How Do You Create A 3-D Map?
The natural or physical features that comprise the landscape of a geographic area are shown on a topographic map. While the landscape is three-dimensional, most maps depicting the landscape are two-dimensional and use colors or other symbols to show variations. Topographic maps that are 3-D are more realistic and demonstrate the layout of the land clearly. With the right materials, you can create your own 3-D map. Identify the parameters of the geographic area you are going to map–a county, state, region or country. Begin your topographic map by drawing the outline of the land area you chose on the center of a sturdy, flat piece of cardboard or thin plywood. Leave a 1- to 2-inch border around the map. Designate the various landforms-mountains, plateaus, plains, lakes–with markers. Make a papier-mâché mixture by combining 3 cups of water with 1 cup of wallpaper paste. Once the mixture is smooth, begin your map by dipping newspaper strips into the paste to create your building medium.
