New to Mapping!

[jfrazierjr]

Hello,

I am new here and was looking around to learn about different ways of making my own maps. There seems to be a lot of information available! Still not sure which software to use, as I was looking at CC3 but not sure if I want to spend the money and then fail.

Other than that, I am happy to be aboard and learn something new!

Shei

Welcome! I would suggest GIMP. It's free and can be used to make maps along with editing pictures and pretty much any artsy type stuff you can think of. At the very least, you can try something free and always pay for something else sometime in the future.

[sheilyn]

Is there a place where I can find info on making dungeons in GIMP? I've been reading through a lot of different threads, but seem to be having trouble finding one that talks about this specifically. I just want to start getting my feet wet, but also producing something that I can use. Or at least show off!

[industrygothica]

Is there a place where I can find info on making dungeons in GIMP? I've been reading through a lot of different threads, but seem to be having trouble finding one that talks about this specifically. I just want to start getting my feet wet, but also producing something that I can use. Or at least show off!

There may not be a specific tutorial on the subject (yet), but there are plenty of other generalized tutorials that can get you started, and there's always someone around here willing to help.

Honestly, your best bet is to download Gimp and just to give it a go. Post up what you've got, whether you think it's good or not, and people will offer plenty of suggestions on what you can do to make it better, and will typically tell you how to go about achieving the process at the same time. At least that's been my experience here. You just can't get defensive over the critique, because in the end you'll have a much better product to show for it.


-IG

[jfrazierjr]

Is there a place where I can find info on making dungeons in GIMP? I've been reading through a lot of different threads, but seem to be having trouble finding one that talks about this specifically. I just want to start getting my feet wet, but also producing something that I can use. Or at least show off!

I would suggest start by getting RobA's Subterrainian Map Prettier Script. Find a link to it and tons of other scripts here. Next is to get some textures(for the script) and some objects from where ever you can legally get them. rpgmapshare.com, cgtextures.com, gmsapprentice.com... I am sure there are others.

If you are new to GIMP, read follow RobA's tutorial for a Regional map. Even if you don't want or need a regional map or don't like the style it is a great way to learn a ton of things about GIMP in a short amount of time. And of course, I can't suggest my Layer Masks Tutorial enough

Create a work in progress thread in the appropriate forum and we will be happy to help with you on your progress.

[Korash]

I would suggest start by getting RobA's Subterrainian Map Prettier Script. Find a link to it and tons of other scripts here. Next is to get some textures(for the script) and some objects from where ever you can legally get them. rpgmapshare.com, cgtextures.com, gmsapprentice.com... I am sure there are others.

If you are new to GIMP, read follow RobA's tutorial for a Regional map. Even if you don't want or need a regional map or don't like the style it is a great way to learn a ton of things about GIMP in a short amount of time. And of course, I can't suggest my Layer Masks Tutorial enough

Create a work in progress thread in the appropriate forum and we will be happy to help with you on your progress.

I must agree with everything jfrazierjr mentioned here. Especially the bit about the script and tutorial by RobA. JF's layer tut is "adequate" as well . I would also add that Isomage has created a decent plugin for generating a random cave. Combined with the script, It is REALLY easy to create realistic cave that will blow gamers away. The script can work with any black and white floor plan as well.

Just a few suggestions to get you on your way

Glad to have you here