Tools of the Trade (CSC)

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As described previously, it is indeed possible to make maps with nothing more than a pencil and a piece of paper. However, the DM's task is made easier if he invests in (or borrows) a few supplies and tools. A basic shopping list for the adventure game cartographer follows:
* A pad of graph paper (4, 6, 8, or 10 squares to the inch).
* A pad of tracing paper Hex grids (paper divided into six-sided hexagons-a variety of sizes exist)
* Several sharp pencils
* A small set of colored pencils or watercolor markers
* A felt tip or razor point drawing pen
* A straight edge or ruler Drafting templates (for circles, ellipses and other geometric shapes)
* A compass (for making large circles)
* A protractor (for measuring angles)
* A drafting triangle
* A T-square
* Access to a good photocopier—most libraries and quick printing shops have suitable machines available
Of course, many of these items are optional. Many DMs (myself included) have gotten along perfectly well without a compass or templates. As you might expect, however, many of my maps did not have large circular chambers on them (unless they were the same size as the nearest coffee cup of plate).