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How to 3d print a topographic map
How to Make 3D Printed Topographic Maps and Terrains – Equator
Skip to content How to Make 3D Printed Topographic Maps and TerrainsMAKE ANYTHING
Making your own 3D printed topographic maps is easy with Equator!
Want to learn how to make your own 3D printed Christmas gifts? Follow this tutorial to learn how!
Image of the Equator online platform
Equator is mapping and design software with thousands of built-in data (like high-resolution elevation data). Equator is used by civil engineers, architects, and designers around the world to find, build, and share topographic maps and designs instantly.
Image of the “Search” menu and Little River, New Zealand
For this tutorial, we picked Little River New Zealand because the topography looks amazing and there is high-resolution elevation data in that area. We were excited to create physical terrain maps for this area.
Image of a dark grey polygon covering Little River New Zealand, indicating high-resolution topographic maps in this area.
Equator includes high-resolution elevation data from LiDAR (accurate to a few centimeters) in parts of Canada, the US, and New Zealand. If you are working in other areas, you can still generate 3D print-ready terrain, but it is created from low-resolution elevation data (accurate to roughly 30 m).
Image showing the site selection window in Equator
When you generate 3D printable files using Equator, we convert data from a LiDAR point cloud into a 3D mesh that can be modified for printing. When you select your site, it lets Equator know what boundaries it should crop your file to.
Image of the “View Now” button in Equator that previews the entire point cloud data
When you click “View Now,” the source LiDAR data points are turned on. This is the detailed lidar scan that we build our topographic maps from!
Image of the topographic Data menu
Image of the printable mesh generation menu
In this step, our goal is to only ensure that that the base of the model is the right thickness.
In step 9, we discuss exaggerating the vertical scale of the terrain.
Image of Chitubox software
Image of Chitubox software, changing the Z scale
When creating raised relief maps, it is common practice to modify the vertical (z) scale to customize the look of the map. In areas where the terrain is fairly flat, it is common to exaggerate the vertical scale to better illustrate what the ground looks like. Inversely, when creating beautiful maps of 3D mountains, you may want to reduce the vertical scale.
Image of the “slice” button in Chitubox software
Image of the save button in Chitubox software
Image of the printer menu
Image of the 3D topographic map during the printing process
What will you make with Equator?
Click on your use case below to start building a custom deliverable right now.
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Contours for CAD
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LiDAR Map
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Concept Plan
Patrick Sapinski2022-08-02T16:12:35-04:00Director at Equator Studios
Page load linkGuides Easy ways to 3D print Topographic maps and Landscape models
- What is a topographic map?
- Get a topographic map without a 3D Printer
- What 3D printing technology works best for a 3D Terrain?
- Apps and Sites for Terrain models
- Tips for making your Relief Printable
- How else landscape models can be made
Topographic maps are the maps that represent a relief of the Earth or another cosmic body. In 2D versions, equally elevated areas on topographic maps are connected with a contour. 3D versions of the maps, also called terrain models, allow to recreate the physical relief on a smaller scale. Starting as a tool for military planning, topographic maps are now mostly used for science and architecture.
Another way of capturing the environment is landscape models, which focus on showcasing the scenery of areas. Used in architecture, landscape models include reliefs, vegetation, buildings and even animals based on the desired application. They walk hand in hand with topo maps but commonly add more to them, making a relief filled with life.
Topo maps and landscape models are also used outside of their fields. The three-dimensional versions are fancied as décor and art pieces as they allow to capture the beauty of natural curves.
If you don’t have a 3D printer at home, order a terrain piece from our services. Simply drop your STL into the widget to get instant pricing and delivery estimates.
Relief models are seemingly simple-looking. However, in order to preserve the grace of terrain, it is critical to get the smooth transitions of curves. For this application, our Top-3 printing technologies would be:
FDM
FDM uses plastic filaments to form objects with a wide range of geometries possible.
Desktop plastic modeling may easily deliver poor results on topo maps with too many intricate details. However, if a 3D terrain is properly scaled and optimized with a decent flat base and enough layer thickness, results stand pretty strong. PLA would be the best choice for the material as it provides less trouble when printing and transferring details well.
- - Layer lines on the surface would be inevitable.
- - Details thinner than 0.5 -1 mm would not come out.
- - Monochrome.
- + The most affordable technology for smaller projects.
- + Relatively quick.
SLS
SLS is a technology that creates parts from powder grains, mostly polyamides. This method suits terrain and landscape models really well, especially bigger ones, which can be printed as single pieces. Fused grains also deliver really beautiful and smooth surfaces with great precision. Going with general-purpose powders like PA12 will be ideal.
- - Hollow models will need to have escape holes.
- - Non-coated SLS objects are yellow over time and absorb moisture.
- - Higher 3D Printing costs.
- + Great accuracy and surface quality.
- + Bigger terrain models are possible to get in one run.
Image credits: ghopper
CJP
While CJP also runs on powder, it uses a binding agent to fuse the grains like sandstone. The resulting models are more fragile but on a good note - colorful. With the CMYK palette possible, CJP can create fully colored landscape models and topo maps. The smallest of the color details may be a bit blurred, so we won’t recommend having tiny text on the terrain. But larger colored areas will turn out nicely.
- - Models are fragile and require a coating to preserve details and colors.
- + Accurate maps in full color are possible.
To get a topo model printed, you will need an STL model, OBJ or another 3D file format. It can be designed manually in suitable software like Blender, Rhino and Solidscape or generated with specially developed apps and sources.
Some of the popular and user-friendly are:
Terrain2STL – is a free and open-to-use service for getting models for terrains. Based on Google maps, it can generate a finished file of any surface available through Google’s database.
TouchTerrain is a similar tool, developed by combined forces of Iowa and Kansas Universities It includes more complicated settings, including sun angles.
ReliefMode – generates bas reliefs and lithophanes from 2D images. It allows getting relief of any surface you have a picture of, not limiting you to Earth’s current geology. Though, it will be less accurate due to working from a picture.
Moon2STL – a relative of Terrain2STL, this is the same service but for Moon, which is rich with fascinating craters and hills.
Libraries with ready-to-print models are another, hassle-free way to go. Many designs are available in general-type libraries like Thingiverse, Cults3D, Sketchfab and others.
If you aren’t afraid to take a bit more challenging route, you can explore field-specific databases, which contain Digital Elevation Models.
Some of these include OpenTopography and OpenStreetMap. DEMs are a digital representation of terrain received from satellites, lidar data, photos or other equipment. In order to get from DEM to STL, you can use GIS software for converting.
One final option we have for you is the Equator. This online tool allows you to create a markup at any place on the Earth and then export it as a .dwg file. Then, you can convert it to STL in AutoCAD or using an online converter.
The quality of a 3D printed landscape starts from a properly optimized and printable model. So, if possible, after generating your relief, try to make it suitable for your printing method.
For FDM
- Aim to reduce the number of overhangs and angles less than 45 degrees to the base;
- Keep the details over 1.15 mm or at least 0.5 mm;
- Ensure a model's wall thickness of 1.2 mm at least;
- For text, prefer thicker fonts and opt for 1 mm depth/height for it.
For SLS and CJP
- Hollow enclosed parts are not possible, thus, include holes or model parts solid;
- Recommended detail size is bigger than 0.8 mm;
- Suggested wall thickness is around 0.7 mm - 2.0 mm;
- For text details, ensure depth/height about 2 mm.
When plastic doesn’t feel right for you, it is worth exploring other ways to manufacture a terrain model. At Treatstock, we can offer you:
Laser Cutting – a great way to get a flat map or relief contours from woods and acrylics;
CNC milling – for three-dimensional terrains and landscapes from woods, foams and metals.
Three-dimensional maps of Russia and other countries of the world. 3D Mapper
FAQ. Frequently Asked Questions
Relief cards... What is it?
Relief maps - a relatively new type of representation of the earth's surface, combining the information content of traditional maps and the visibility of layouts. The relief map is based on a digital elevation model obtained by processing satellite imagery and cartographic data.
To improve visual perception, the vertical scale on relief maps is increased several times depending on the scale of the map and the terrain.
How are cards made? What technology is better to choose?
A necessary step in making a map is the formation of a computer relief model. Further, depending on the purpose of the card, its size and the planned circulation, the manufacturing technology is selected. The three main technologies are shown in the table below.
| Technology | Process description | Typical application | Price formation | Duplication |
| 3D printing | A 3D printing job is generated from the terrain model and texture. Printing is done in color with gypsum-like plastic. The advantage of the technology is that the output of the computer model is carried out immediately for printing, which ensures the efficiency and exact correspondence of the model. | 3D printer has limitations on the size of the print chamber (as a rule, horizontally - no more than 50x50 cm). Such cards are used as table souvenirs. | The cost of the product is determined by the cost of developing a computer model and the cost of printing the product. Optimal in the manufacture of single copies of small-sized cards (30x30 cm) with the application of customer's objects | Each subsequent copy is created at the cost of 3D printing. |
| Milling | A computer model is used to form a landscape with a 3D router made of MDF or other dense material. The resulting relief is used as a basis for layouts, pasted over with texture films, flock materials, etc. It is easy to attach additional elements to the product - models of buildings, infrastructure, etc. | The product turns out to be quite heavy, the layout is not applicable for applying photorealistic textures. This option is used as the basis for creating desktop and floor layouts.  | The cost of the product consists of the cost of developing a computer model, the cost of milling and the cost of finalizing the product (applying textures and elements). Suitable mainly for desktop layouts (1x1 m and more) | Each subsequent copy costs the cost of milling and the cost of finalizing the product |
| Vacuum formed | A computer model is used to form a landscape with a 3D router made of MDF or other dense material. The resulting relief is used as a matrix for forming a sheet material with a printed map texture. | The product is lightweight, suitable for wall mounting, any texture can be applied (photographs, topographic maps, physical and political maps) | The cost of the product consists of the cost of developing a computer model, the cost of milling, the cost of printing the texture and molding the product. The main labor costs are associated with the combination of relief and texture. Suitable for making wall cards of any size. | Replication costs the price of molding and texture application, which is no more than 15% of the cost of the first copy of the product. One form allows you to make several hundred copies. |
Which technology is cheaper?
It all depends on your needs. For example, a 50x50 cm card in a single copy is more profitable to print on a 3D printer, and if you need a print run or card sizes larger than 1 m 2 , then molding is definitely more profitable - you can save an order of magnitude in price.
In the calculator on the main page, you can calculate the estimated cost of making cards by molding, as well as estimate the cost of preparing a computer model (if you uncheck "Make" - only the cost of preparing the model is calculated). You can also evaluate the impact of circulation on the unit cost of the product.
Can I order a map with my own designations - roads, objects, inscriptions, etc.?
Needed! The main advantage of custom-made products is that you will receive a unique product that fully meets your needs.
What appearance options are available?
Almost any. We offer in the calculator for example the most popular options - a satellite image and a topographic map. The texture can be anything - a physical or political map, a height map, etc.
For maps of large areas (countries and continents as a whole, a federal district, a large region, etc.), the projection significantly affects the appearance. The most popular in our country are the Mercator projection (as on Google maps) and conical projection (as on mass maps of the USSR and Russia)
What are projections? What is the difference?
Our planet is not flat. In order to represent its surface on a plane, various methods of scanning - projections are used. Each projection introduces size distortions relative to the real ones. Which one accurately conveys dimensions? Each in its own range of latitudes. For example, the mercator accurately conveys distances at the equator, but as you move towards the poles, the accuracy decreases.
For conical - vice versa.
Do you need to worry about this? No. We will select and agree with you the optimal projection for the map.
© 2014-2022 3D Mapper, 3D relief maps of Russia and other countries of the world
+7 499 346-66-53, +7 499 380-71-90, [email protected] Topographic Maps
Download Topographic Maps 3D Models
Discover our selection of beautiful 3D topographic maps that print beautifully in 3D. Whatever your favorite destination, you'll find what you're looking for here. It has everything you need to travel and discover new landscapes, new geographical areas or new countries thanks to 3D printing!
New York, Lower Manhattan
Free
Topographic map of Mont Blanc
Free
Lower Manhattan Cityscape
Free
London, the City
Free
Spherical Lithophane - World Map 12cm remix
Free
Paris, place de l'Etoile with Arc de Triomphe
Free
Dubai, Burj Khalifa
Free
Chicago city
Free
Lamp -_World_Map
Free
Elevation World Map (no multi color printer needed)
Free
Esplanade de la Defense
Free
3D Map - Everest, Himalayas
Free
Mt Shasta Maps
Free
Topographic map of Grand Teton, Wyoming
Free
3D MAP - RIO DE JANEIRO - BRAZIL
Free
South America map puzzle
Free
Gale Crater, Mars
Free
Map of France
Free
Europe map puzzle
Free
Mount Hood
Free
Ultra Sierra Nevada Running mountain
Free
Our Dream House in Hong Kong.
. a place that every hongkonger spend a lifetime to reach Free
Sequoia and King's Canyon Park Maps
Free
Modeling Topography and Erosion with 3D Printing
Free
The Moon Puzzle - v2
12.84 €
Trinity Alps Maps
Free
Mount Rainier
Free
Isle of Man - Tourist Trophy Island in relief
Free
Cascade Peaks
Free
Vancouver - British Columbia - 3D Map - Topographic
Free
Textured Earth (easier to feel)
Free
Textured Earth with Braille
Free
USA Terrain
Free
Organ Mountains 3D Model
Free
Desolation Wilderness Maps
Free
Lake and Mountain Topography
Free
Angel Island
Free
Iberian mountain range, mountain chain spain
Free
India Map Shaped Cookie Cutter
Free
Corsican map IGN
2.
48 €
Mount Rainier
Free
Central America map puzzle (with tutorial)
Free
Antarctica, continent and relief model
Free
Lassen Volcanic National Park Maps
Free
Formosa (Taiwan) topography models
Free
US map keychain (separate states)
Free
Mt. Fuji
Free
The Earth Puzzle
12.84 €
The Earth Puzzle
Our Dream House in Hong Kong.. a place that every hongkonger spend a lifetime to reach
Dubai, Burj Khalifa
The Moon Puzzle - v2
Here is our selection of topographic map 3D printer files , all these creations are taken from Cults STL file repository and prints beautifully in 3D .
