Creating a Custom Map Layout in QGIS

Step 1: Start a New Print Layout

Begin by opening QGIS and selecting your project. Navigate to the New Print Layout option. You will be prompted to name your layout; feel free to choose a name that resonates with your project, for instance, “My Map”. After naming, click OK.

Step 2: Set the Page Size and Orientation

Once the new print layout window appears, right-click in the blank area and select Page Properties. Here, you can choose from various page sizes. For this tutorial, select A4 size and set the orientation to Landscape.

Step 3: Add a Map Item

To add a map to your layout, go to Add Item and select Add Map. Click and drag from the top left corner to the bottom right corner of your layout to create a rectangle for your map. This will serve as the area where your map will be displayed.

Step 4: Adjust the Map Scale

Next, adjust the map scale. Select the map item, go to Item Properties, and input the desired scale in the scale field. A lower value will result in a larger scale. You can experiment with different values to find the perfect fit.

Step 5: Add a Grid to the Map

To add a grid, select the map item and scroll down to find the Grid option. Click on Add Grid and configure the interval values for both X and Y axes. Make sure these values are divisible by twenty of your scale value.

Step 6: Configure Coordinates

Change the orientation of the coordinate labels from horizontal to vertical. For both left and right coordinates, select Vertical Ascending in the properties.

Step 7: Add North Arrow

To add a north arrow, go to Add Item and click on North Arrow. Position it as per your preference by clicking and dragging it into place. Lock the item afterward to prevent accidental movements.

Step 8: Add Scale Bar and Text

Insert a scale bar by selecting Add Item and then Scale Bar. Adjust the properties to fit your needs. You can also add a label for the scale, such as “Scale 1:50,000”.

Step 9: Include a Regional Map

If you

want, you can add a regional map to show the context of your study area. Follow the same steps as before to add another map item and adjust its scale accordingly.

Step 10: Add a Legend

Insert a legend by selecting Add Item and then Add Legend. Remove any unnecessary items by unchecking the Auto Update option and using the red minus sign to delete unwanted entries.

Step 11: Finalize with Title and Additional Information

To complete your map, add a title by selecting Add Item and then Add Label. Customize the font and alignment to your liking. You can also add a label indicating who prepared the map.

Step 12: Export Your Map

Once you are satisfied with your map layout, export it as an image. Go to Layout and select Export as Image. Choose a name and a destination folder for your file.

FAQ

• Can I use different page sizes in QGIS? Yes, QGIS allows you to select various page sizes or even set a custom size in the page properties.
• How do I lock items in my layout? After positioning an item, you can lock it by selecting the lock option in the item properties to prevent it from moving accidentally.
• Can I change the font and color of my map labels? Absolutely! You can customize the font, size, and color of any text element in your map layout through the item properties.

By following these steps, you will be able to create a professional map layout tailored to your needs. Happy mapping!