Learn Ortelius
For details on Ortelius functions, see the User Guide. Have questions? Join the discussion in our User Forum.
Ortelius Introduction
Ortelius Overview (video 02:00)
Ortelius is vector-based map illustration software for Mac OS X. This video provides a 2-minute overview of the Ortelius software.
Getting Started with Ortelius
Using Map Templates (video 03:06)
Ortelius is loaded with a broad selection of royalty-free world, continent, and country map templates to customize and make your own.
Building a Hand Drawn Map (Written Tutorial)
Custom maps help to communicate the right message to your audience. Place an existing map in Ortelius and tracing over it using the Ortelius cartography tools.
Importing Shapefiles (Written Tutorial)
Professionals often use digital mapping software called “geographic information systems” (GIS) to manage and analyze mapped data. These data, in the form of Shapefiles*, can be imported from other sources into Ortelius’ drawing space (with limitations – georeferencing and re-projection are not supported).
Drawing Roads (video 03:25)
Learn how to draw roads with smooth junctions and labels using Ortelius’ unique cartography tools.
Calibrating Scale (video 01:22)
Create scaled drawings in Ortelius using the Drawing Setup menu. This video shows how to calibrate the scale directly from your source map.
Cartography Tutorials
- Oh, The Places You've Been! Working With Ortelius Map Templates Ortelius delivers with dozens of world, region, and country outline templates. Using styles, symbols, and labels, these maps are easily customized. We'll create a map from start-to-finish that shows the states we've visited. Find out how to modify any tem...
- Creating Expert Styles In this video, we create custom expert styles from scratch and from clones of existing styles. Find out how to use expert style components to create unique stacked styles. video (05:20) ...
- Managing Your Cartographic Styles and Symbols In this video tutorial, find out how to use the Ortelius Library Manager to manage all of your cartographic styles and symbols. ...
