Map Creation Question

[David_McMahon@adobeforums.com]

I am working on a map in Illustrator CS that I would like to print on both 8.5 x 11 and on a much larger poster. I am looking for some workflow recommendations. Should I create the map on the larger paper size first and then shrink it to 8.5 x 11 or the other way around? Also, what is the best way to shrink or enlarge the map for printing purposes? Should I group everything and then stretch to fit the larger paper or is there a better method?

Thanks.

[Jonathan_McClintic@adobeforums.com]

It doesn't matter. It is vector.

Jonathan

[Scott_Falkner@adobeforums.com]

Best to work at 8.5 x 11, because that's what you'll be printing as proofs. For the enlargement, I suggest saving as a new file, and setting the dcoument setup to the new size, scaling everything, then fine-tuning as needed (different aspect ratio, adjust point size of text, etc.). Do this only after you have approval for the smaller map.

[Harron_K._Appleman@adobeforums.com]

David,

I agree with Scott. Just be aware that if you scale everything up proportionally -- in particular, stroke and text weights -- things may not appear as balanced as they did at the smaller size. These things will most likely have to be adjusted by "eye" -- the "fine-tuning" Scott mentioned -- on the basis of actual size test prints.

=-= Harron =-=

[Alexander_Kogan.@adobeforums.com]

....one thing to have in mind is whether you're using bitmap effects (like Feather, Drop Shadow etc.). If you work on small scale with these effects and then upscale the whole design - not all of them can be upscaled correctly and some have limitations, so if you use bitmap effects - it may be a good idea to start at a big scale and print proofs using the brand new "Fit to page" function of AICS :)

[Harron_K._Appleman@adobeforums.com]

Good point, Alexander. I use raster effects so infrequently in Illustrator, I didn't even think of that.

=-= Harron =-=