Ortelius Macintosh Map Making Software by Mapdiva, LLC

When a map symbol is originally created, it is assigned as a “master” symbol which can be placed unlimited times on your map. The first step to editing an existing symbol is to place the symbol on your drawing canvas using the Symbol Stamp tool then detach it from its symbol master. Detaching it from its master is an essential step.

Symbols are created from graphic objects, groups of objects, text, and images. When a map symbol is originally created it is assigned the status of “master” and stored in a Symbol Library. Each time you place a symbol on your map with the Symbol Stamp tool, an “instance” of its master is placed. The master supplies all the common properties, such as what it looks like, to all the instances of the symbol. If a master is changed, all the instances of that master (across all documents) will change as well.

After placing a symbol, right-click and choose “Detach From Master” from the context menu. Alternatively, choose Edit > Symbols > Detach From Master from the main menu. This reverts the symbol to a standard graphical object that can be edited and turned into a new symbol.

Many symbols are comprised of groups of objects. As necessary, right-click and choose “Ungroup” from the context menu to edit the graphic elements. Alternatively, choose Graphic > Ungroup from the main menu. Some complex graphics can be further “broken apart” into their graphical elements. Choose Graphic > Combine > Break Apart from the main menu. In this example the restroom graphic is a complex object, the middle graphic is detached and ungrouped, then re-colored. In the bottom graphic, the complex object of the restroom graphic is broken apart and each graphical element is individually re-colored.

Graphic objects from the original symbol are ready to be edited. Select and change styles or drag-and-drop a color directly from the Colors palette. In this example, we’ve detached the bottom symbol from its master, ungrouped, then dragged a 50% transparent magenta color to the graphic. Graphics can also be combined as desired to make cut-outs and interesting shapes.

When you are satisfied with the graphics for your new symbol, group the graphics as necessary and choose Edit > Create Symbol from the main menu to create it as a symbol. Name it and include a description as desired. Keep your new symbols organized into collections and categories in your Library as appropriate.

As previously discussed, when symbols are created, they are assigned as “master symbols” which are stored in a Symbol Library and later placed on your map using the Symbol Stamp tool. Ortelius provides the flexibility to create symbol-like objects accessible from the Symbols palette that are automatically detached from their symbol master when placed on your map. The advantage this enables is to place graphics for immediate editing after placement, such as map legends and sign elements.

Many symbols are comprised of parts, such as a shield combined with text. For the convenience of creating new symbols, many sign elements are included in Ortelius’ Default Library. When placed, sign elements are automatically detached from their master and ready for editing. Restyle these elements to form the basis for new custom symbols.

When your symbol’s design is complete, group the objects before creating your new symbol.