In this hands-on class, students will learn how to create their own hand-drawn maps, focusing on the personal connection they have with the land they are mapping. Through a series of exercises and discussions, students will discover how to bring their unique perspective and experiences to their map making, resulting in a final product that is meaningful and representative of their relationship with the land. Some basic materials will be provided, but students must bring the below materials and are welcome to bring their own maps or reference materials to share. This course is open to all skill levels as long as you can trace a line. Mapping is for everyone! Please note that this course will take place in November, so be sure to dress appropriately for spending up to an hour or so outside at a time. We may go outside to map our surroundings in unique ways, such as creating a smell map or a pace map. The class is open to independent students aged 14 and up. Ages 8-13 are welcome if accompanied by an adult. They will complete one project together.

Required Tools

• Number 2 pencil or a mechanical pencil with extra graphite
• Eraser
• Small pencil sharpener
• Fine liner pen or two with black ink (Suggested: Micron 005, 005, 01)
• Colored pencils (at least two shades of green, one blue, one red, one yellow) or a set of watercolor pencils (these are more fun but you’ll need a brush (see below))
• 11x14 to 11x17 piece of clear acrylic 

Optional Tools

• Watercolor brush and cup if bringing watercolor pencils. I like using a water brush which is a watercolor brush that holds water in the handle.
• Watercolor paints, crayons or other coloring tools 
• Fancy yellowed or tan paper with texture to give a final piece a fun look 
• Triangle
• Clipboard
• A pair of compasses (drawing compass)
• Lettering guide 
• Expanding file organizer is nice to store your map making supplies and completed maps
• Sketchbook 
• Laptop or tablet to view maps and aerial photos or satellite images. Install Google Earth if you are going to use it this way. 

Tools that will be provided

• Tracing paper 8.5x11
• Carbon/Graphite Transfer Paper
• Masking tape
• A block of hot-press watercolor paper for the final project
• Extra white paper
• Rulers
• Scissors