Map Process
Understand Calligraphy Maps
Before a map can start to take shape you will need to decide what "size" you would like. Each type of map comes in Small, Medium, Large and Extra Large. The prices for these are in the Map Shop.
Even though you might want to print your map at 5 x 7, the smallest you will want to go with the initial size is small. Then each size above that gives you more space to add in additional illustrations.
Once you have figured out what size you would like, then you will want to scroll down the page for the step by step process.
Please note, the design fee is for a 100% perfect digital image. If you want the original, you are more than welcome to have it (shipping is extra though) but I do not guarantee that the original is without flaws or mistakes. I am able to edit a digital image but not an original.
Links:
How to pick a size:
Small: up to 8.5 x 11 inches. Up to 13 illustrations.
Medium: up to 11 x 14 inches. Up to 21 illustrations.
Large: up to 16 x 20 inches. Up to 28 illustrations.
Extra Large: over 16 x 20 inches. Unlimited illustrations
Note If you are getting prints, the map original will be sized so that it can be scaled to the final print dimensions.
Step by Step Process
1. Contact me by phone, e-mail, or contact form about your date and I can determine my availability for your event. Please include the number of locations or map size that you would like. Maps can be booked at any time before you would like them completed but to guarantee that I will be available you should booked approximately 4-8 weeks before your deadline and even farther out if you are getting custom printed booklets or envelope liners so there is time to order paper. There is a 25% rush fee for all maps ordered having a timeline of less than 2 weeks.
2. Please fill out the client questionnaire, located on the process page, containing an extensive list of simple questions about your event and stationery needs to help me serve you better and provide a more accurate estimate. It also requires photos of all locations and icons, plus directions on how to make a custom Google map. Please send it along in an email to hello@designsbyrobynlove.com . (You are responsible for sending me an updated questionnaire anytime you make changes. I am not responsible for changes sent in an email, as they are too hard to keep track of.) The map section is very complex. Please read it very carefully and answer it in as much detail as possible. The final product depends on your execution in expressing through words the style you want and also researching as many photos as you can of the location. If there is something on the questionnaire that you have no preference about, it is totally fine to leave that question blank.
3. From the answers on your questionnaire, I will be able to send you an estimated invoice stating the detailed costs of my services from what has been decided upon up until that point. If you are only ordering a simple digital map or prints, just go and purchase those items in the shop. A map design fee includes the digital image of a hand lettered and/or painted map. This map is yours to print as many times as you wish and on whatever you wish. But it may not be sold in any manner.
4. The full map design fee is due to set aside time on my calendar for the 7-10 day process. A 50% non-refundable deposit is required for prints, etc. Payments can be made via check, PayPal or credit card.
5. I will schedule your map in the first available spot on my calendar. I will contact you to let you know how many maps are ahead of you in the que and approximately how long I expect it will take. The map will only be worked on during the designated design time. I will be sure that any paper needed is being ordered during this time between your payment and the actual design time.
5. Once it is your scheduled time, I will look over your Questionnaire in detail and message you if I have any questions or concerns. I will make a digital layout for you to look over that just shows the placement of all of the locations and illustrations so that you can okay before I start sketching. We will go back and forth on the layout until it is totally ready to start sketching.
6. I will sketch, paint and then calligraphy your map in the 7-10 days of the design process, taking care that the paint dries fully between layers. Be sure to tell me in your questionnaire which of my font styles you want for the calligraphy lettering stage. They are viewed on the Fonts page. But I can always design a new font for you if you can’t find one you like.
7. Once I am finished designing and the map is fully dried. I will digitize it into the size and type of file that you ask for in your questionnaire. Then I will email it to you to look over. Please take your time to make a numbered list of any changes that you would like to see. Remember adding anything to the map after the design is finished that wasn't on the original questionnaire will incur fees, generally $25 per location, or $10 for small items.
8. All changes requested will be made and sent it back to you for review. Once you give me your approval, I will email over the final draft. If you want prints, they will be printed now, only after your approval and the arrival of any final payment.
9. Any prints purchased will be mailed to you via the chosen method.
10. When you get your calligraphy, make sure to double check for any mistakes right away. If the mistake is mine, I will redo free of cost. If the mistake is yours, it will cost the original price to reprint.