How to get the best out of your custom map
The smaller the area selected, the more dramatic the features will be on the map so for best results, we recommend limiting the size of the area you select. A large area will have to be scaled to fit all the features, meaning they will be smaller and less detailed.
For reference, the Snowdon example pictured on this page used roughly a 9x5.2km area. The map selector tool displays the horizontal and vertical distances in km.
How your map is made
-
1
Select
Select your area of significance using our online map selector tool above. Don’t forget to include the text you’d like to be engraved too! Add to cart, checkout & wait for an email from us.
-
2
Confirm
Within 1–2 working days you’ll receive a digital model of your chosen map via email. Please respond to this email confirming you’re happy with the proposed model. Once approved, your order joins our production schedule.
-
3
Carving
The approved model is sent to our CAD software, where the toolpaths are generated ready for machining. The walnut stock is then cut to size, secured in our CNC machine, and carved over multiple intricate operations from the single block of walnut wood. Each stage can take several hours, gradually revealing the detailed 3D landscape of your special place.
-
4
Sanding
After the CNC carving process is completed, your map is carefully machine-sanded to remove tooling marks. It then undergoes a process of meticulous hand sanding to ensure a smooth final finish.
-
5
Finishing
Finally, a wax finish is applied to protect and enhance the stunning American Black Walnut grain.
-
6
Delivery
Once cured, your finished map is packed in our protective black gift box and sent directly to you, ready to display or gift. Each map takes up to two weeks to complete from the moment you approve your design (Stage 2).
Why Black American Walnut Wood?
Black American Walnut is often called the king of North American hardwoods. Its deep chocolate-brown tones and striking grain patterns give it a natural luxury that few woods can match. Subtle variations in colour and texture mean every piece is one of a kind.
Strong, stable and smooth to the touch, Walnut machines beautifully and finishes with a rich, natural lustre. It is the wood of choice for fine furniture and heirloom pieces, which makes it perfect for our precision-crafted topographic maps.
When you hold one in your hands, you will be struck by the premium quality of this special wood due to the unexpected weightiness to the piece.
A map in Walnut is not just décor, it is a premium and enduring piece that becomes even more beautiful over time.
We use sustainably & responsibly sourced Black American Walnut for the maps.
Considerations before you order
- This is a custom item so is non-returnable.
- Being a natural wood product, the stock your map is engraved from is completely unique, and therefore will have a unique grain structure. This includes knots and imperfections, which may only be revealed after machining. Care is taken to hand sand out any significant imperfections, but ultimately it’s a wood product so will contain some uniqueness.
- Your selected map area is slightly larger than the finished piece so we can fine-tune the composition. Keep key features away from edges to avoid trimming.
- Production time is up to two weeks from the moment you approve your final model.
FAQs
What size is the map?
Each finished piece measures 190x135x42mm and will weigh between 500 - 700g depending on the area you select.
What’s on the back of the map?
We subtly engrave the back of each map with our logo, and the wood type & note indicating its made in the UK.
Is this ready to gift?
Yes, you can send this directly to a loved one. All invoices are sent digitally to you and not included in the box. However, please note at this stage we are not able to include custom messaging.
How long is delivery?
We advise up to 2 weeks from when you confirm via email you’re happy the 3D model we’ve created. Please see the step by step process for more information on what happens once you’ve placed your order.
Can you create cities or buildings in the 3D Map?
No. We only carve natural landscapes so please ensure there are some elevation changes to the area you select. Bodies of water will appear completely flat. Please contact us if you have any questions around this.
Can I return this item?
Unfortunately not as this is a fully custom made item. We will send you a mockup after the order is placed so you can get an idea of what it will look like, and production will only go ahead after final approval of this.