The commission

You know the place.
We find its shape.

A map can leave out a hundred ordinary details and still keep the one that makes you smile.

From a place to a picture

  1. Choose what belongs

    Tell us whether it is a street, campus, farm or wedding venue. List the landmarks and names you want included. We agree on the size, price and personal-use format before starting.

  2. Look over the pencil layout

    We arrange the paths, buildings and labels into a clear drawing. You check the names, what is missing and what should be more prominent. Two rounds of changes are included.

  3. Make the final drawing

    After you approve the layout, we add color and lettering. You receive the file, or collect the print or framed piece at an agreed time.

A portrait of a place

Carthetra draws for recognition and affection. A barn may grow a little larger; a winding road may get a gentler curve. These are illustrations, not surveys or boundary records.

Help us see what you see

A rough sketch, a list of landmarks and photos you have permission to share are enough to begin. A wedding map might include the ceremony lawn and reception barn; a campus map might keep the library and the bench outside it.

Studio replies are Monday–Thursday, 9am–4pm. A commission usually takes three to four weeks after the details are agreed. December gifts follow the dates on the sizes and prices page.

Put your place on paper.

A few landmarks and a little story are a good beginning.

Request a commission