Module 2: Base Map

Let’s make it professional

 Drawing Pens
Your local art supply store will likely have several brands of drawing pens. Drawing pens are
great because they come in a wide range of line weights, allowing you to draw anywhere from a
very fine line to a very heavy line.

I recommend buying a total of five drawing pens, plus a standard black Sharpie (or similar
brand) marker. These are the line weights that I use the most: 01, 03, 05, 08, and 1

If you want a smaller set, consider these pen weights: 01, 05, 08, and a black Sharpie.
 Drawing Pens

01 draws a pretty fine line. Anything finer than this doesn’t show up very
well on scanned or photocopied designs.

03 draws a line that is a bit thicker than 01. I often use the 03 pen to
draw my base map in ink. It’s also a great weight for small shrubs and
perennials (which we’ll get to in Module 7).

05 makes a nice solid line. I often use the 03 and 05 in similar ways.
The 05 is a good weight for base maps and bed lines (which we’ll get to
in Modules 4 and 5). This is also a good pen for medium sized shrubs.

08 draws a heavier line that is best for large shrubs and small trees.

1 is heavier than 08. Like the 08 pen, I use this sparingly for small trees,
focal plants, or to accent a Sharpie-weight line of a large shade tree.

Sharpie (or similar brand) is basically a standard size marker. This line
weight is perfect for drawing large shade trees. I also use it for the
border around my entire design.
 Property Lines and Fences
Now that you’ve received a crash corse in drawing pens, let’s put your pens to use
by transforming your pencil drawing into a professionally drawn base map! Use
your drawing pen labeled 03 (unless otherwise instructed) for the rest of Module 2.

Property Lines: Draw a long line and two dashes, then repeat

Project Boundaries and Sidewalks: Draw a solid line

Fences: Draw a solid line with an “X” marking each fence post location
 House Details

• House Outline: Draw the exterior and

interior walls of your house footprint,
making sure to skip all doorways

• Windows: Use your ruler to trace over

your window lines

• Walls: Fill in the walls with your 05 or 08

drawing pen, making sure to leave the
window spaces white

• Hinged Doors: Use your circle template to

draw your hinged doors. Choose the circle
size that will create a 1/4 circle when
placed on the door location. Make sure to
draw your doors opening the correct
direction (either inside or outside). Draw a
straight line from the hinge side to the 1/4
circle to represent the open door

• Sliding Doors: Use a ruler or straight

edge to draw sliding doors as pictured to
the right
 Hardscape Areas and Trees
Patios, decks, porches: Draw a solid line for these spaces

Paved areas: Driveways, sidewalks, and walkways can be drawn using a solid line

Out-buildings: Depending on the size and complexity of the building, draw it like a house or simply draw
lines for walls and add any doors

Trees: Mark your existing tree locations with an X

Utilities: Add air conditioners, gas meters, water meters, etc.

 Scan and Print
Now it’s time to make a copy of your base map before we start Module 3.

You’ll need three copies of your base map; one for a site assessment exercise,
one for permaculture zones, and one for creating your concept design. You may
also choose to purchase a digital copy of your design in PDF format (optional).

Search online for your nearest copy shop. Call and ask if they have a large format
scanner and printer. Head over there and ask for assistance to make three copies
of your design at 100% scale.

What to take with you:

• Your base map, rolled up (please don’t fold it!)

• Flash drive (optional)

• Money
 Congrats!
You are done with your
base map.

See you in Module 3!