Trouble installing assets in Wonderdraft?

ByTiffany Munro

Some Common Wonderdraft Asset Installation Problems


Where to find Wonderdraft assets folder on Windows, Linux and Mac?

A brief note on installing assets in Wonderdraft’s folder, which can be found at

On Windows: C:UsersuserAppDataRoamingWonderdraft

Or, on Mac, /Users/username/Library/Application Support/Wonderdraft/

Or, on Linux: /home/username/.local/share/Wonderdraft

These folders may be hidden by default on your operating system. Remember to check the option to view hidden folders if you can’t find them.

Duplicate Folder Problem: I can see an asset pack in WonderDraft’s asset pack list, but no assets are appearing when I activate the checkbox and restart the program

When installing on Windows, if you use Windows default unzip program it creates a duplicate folder. This will cause an asset pack to appear but no assets to be populated in Wonderdraft. Remember to move the folder inside of that duplicate folder into the assets folder. If your assets don’t show up, do this.


In our example, it should be “This PC > Local Disc (C) > Users > My Username > AppData > Roaming > Wonderdraft > Assets > Ti’s Space Ships 1 > sprites > symbols > .png files here”

Missing Base Folder: I can see an asset pack in WonderDraft’s asset pack list, but no assets are appearing when I activate the checkbox and restart the program

Assuming you have .png files, font files or a name generator. This means you are missing the base folder that holds all of the assets!

You want your asset path to look like this in Windows:

“This PC > Local Disc (C) > Users > My Username > AppData > Roaming > Wonderdraft > Assets > Ti’s Wonderdraft Fonts > Fonts > (font files here)”

Not like this:

“This PC > Local Disc (C) > Users > My Username > AppData > Roaming > Wonderdraft > Assets > Fonts > (font files here)”

In the second example, which is incorrect, Wonderdraft is finding an asset pack named “Fonts” and doesn’t know that the font files are fonts because they are appearing 1 early in the Wonderdraft folder structure.

File Too Long Error

If you get this error and the program crashes on opening:


This means some of the file names are too long for Windows to parse. It has a 256 character limit for the whole string. Let the creator know they need to shorten their file names and reupload. Opening Wonderdraft when a file name is too long can cause Wonderdraft to crash.

You may correct this error by using 7-zip instead of Windows to unzip the folder, and by unzipping onto your desktop or directly into C drive and then moving the folder into the Wonderdraft folder.

Brushes Folder

When installing brushes, place .png files directly in the brushes folder. If the brushes folder does not exist, you can make it. This goes into the Wonderdraft folder, not the assets folder.

Place it at Wonderdraftbrushes and it will give you stamps that you can use over your terrain and water.

Example pack with brushes: Ti’s Ink Ground Texture Stamps for Wonderdraft

Themes Folder

The themes will give you preset elements for the water, ground, color, vignette and font settings in Wonderdraft. Anyone can save their own themes, but people you share themes with will need all the textures set up exactly the same as you to use htem.

When installing themes, remember to place .wonderdraft_theme files directly into the themes folder. Themes go in the Themes folder in the Wonderdraft folder, not the assets folder.

Example pack with themes:

Ti’s Fog and Cloud Symbols, Assets and Themes

Ti’s Solar System Maker for Wonderdraft

Ti’s Battle Stations! for Wonderdraft

Wonderdraft Assets Folder

The Assets folder can contain the following folders:

  • Sprites
  • Textures
  • Fonts
  • Names

Make your own Name Generators:

Name Generators go in the assets folder and should be a comma formatted list formatted like so:

%sna,Alto
%sborg,Ar
%sjour,Beause
%sberry,Car
%sman,Car
%sill,Church

Where %s is the last syllable and after the comma, the first syllable. You can make this in Notepad or Excel or any word processor of your choice.


Sprites Folder

The Sprites folder can contain the following folders:

  • Symbols
  • Mountains
  • Trees

Each folder should contain a subfolder named for what series it is (such as Symbols > Space Ships.png files). Mountains and trees will select and cycle randomly from the folder contents on each click and Symbols will select one symbol as shown as a stamp.

Example pack of symbols: Ti’s 10 Colorable Compasses for Wonderdraft

Textures Folder

The Textures folder can contain the following folders:

  • Water
  • Ground
  • Boxes
  • Frames
  • Paths

Each folder should contain appropriate .png files for what kind of asset is in it.

Water and Ground should be fully seamless square .pngs. Check out this example of a seamless texture asset from Ti’s Battle Stations! for Wonderdraft


Note that it flows both horizontally and vertically without creating any seam.

Making Paths for Wonderdraft

Paths are a horizontal seamless .png ribbon, seamless on the horizontal edges but do not have to be seamless on the vertical edges.

Example pack:

Ti’s Revenge of the Roads: 88 Pathways, Rail…

Ti’s 146 More Roads for Wonderdraft

Ti’s Water as Paths for Wonderdraft

Making Frames for Wonderdraft

Frames should be a square frame with a hole in the middle, such as shown. Example pack:

Ti’s Geometric Frames for Wonderdraft

Ti’s 84 Frames for Wonderdraft


Packs shown in example folders:

My Journey Crafting Dark Fantasy Asset Packs

Byatypikk

** This article may contain some gore elements **

As the cool embrace of autumn descends and the leaves transform into a haunting shade of crimson, the siren call of Halloween echoes through the air. It’s a time when the realms of darkness and fantasy seamlessly merge, creating an otherworldly allure. What better way to celebrate this enigmatic holiday than by immersing yourself in the macabre and the mysterious? Step into a world of demonic and eldritch horrors, ancient curses, and unsettling landscapes with three exceptional asset packs that promise to turn your fantasy maps into chilling works of art. Whether your goal is to craft a realm inspired by a demonic atmosphere or by Lovecraftian terror, venture into the grimdark aesthetics reminiscent of Bloodborne and Elden Ring, or infuse your creations with vintage gore and battle remnants, these packs are the keys to unlocking the hidden horrors lurking within the depths of your imagination.

Take a look on these three horrific assets packs by clicking on each image respectively!

              

I’m excited to guide you through a personal exploration, unveiling the complexities and inspirations that lie beneath the surface of three of my darkest creations.—a series of asset packs designed to plunge fantasy map enthusiasts into realms steeped in darkness, horror, and grim fantasy. Join me as I share the unique blend of historical influences, fantastical elements, and personal anecdotes that shaped these haunting collections.

As I embarked on this creative endeavor, my goal was to infuse a sense of antiquity into my work, drawing inspiration from the cryptic symbols found on ancient maps. Imagine exploring the dimly lit forest of history and discovering Lovecraftian horrors lurking at every turn. That was the essence I aimed to capture in each asset—a balance between the mysterious symbols of yesteryear and the eerie unknowns of the fantastical.

Inspiration from Lovecraftian, Creepypasta Horrors and dark fantasy video games:

H.P. Lovecraft’s cosmic horrors and the spine-chilling narratives of creepypasta became my guiding lights, guiding me through the shadows of imagination. Delving into their eerie tales allowed me to inject an atmosphere of dread and the unknown into every asset. Picture wandering through an ancient, forgotten library where forbidden knowledge intertwines with fantastical realms—that’s the essence I strived to evoke.

My love for atmospheric video games, especially titles like Dark Souls, played a pivotal role in shaping the aesthetic of these packs. The thick variations in lines, imperfections inspired by vintage maps, and haunting visuals akin to traversing the dark corridors of a virtual world were integral to creating the illusion that these assets hailed from a bygone era.

The Art of Hatching & Solid black techniques :

To capture the shading techniques of historical maps, I delved into the art of hatching with varying line densities. Picture an artist meticulously adding shadows and details, one stroke at a time, to breathe life into an ancient masterpiece. That’s the essence of the hatching technique—a meticulous process that not only added depth to the assets but also paid homage to the fine craftsmanship seen in maps of yesteryear.

Choosing solid black shadows was also a deliberate choice to instill a sense of darkness, foreboding, and strength into the assets. Imagine standing on the precipice of the unknown, with shadows looming, waiting to reveal the mysteries that lie beneath. Solid black shadows became a powerful tool, heightening the eerie ambiance and making the maps not just unsettling but visually commanding.

My inspirations :

During the creation process, I found myself immersed in tales of horror and mystery, occasionally losing track of time as I created fantastical nightmares. Consider the nightmarish visions depicted in Hieronymus Bosch’s “The Garden of Earthly Delights” (c. 1490-1510) or the mysterious cartographic works of Olaus Magnus from the 16th century. In the realm of fiction, the unnerving landscapes of Mervyn Peake’s “Gormenghast” trilogy (1946-1959) stand as a testament to the enduring allure of dark fantasy. These historical and fictional touchstones served as beacons, guiding my creative process.

Conclusion:

In crafting these asset packs, my journey was one of immersion into realms of darkness and mystery. The spectral influences of Lovecraftian lore, creepypasta tales, and haunting video game aesthetics fused seamlessly with vintage map techniques, the art of hatching, and the strategic use of solid black shadows. Step into the shadows with me, where every stroke of the pen tells a personal story of darkness, and let your imagination wander through the eerie landscapes crafted with this unique collection.

Underdark Bridge

ByEpsilon7430

I woke up Sunday morning with a hankering to build and share a modular bridge with an overhead arch, and of course the bridge needed a showcase map. This little project proved to be a lot more enjoyable than trimming a hedge and raking up leaves.

The bridge matches my Modular Dungeon assets.

Assets used:

The assets and map below are downloadable for personal use (right-click, save image as…).

Bridge tile: 8×2, 128ppi

Underdark Bridge Asset

Arch overhead tile: 1×2, 128ppi

Underdark Bridge Arch

Underdark Bridge Map: 10×10, 128ppi

Underdark Bridge Map

Sample of arch configured as an overhead tile in Foundry VTT:

Underdark Bridge FVTT Sample

PeaPu Talks: Why we archive packs

ByPeaPu

^A horrifying sight if there ever was one^

You may (or may not) have noticed packs that suffered this cruel fate. While I cannot speak for other creators (their reasons could be insane for all I know), I can give you an explanation as to why I archive packs. This is going to be a semi-long talk, so if you want you may skip to the bottom where there’s a TL;DR.

Also, Hi! Pu from PeaPu here, if you ever contact us, I’ll likely be the one responding 🙂
Recently, we archived a few packs of ours on CA, 6 in fact. 
– PeaPu’s Fishing Assets Full [Archived] -> Token part updated here
– PeaPu’s Fishing Assets Free [Archived] -> Token part updated here
– PeaPu’s Industrial Assets Full [Archived] – > Updated version here
– PeaPu’s Industrial Assets Free [Archived] 
– PeaPu’s Modern Vehicles Full [Archived] -> Updated version here
– PeaPu’s Modern Vehicles Free [Archived] -> Updated version here
I guess it’s 3 if you don’t count the free versions.

More packs will be archived in the future. Why commit such an atrocity, you may ask? As much as it pains me to admit, our work isn’t perfect, far from it in fact. And each pack has its own unique issues. However, the more assets we make, the better we become. I like to believe that we have now firmly established our ‘Battlemap Assets’ style. [1] Sadly, this means that our old packs, aren’t quite to the same standards as the new ones. 

For example, the issues the original Industrial pack has:
– Very thick line art (about 5x as thick)
– Poorly tileable assets (inability to snap them together in Dungeondraft)
– Colorability issues (asset wasn’t able to be changed in color)
– Inappropriate assets for the pack (vehicles and city assets were mixed in the battlemap stuff) 
– Uncompressed files (taking up more space than necessary) 
– Scale much larger than existing one ( we currently try to abide by a more realistic scale (256px:256px = 5ft:5ft = 1:1 grid unit)) 
– Messy line art (bits poking out where they shouldn’t) 
– Had tokens as objects (dynamic living humans)

Naturally, while these issues exist, it does not make the art unusable, and many, I am sure, really like the pack for what it was. It sure did sell well. 
However, [2] we want to make sure all our packs are of an equal level of quality, at least to the extent that we can make it so. The conclusion is obvious – the old bad stuff has to go.
This means that we do our best to replace the packs we deem outdated! So if one pack disappears, it is likely to reappear bigger and better than before. 

↓Take a look at the difference between our old (left) and new showcase(right).↓
You may notice some assets missing and some new ones in the showcase. The new one also doesn’t show the patterns (that’s page 2).While smoke and shipping crates (left) are cool, the smoke is part of the Modern City 1 Pack and the shipping crates were originally a city map asset… So they had to go.

Our showcase style is also evolving a little bit. I’m trying to make sure all the assets have a similar scale on the showcases instead of assets being resized randomly (e.g. one is 100% scale the other is 150%)

Additionally, I’m trying to color-code the showcases. 
– Blue = Modern
– Pink = Cyberpunk 
– The rest… I’m still working on…. 👀

Below a closer asset comparison that shows some of the problems I mentioned, particularly the line art.Above and below. one can see how in the new style the different assets underwent different types of modification.
(The token is from our Post-Apoc Tokens 2 pack, as a size reference). 

Above (Old left, New right) Here for example the bike actually became thicker in the new style, that’s because the line-art became consistent with the other assets. 
Above an example of poor scale (top old, bottom new) the orca at the bottom is now more realistically sized (closer to 30ft). 
Although I guess orcas can grow between 20-30ft… Regardless, you get the point! Stuff was rescaled!

Packs like the fishing pack weren’t as bad in terms of line-art but they still suffered from poor scale, and an odd mixture of assets. We had fishermen tokens mixed with dead fish-life, mixed with fishermen gear, mixed with live fish. A theme is present, but it doesn’t work well for how we’ve decided to separate our packs. Nowadays, Tokens/vehicles have their own separate packs since they’re usually dynamic subjects and best suited when made in a format for Virtual Table Tops (VTTs), that is formatted to the .WebP format and exported sized via a 1:1 ratio. 

Speaking of scale, our tokens suffered quite a bit from scale issues. But this topic is a bit more of a subjective one. Creators tackle scale in different ways. So here’s a question for you: How do you prefer your tokens? As pog/portrait tokens? Isometric bois? 2D figures? 2D figures looking up? We create our tokens as 2D figures looking ahead (so face isn’t visible). Quite similar to Forgotten Adventures, whose style, in this regard, we tried to emulate. However, herein lies the problem with emulation, sometimes you take what you shouldn’t. For us we took their style of scaling – filling up a good section of the 1:1 grid unit space. This made maps which were made closer to the realistic scale (5ft x 5ft = 1:1 grid) look incredibly silly. Monsters that were meant to be bigger way bigger than humans looked average, spaces more cramped. In short, we didn’t like it! So we set out to change it.

Below a small comparison of different token styles ours included
(deZigner, and Forgotten Adventures = awesome creators! Check ’em out!) 
Above you can see the change between the old and new scale, some tokens were just horribly oversized (black ninja boi) 
And below you can see how larger monstrous/vehicle tokens looked in comparison to the different scales.
Having realistically-sized tokens really allows the more monstrous/large to shine. Before it seemed like the humans were on equal  the monster, but with the rescale, oi oi oi, they’re in trouble! 

An important note to mention, as of today (2023/07/09) only the the 4th and 1st Cyberpunk token packs were rescaled, the rest are still undergoing that process. I plan to do a major update on CA once the set is complete, (hopefully, the tokens won’t require archiving). 

This brings me to the real reason why archiving is actually done. [3] This is because unfortunately, the site functionality doesn’t quite allow for it in the easiest way. Simply speaking when you create a pack you create slots for downloads. Those slots can’t hold a file larger than 64MB (can’t just put everything in one big zip file). I can only update these slots once the pack has been published, since previous purchasers won’t get access to any content I put into new slots. So, it often makes more sense to just rerelease the pack with a fresh coat of paint and some extra goodies. While this may seem unfair to previous purchasers, currently we have the policy that if you purchased a pack that got updated, you will get a coupon for a 100% discount for the new one. Thus, it’s almost like the update is hassle free. The only catch here is that you have to contact me and provide me your order number for the old pack to get the coupon. This is again due to technical limitations, that hopefully will be overcome in the future. 

TL:DR – Why we archive packs.
[1] Our old packs had problems (thick/inconsistent line-art, objects for wrong theme, tokens not in a token pack, bad scale, etc…)
[2] We care about our customers (if you bought an archived pack, you get old one for free (reach out to us if you did))
[3] CA doesn’t allow updating a pack very well, archiving and republishing a new one works better sometimes. 

This is my first post here on CA. Hopefully, the first of many more. It may be a little messy, getting used to this format. 
~~ Had to take down a coupon code here, cause it was bugggyyyy~~ :'( 

Old Cartography top down city buildings representations

Byatypikk

Today, I am thrilled to share with you the story behind the creation of my latest endeavor—a versatile asset pack designed for fantasy maps across diverse eras.

The genesis of this project lies in the enchanting allure of antique maps, drawing inspiration from masterpieces crafted by renowned cartographers throughout history. Maps such as John Speed’s 1610 depiction of London became the cornerstones of my creative journey. Delving into the intricacies of these historical maps, I aimed to replicate their symbols, structures, and unique characteristics, infusing them with a touch of fantasy to captivate modern imaginations.

I’ve always found fascination in the evolution of maps, recognizing them as invaluable tools for navigation, exploration, and storytelling throughout the ages. One particular genre of maps that captivates my imagination and has gained widespread popularity among enthusiasts and fantasy aficionados is the top-down city map. These intricately detailed depictions of cities, featuring buildings, landmarks, and natural features, have solidified their place as a cornerstone in the realm of fantasy cartography. To seamlessly capture the aged charm of antique maps, I embraced the challenge of recreating imperfections present in works such as Joan Blaeu’s 17th-century maps of Amsterdam. Time-induced fading, subtle erasures, and weathering effects were meticulously replicated, utilizing distressor brushes to add nuanced touches that contribute to an authentic aesthetic. In this article, let’s delve into the historical significance of top-down city maps, exploring their role in both ancient and modern cartography. Additionally, I’ll shed light on the meticulously crafted assets and themes offered by the Old Cartography Top Down City Buildings & Local Map Assets + Theme Megapack.

You can take a look at the pack here (click on the image):

wonderdraft buildings local map assets, old cartography

Top-down maps, with their aerial perspective, have a long history dating back to ancient civilizations. In ancient Greece and Rome, city plans were often depicted from a bird’s-eye view, allowing viewers to visualize the layout of cities, temples, and other significant structures. These maps served practical purposes, aiding in urban planning, defense strategies, and the establishment of religious centers. The Old Cartography Megapack embraces this ancient style, capturing the charm and essence of these historical representations.

The Middle Ages witnessed a surge in the creation of fantastical maps, blending real-world features with imaginative elements. Medieval fantasy maps often showcased castles, city walls, and meandering roads, evoking a sense of adventure and mystery. The top-down buildings, temples, wells, and other assets found in the Old Cartography Megapack perfectly complement the creation of medieval fantasy settings, allowing mapmakers to transport viewers to a world of knights, wizards, and mythical creatures.

While medieval fantasy is a popular genre for top-down city maps, the assets and themes provided by the Old Cartography Megapack are not limited to any particular era. The pack caters to a wide range of historical settings, including ancient, modern, Renaissance, and beyond. Whether you’re creating a map for an ancient civilization, a bustling modern metropolis, or an idyllic countryside, the pack offers a diverse selection of top-down buildings, landmarks, and natural features to suit your needs.

One remarkable aspect of the Old Cartography Megapack is its dedication to emulating the style of antique maps. The use of vintage pointing hands, carefully crafted city walls, and the inclusion of elements like fields, crops, rocks, and mountains enhances the overall aesthetic, immersing viewers in a nostalgic world. This attention to detail not only showcases the talent and expertise of the mapmakers but also enables creators to transport their audiences into a rich and captivating narrative.

Conclusion:
In the realm of cartography, top-down city maps hold a special place, both in historical representations and the realms of fantasy. In the creation of this extensive asset pack, my passion for antique maps, coupled with a commitment to authenticity, has been channeled into a collection that invites users to unleash their imagination. Whether you’re crafting city maps, regional landscapes, or envisioning fantasy realms, this pack serves as a universal toolkit. Elevate your maps, tell your stories, and let this remarkable collection transport you and your audience to a realm where the charm of antique cartography lives on.

Epsilon7430 First Anniversary Celebration

ByEpsilon7430

On June 29, 2022, I became an RPG asset pack creator with the release of my modest first pack, Astral-Ethereal. Twelve months on, I reflect on somehow finding the muses and the time to create 29 novel packs, all while holding doAstral-Ethereal Pack Promo Personalwn a full-time day job!  Check out the Anniversary Bundle which includes the 27 priced packs.

Being a Wonderdraft and Dungeondraft user, I mainly make assets for use in those tools, and for map outputs to be used in tabletops like Foundry VTT which can take full advantage of HD art.  I’m a big fan of the semi-realistic art style and most of my Dungeondraft assets fit that style, though I have experimented with other styles in some packs (e.g., Horror Terrain Pack).

Epsilon7430 Terrain Bundle 1 Cover Image

My 10 terrain packs were created using Quadspinner’s Gaea software, with some significant post-processing in other art tools to produce consistent style and variations.  What started as classic rock terrain soon evolved into wastelands, horror landscapes, and inevitably blood and bones (see the Terrain Bundle); even the Enchanted Terrain Pack was partly created in Gaea.

The mainstream arrival of generative AI image tools in late summer 2022 inspired the Architect’s Pack, which grew to become a very popular 5-pack series for Dungeondraft, plus two accessory pacBuilder's Bundle Promo Image Personalks, and the Sci-Fitecture Pack.  Creating these involved using a combination of hand-drawn templates for walls, floors, and objects, enhanced with AI inpainting, and finished with extensive post-processing.  They were labours of love.

During this past year I’ve found that the most enjoyable phases of pack development are 1) creating the final promotional art using the new assets (who doesn’t want to make a map?), and 2) writing an entertaining pack product introduction (without the aid of ChatGPT).  In my admittedly biased opinion, the three packs with fun, stand-out intros are the Builder’s Bundle, Architect’s Pack 4, and the Enchanted Terrain Pack. 

Creating all 29 packs over the past year has been a rewarding mix of hobby and work, and I encourage anyone thinking about creating RPG map assets to just go for it!

Time for some acknowledgements:

  • Thanks to White Fox Works for producing amazing assets to fill the rooms in my promotional art.
  • Thanks to Nexoness for providing CartographyAssets.com and for being a supportive host.
  • Thanks to members of the CartographyAssets creator community for their advice and support, especially Ti (Feed the Multiverse), Turambar, PeaPu and Moulk.
  • A huge thanks to Baileywiki for his fantastic how-to Dungeondraft tutorials and for profiling my art in at least two of them (check out this Reddit post).
  • A tremendous thanks to Anzhc for giving me the opportunity to playtest his topographic assets, and for introducing me to Gaea and generative AI image tools.
  • And a very special thank you to all of my customers who purchased my assets and are making amazing maps with them!

Thank you for a great year!

Epsilon7430

Check out the Anniversary Bundle which includes the 27 priced packs

Epsilon7430 First Anniversary Bundle Promo Image Personal

Introduction to the Steampunk Genre and Its Potential Representation in Fantasy Maps.

Byatypikk

Maps have always been a fascinating medium for capturing the imagination and showcasing the wonders of the world. From ancient cartography to the fantastical realms of fiction, maps have evolved to include elements that captivate our minds. In recent decades, the genre of steampunk has emerged, intertwining Victorian aesthetics with futuristic steam-powered technology. This article explores the significance of steampunk airships, cities, towering giant robots, and other captivating elements within the realm of fantasy maps, drawing connections to ancient cartography and fictions.

You can take a look at my Steampunk pack here (click on the image):

The Essence of the Steampunk genre
The Steampunk genre is a subgenre of science fiction that combines the industrial and technological advancements of the Victorian era with futuristic steam-powered machinery. The style often features anachronistic inventions like airships, steam-powered robots, and intricate machinery. Steampunk settings typically evoke a sense of adventure, mystery, and exploration within a reimagined Victorian or industrial backdrop.

Ancient Maps and Cartography
Ancient maps were not only practical tools for navigation but also works of art and storytelling. While they may not have directly featured steampunk elements, they provided a foundation for the imaginative world-building we see in modern fantasy maps. Ancient cartographers relied on artistic representation and symbolism to convey information, often incorporating fantastical creatures, mythical lands, and legendary landmarks into their maps. These elements allowed maps to transcend their practical purpose and transport viewers to wondrous realms.

Fantasy Maps and Steampunk Elements
Modern fantasy maps have embraced the steampunk aesthetic, incorporating elements that evoke the charm and intrigue of the Victorian era. Steampunk airships, with their majestic balloons and billowing steam, grace the skies in these maps, becoming symbols of exploration and adventure. Cities and towns are transformed into bustling metropolises with towering buildings, factories emitting steam, and intricate train stations connecting different regions.

The inclusion of towering giant robots and mechacities in fantasy maps not only adds an element of awe but also reflects the fascination with mechanization and the blending of human ingenuity with machinery. Steampunk flying machines, hot air balloons, and zeppelins further contribute to the sense of wonder and exploration, giving the maps an otherworldly atmosphere.

The Role of Steampunk Elements
Steampunk elements in fantasy maps serve several purposes. They provide visual interest, evoking a sense of wonder and excitement for those exploring the map’s terrain. Steampunk assets also help establish the setting and atmosphere, transporting viewers to a Victorian-inspired world where technology and imagination intertwine. By combining historical and fantastical elements, these maps invite viewers to embark on grand adventures and discover hidden treasures.

Examples from Steampunk Fiction
The Steampunk genre has gained popularity through various works of fiction, further fueling the fascination with its aesthetics and technology. Classic novels such as Jules Verne’s Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea and H.G. Wells’ The War of the Worlds offer glimpses into the fantastical possibilities of steam-powered inventions. In contemporary literature, authors like China Miéville and Philip Reeve have created intricate steampunk worlds in novels such as Perdido Street Station and the Mortal Engines series, respectively.

Historical Connections and Inspiration
The Steampunk genre draws heavily from the Victorian and industrial eras, which witnessed remarkable technological advancements and societal changes.

The Victorian era, spanning from the early to late 19th century, saw the rise of industrialization, scientific progress, and a sense of exploration. Steampunk assets like steamboats and steam tanks reflect the technological advancements of this period, showcasing the era’s fascination with steam power and mechanical innovation. Castles, railroad paths, and flying cities, reminiscent of the grand architecture and urban development of the time, further enhance the historical ambiance within fantasy maps.

Steampunk dungeons, while not directly tied to any specific historical period, draw inspiration from the gothic architecture and dark recesses of Victorian novels and folklore. These additions create opportunities for unique adventures and challenges within the map’s narrative, as explorers delve into mysterious underground realms.

Conclusion
Steampunk elements have become integral to the world of fantasy maps, allowing for the exploration of alternate realities that combine historical charm with imaginative technology.

By merging the characteristics of steampunk with various elements such as airships, cities, giant robots, train stations, factories, flying machines, hot air balloons, zeppelins, steamboats, castles, railroad paths, flying cities, towns, and dungeons, fantasy maps can transport viewers to rich and exciting steampunk worlds. These maps become gateways to adventures !

Feel free to take a look at my steampunk pack if you’re interested, which gathers many elements specific to the genre for easily creating your own steampunk fantasy maps!

What purpose do the decorative elements of fantasy maps and antique maps serve?

Byatypikk

Maps have always been essential tools for navigation, exploration, and storytelling. Over the centuries, they have evolved from simple navigational aids to works of art that captivate our imagination. In both fantasy and ancient maps, various decorative elements have played a significant role in conveying information and adding aesthetic appeal. In this article, we delve into the historical significance of ribbons, compass roses, heraldic shields, medieval and fantasy emblems, banners, royal seals, crown symbols, and unfurled parchment scrolls.

You can take a look at my decorative map elements bundle here (click on the image):

Ribbons

Ribbons have held significant historical and practical importance throughout the ages. In ancient cartography, they served as more than just ornamental features; they were vital symbols representing essential regions, illustrious kingdoms, or crucial trade routes. These ribbons, often intricately designed and varying in width, provided cartographers with a versatile tool to convey critical information while simultaneously captivating viewers with their aesthetic appeal.

Historically, ribbons were intricately woven into the fabric of maps to denote various geopolitical entities. For instance, in medieval European maps, ribbons were frequently used to delineate borders between kingdoms, principalities, or city-states. The width and design of these ribbons could signify the relative importance or power of a particular region, with wider ribbons often reserved for prominent territories or trade routes of great economic significance.

Moreover, ribbons were not solely confined to terrestrial maps; they also found their way onto nautical charts, where they served as navigational aids for sailors. On these maps, ribbons might represent maritime trade routes, coastal boundaries, or currents, offering seafarers crucial guidance in their voyages across the seas.

In the realm of fantasy maps, the significance of ribbons transcends their historical function. Here, they take on a mystical quality, becoming more than just decorative elements. In fantasy worlds, ribbons might serve as enchanted pathways, leading adventurers to hidden realms or sacred sites. Alternatively, they could denote boundaries between realms of power, such as the domains of rival wizards or the territories of ancient mythical creatures.

Overall, whether in ancient maps or fantasy realms, ribbons have played a multifaceted role, combining practical utility with aesthetic allure to enrich the cartographic experience.


Compass Roses

Compass roses have played a crucial role in navigation and cartography throughout history. Originating from simple directional indicators, they have evolved into intricate designs that not only provide orientation but also serve as decorative elements on maps.

Historically, compass roses trace back to ancient civilizations such as the Chinese, who were among the first to develop compasses for navigation around the 11th century. Initially, these compass roses were basic, typically featuring only the cardinal directions (north, south, east, west) and perhaps intermediary points like northeast and southwest.

As cartography advanced, particularly during the Age of Exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries, compass roses became more elaborate. European cartographers began incorporating decorative motifs and symbols into their maps, often using compass roses as focal points. These designs not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal of the maps but also provided additional navigational aids.

During the Renaissance, compass roses reached their pinnacle of complexity and artistry. Cartographers like Gerardus Mercator and Abraham Ortelius created beautifully embellished compass roses adorned with intricate patterns, mythical creatures, and ornate typography. These designs not only facilitated navigation but also reflected the cultural and artistic trends of the time.

In terms of usage, compass roses served both practical and symbolic functions. Practically, they provided a reliable reference point for sailors and explorers, helping them determine directions and plot courses accurately. Symbolically, compass roses represented the spirit of exploration and discovery, embodying the adventurous ethos of the Age of Exploration.

Even in modern cartography, compass roses remain prevalent, although their prominence has diminished with the advent of digital mapping technologies. Nevertheless, they continue to adorn maps as nostalgic reminders of centuries past, preserving a rich tradition of navigation and exploration.

Heraldic Shields

Heraldic shields have a long and storied history that spans centuries, originating in medieval Europe. Initially, heraldic shields served as a means of identification on the battlefield, allowing knights and warriors to distinguish friend from foe amidst the chaos of combat. These shields were adorned with unique designs, known as coats of arms, which typically incorporated symbols, animals, colors, and patterns that held significance to the individual or family they represented.

As feudal societies evolved, heraldic shields became not only symbols of martial identity but also markers of social status and lineage. Noble houses and ruling dynasties adopted distinctive coats of arms to assert their power and lineage, with each design carefully crafted to convey a family’s history, values, and achievements. These symbols were displayed prominently on banners, flags, seals, and of course, shields, serving as visual emblems of authority and prestige.

In the context of fantasy maps, heraldic shields play a similar role in conveying the rich tapestry of fictional worlds. They are often used to denote the territories of different kingdoms, noble houses, or factions within the setting. Just as in history, these shields are imbued with meaning and symbolism, reflecting the diverse cultures, histories, and allegiances of the fantasy realm.

In fantasy cartography, heraldic shields are meticulously depicted alongside geographical features to provide context and depth to the map. They serve as visual cues for readers, helping them navigate the intricate web of political alliances, rivalries, and power struggles that shape the fictional world. Whether depicting the proud lion of a noble house, the fearsome dragon of a legendary kingdom, or the mystical sigil of an enigmatic faction, heraldic shields add a layer of authenticity and immersion to fantasy maps, bringing to life the rich heritage and intricate politics of the imagined realm.

Medieval & Fantasy Emblems

Emblems hold immense significance in fantasy worlds, representing magical schools, guilds, mythical creatures, or mystical artifacts. In ancient maps, similar emblems were employed to depict important kingdoms, landmarks, historical events, or religious symbols.

Banners and Royal Seals

Banners and royal seals have been employed throughout history to signify authority, ownership, or allegiance. In fantasy maps, they serve a similar purpose, representing the dominion of kings, queens, or influential factions.


Crown Symbols

Crown symbols have long been associated with royalty, nobility, and rulership. In ancient maps, crowns were often used to designate the capital city or the seat of power. In fantasy realms, crown symbols are employed to mark the locations of important castles, strongholds, or realms ruled by powerful monarchs.


Unfurled Parchment Scrolls

Unfurled parchment scrolls add an authentic touch to maps, reminiscent of ancient cartographic techniques. These scrolls provide space for text, legends, or additional information about the depicted lands, enhancing the map’s educational and storytelling potential.


Evolution of Decorative Map Elements

Throughout history, the design and use of decorative elements in maps have evolved significantly. Ancient maps were often intricate and hand-drawn, with limited color palettes and simplistic embellishments. Ribbons, compass roses, and heraldic shields served practical purposes and were less ornate compared to their fantasy counterparts.

With the rise of fantasy literature and role-playing games, maps became not just navigational tools but gateways to immersive worlds. Decorative elements took on new dimensions, becoming intricate works of art. Medieval and fantasy emblems became more elaborate, incorporating magical symbols and fantastical creatures, reflecting the diverse realms and cultures within these fictional landscapes.


Conclusion

Decorative elements such as ribbons, compass roses, heraldic shields, medieval and fantasy emblems, banners, royal seals, crown symbols, and unfurled parchment scrolls have played crucial roles in both fantasy and ancient maps. They not only add visual appeal but also convey important information about territories, landmarks, and the cultural fabric of the depicted worlds.

Now that you know all this, by combining these decorative elements, you’ll be able to create sublime maps that are more lifelike than ever before!

Happy mapping!

Regional Maps vs World Maps

Byatypikk

What distinguishes regional maps from world maps is their acute attention to detail. While world maps try to fit everything onto a single piece of parchment, regional maps take their time to explore every grove, every trail, every shepherd’s hut. Villages, castles, forts, and roads are meticulously depicted, offering an immersive view into the daily life of ancient civilizations. Each regional map is like an open window to a specific piece of the world, capturing the unique features of each region with precision and meticulous attention.

You can take a look at the my regional map assets pack here (click on the image):

But what truly makes these maps special are the little touches of fantasy hidden within them. Ancient cartographers had boundless imagination and didn’t hesitate to add their own flair to the landscapes. Dragons lurk in the mountains, mermaids haunt the coasts, and who knows, perhaps even a troll or two wander through the woods. It’s as if each map were a medieval version of “Where’s Waldo?” where every corner holds a mystery to uncover.

Now, let’s turn to the comparison between regional maps and world maps. It’s a bit like comparing a detailed piece of artwork to a child’s drawing on the fridge. World maps give you an overview of the world, but regional maps take you into the most remote and secretive corners of the world. It’s as if ancient cartographers were explorers armed with quills and ink, determined to map every inch of their beloved land with unparalleled precision and passion.

And let’s not forget the influence of these maps on today’s fantasy worlds. Role-playing game designers and fantasy authors often draw inspiration from these ancient maps to create imaginary worlds as vast as the imagination itself. Houses, caves, campsites, bridges, and ports become essential pieces of the puzzle, adding a touch of realism to worlds where magic and adventure reign supreme. Furthermore, it’s noteworthy to mention in this article that for modern fantasy maps, creators unknowingly borrow heavily from elements of ancient regional maps to integrate into their world maps, such as the detailed representation of certain groups of buildings, caves, or desert dunes.

Happy mapping!