Early Map Production

Step 1
Rough sketches were generally produced by the client, showing the information required in the final map.

Step 2
From sourced base information, inked linework was drawn onto drafting film. At every stage of production all materials were registered using a 3 hole punch. Registration pins held the material in position.

Step 3
Using a film negative of the linework, the image is transferred onto "Scribecoat". A scribe tool was skillfully used to precisely etch the linework. At this stage the colours were separated. In this example the grid will be black and the coastline blue. Film positives are produced from the scribed sheets.

Step 4
Lettering was stuck up onto clear Mylar overlays. Again, the blue and black text are on separate overlays.

Step 5
The areas of colour are defined by masks. "Cut and Peel" material was laid over the inked linework and a swivel knife used to accurately cut around the area required. The red film was then peeled from the clear base to reveal the mask extent. A blue and yellow mask were used in this example. The area common to both masks will print green. The masks, sandwiched together with screens, were used to produce film positives.

Step 6
Final negatives of all text, linework and masks were produced and duffed for dust spots and scratches. These negatives were used to produce the printing plates used in the offset printing process.

Step 7
The final map