THE LEARNING ARCHIVES
Whether you're creating maps for a novel, rpg, or just for fun, this collection of tutorials and map tips will help you create more professional and believable maps for your story!
How to Draw a Ancient Greek Ship
The sea stretches before you, the same wine-dark expanse crossed by Odysseus as he wrestled with gods, monsters, and the whims of fate. Greek ships like his carried stories across the Mediterranean for centuries, their painted eyes watching the horizon for both danger and destiny.
Sea Monsters - What Scale Should You Draw Them?
Do you want to draw some awesome sea monsters on your fantasy map, but aren’t sure what scale they should be? Should you go with a more realistic scale, or will they be too hard to see? Can you make them larger or will that throw off your whole map? But, is striving for “realism” negatively affecting the impact of your maps? Lets get into it!
How to Draw a Whirlpool Vortex
There is something mysterious about a swirling vortex of water that seems to be draining into the depths of the ocean. This is why a whirlpool or maelstrom is a compelling feature to include on your fantasy maps as it opens up so many storytelling possibilities. In this tutorial, I’ll walk you through some easy steps so you can draw your own whirlpool on your fantasy maps.
How to Shade Oceans & Seas on Your Maps
In this tutorial I want to show you how to give your oceans & seas a little more character. Not only will you get a nice painterly texture, but this method is also a great way to hint at the topography just below the water’s surface.