Creating 3D Maps Using Isometric Projection in Illustrator
In this series of lessons, we will focus on creating 3D maps using isometric projection. We'll begin by learning what isometric projection is and how it differs from traditional linear perspective. Software required: Illustrator CS5.
What you'll learn
In this series of lessons, we will focus on creating 3D maps using isometric projection. We'll begin by learning what isometric projection is and how it differs from traditional linear perspective. From there, we'll learn two different methods for creating isometric objects, one using a grid, and a second using the scale, shear, and rotate tools in Illustrator. Along the way, we'll learn how to save time by incorporating actions into our workflow. Next, we'll jump in and begin designing a top down, two dimensional view of our map. From there, we'll learn what an orthographic drawing is and how it can help us to construct buildings on our map. We'll wrap things up by adding some final details to our map to really make it shine. Software required: Illustrator CS5.
Table of contents
- Comparing Linear Perspective and Isometric Projection 5m
- Using an Isometric Grid to Draw Objects 10m
- Creating Isometric Objects Using the Scale, Shear and Rotate Tools 14m
- Creating Roads for Our Map 11m
- Creating Buildings for Our Map 10m
- Adding Street Names to Our Map 10m
- Beginning to Build the Terrain for Our Map 10m
- Continuing to Build the Terrain for Our Map 13m
- Beginning to Create Buildings Using Orthographic Drawings 13m
- Continuing to Create Buildings from Orthographic Drawings 12m
- Creating Subterranean Details for Our Map 12m
- Additional Finishing Touches 12m
About the author
Eddie began teaching creative professionals over ten years ago for Digital Tutors. In 2014 Digital Tutors was acquired by Pluralsight and he continued his focus on creating high quality training for artists in both the film and games industries. With a background in graphic design and illustration Eddie has always been focused on visual appeal. This can be seen through his courses in which he shares secrets for achieving production level quality for concept art, illustrations, textures, mater... more