get dirty).

After that I removed the template and again cut the linings using a sharp cutter here. So our Top layer is ready now. Do the same with other layers.

I used the same way to mark and cut the other layers as well. For different layers I used a gradient color scheme of Bluish chart papers (but didn't find the exact gradient, so you may use single color gradient too).

Then mark and cut the next bottom layers.

In this step I used some corrugated cardboard to keep the chart papers straight and give a border and spacing between each layers.

This way a shadow will be cast upon all the layers and will bring depth to all our layers.

The Last layers of our map are very small in sizes here. So, I didn't used larger paper for them. I just added spacer and small papers of desired colors, that will cover the holes.

So, I have finished all the layers and added spacers also and all our layers are now ready for assembling.

Now, I added the layers one above another and it already took our topography form.

You can use any kind of Frame that is available to you of the same size, like a photo frame. I didn't have one, so I just made one.

For this I used some corner wooden beads and cut 4 pieces for each side at an angle of 45 degrees. My frame was rectangle ( 1 feet x 1.5 feet ) in size.

Then I glued the frame and joined by nails. Then finally I gave some Varnish coating as a finishing to the frame.

Finally All our parts now ready, just put the layers to the frame and it's finished.

So, I hope you have liked the instructable and also the art piece. Please comment below your views.

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