How to Make Topographical Relief Maps

A topographical relief map is halfway between a map and a model. Instead of using contour lines to show elevation changes, a relief map actually has raised and lowered sections to model mountains, valleys, rivers and other features. A well-made topographical relief map is as beautiful as it is functional, showing a whole landscape in miniature.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Topographical map Paper Copier Computer Printer Scissors Pencil Cardboard Foam core Glue Knife Modeling clay
Topographical map
Paper
Copier
Computer
Printer
Scissors
Pencil
Cardboard
Foam core
Glue
Knife
Modeling clay

Step 1

Get a topographical map and pick out a simple feature. Mountains and hills are fairly easy to model, because they go straight up instead of meandering up and down. Enlarge the section you want to make a map of on a copying machine or scan it into a computer and print out that section.

Step 2

Trace the lowest contour line onto a piece of paper and carefully cut it out. Write the numeral "1" on it. Every fifth contour line has a number indicating its elevation on it. The lowest contour line is the one with the lowest number. On a hill or mountain, it will usually be the outermost contour line.

Step 3

Continue tracing contour lines on paper, cutting them out and numbering them from lowest to highest.

Step 4

Glue each piece of paper onto a piece of foam core or cardboard. Cut the boards into the shape of the paper. You may wish to use a knife instead of scissors for this step.

Step 5

Glue the board labeled "2" on top of the board labeled "1," the board labeled "3" on top of No. 2 and so on, until you've assembled your topographical relief map.

Step 6

Smooth modeling clay down over your topographical map to eliminate the jumps between elevations and give it a more natural look. You can use different colors for dirt, grass, snow, water or other features.

Tips & Warnings

Make a more complex topographical relief map out of several simple pieces. Build each mountain, hill and rise individually, then attach them all to a board.

Article Written By Isaiah David

Isaiah David is a freelance writer and musician living in Portland, Ore. He has over five years experience as a professional writer and has been published on various online outlets. He holds a degree in creative writing from the University of Michigan.

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