FAQ's

Are your 3D Raised Relief Maps really 3D? 

Yes! We print the map on plastic and thermoform it to a precisely cut mold to create the raised print. We then cut the map and mount it onto foamboard to make a rigid map that you can display easily. 

Can I get the legend for the map?

Please email info@muir-way.com and let us know which map you purchased or are considering. We will send you an email with the full-size legend so you can zoom in and see everything.

What is a Relief Map?

Relief maps are artistically detailed maps that depict the variation in a given area's slope, aspect, and elevation, illustrating the landscape's underlying geography. 

We offer several types of relief maps: elevation, color-shaded, and 3D raised.

Elevation Maps - Our elevation maps are printed on premium paper and depict the terrain solely through shaded relief—without roads, labels, or boundaries. Each map reveals the land’s natural form through light and shadow, showcasing the landscape's beauty and structure in its purest form.

Shaded Relief Maps - Blending history and modern technique, our color shaded relief maps start with authentic vintage maps and apply detailed relief shading to evoke depth and dimension. Printed on premium paper, each piece preserves the character of the original artwork while bringing the landscape to life through light, shadow, and color.

3D Raised Relief Maps - Each 3D Raised Relief Map begins as a restored historical map, aligned with modern elevation data to form a precise three-dimensional mold. Printed on durable plastic and vacuum-formed over the terrain, every map is mounted to foamboard and hand-finished to create a striking tactile representation of the landscape—where history and topography meet in sculpted detail.

What is Bathymetry?

Bathymetry is the study and mapping of underwater terrain—essentially the “topography” of the ocean floor, lakes, and rivers. On our shaded relief maps, bathymetric detail reveals the contours and depth variations beneath the water’s surface, adding dimension and context to coastlines and aquatic landscapes.

What is the difference between the Paper Print and the Canvas Gallery Wrap?

Printed on our professional Canon printers with the Lucia 12 color inks.  The inks are archival and produce vibrant rich colors which will last a lifetime.

• Paper Print We use 100% cotton, acid-free heavyweight (310g) Archival art paper with a textured matte finish. We use the same quality of paper and inks as top photographers use for their prints in galleries.  They come rolled in a Kraft shipping tube and are meant to be framed.  Be careful not to touch the surface, the inks can be sensitive to the oils on your hands.  When you receive the print, it will be rolled in a shipping tube.  Unroll it, put the glassine paper it came with over the print and place some books over it for 24 hours, flip it and do the same thing in order to flatten the print out before you frame it.                       

• Thin Wood Frames They have 7/8 inch face for a clean and modern look. The frames are made from real American Walnut, with acrylite glazing to protect the print. They will come ready to hang with wire hangers installed and a paper dust cover on the back.

• Canvas Gallery Wraps Made locally, they are printed on a thick (400g) Archival canvas, varnished for protection, and stretched around a 1.5 inch thick wooden frame.  They have hanging hardware attached so they come ready for your wall.

Where are your prints made?

USA orders are printed in California.  The paper, canvas, and frames we use are made in the USA. 

What is your return policy?

We stand by everything we print and will accept returns within 30 days of your purchase of a Fine Art Paper print. There are NO restocking fees but return shipping costs are at the customer's expense. Returned prints must be in new condition and packaged as they were shipped. Please email us at info@muir-way.com with the order # to receive detailed instructions. Unauthorized returns may not be accepted and do not guarantee a refund.

*Framed Prints and Canvas Gallery Wraps – We do not accept returns or exchanges on framed prints and canvas gallery wraps because they are custom made to order.  If your order arrives damaged or wrong, please email us at info@muir-way.com so we can correct it for you.

Email info@muir-way.com for more information.

What happens if my order comes damaged?

We print each map to order and package them very carefully. They leave our shop in perfect condition but sometimes may arrive damaged.  If that occurs, don't worry, we will replace your print. Just email us pictures of the damaged print, shipping tube, and shipping label (with tracking number visible).  We will quickly reprint your order and ship you a new one.

Can you design a map not already on the site?

Yes, we've done designs for many of the most popular outdoor areas in America but obviously not all of them.  We will be adding more as time goes on and would love to hear what you are looking for.  If we get enough requests for a map we will bump it up the list.  Please be patient though, they take time to design.  Please email us your requests at info@muir-way.com. 

We do not make custom maps at this time. Due to the overwhelming amount of requests and the time each one takes to design, we are unable to take custom orders. Thank you for your understanding.

Can you do custom maps and sizes?

We offer custom wood-carved maps of your chosen area. Apart from any natural variation in the wood, they do not have color or place names; the terrain is the focus. 

We do not make custom maps of our color-raised relief maps or shaded relief maps due to the time and cost required to create them.

For custom sizes, we can print paper versions up to 40x60 inches. We do not make custom-sized maps for 3D raised relief maps.

Can I see this in person before buying?

We don't have a storefront, but some of our maps are displayed hanging in REI and other shops. If you're in San Diego, we might be able to arrange a viewing at our workshop where they're made. Please email us at info@muir-way.com to set up an appointment.

Do you wholesale?

Yes, please contact us at info@muir-way.com for wholesale opportunities.

Will you share my information?

We use your information to complete your order and that's it, unless you opt for email updates (very sporadic and only worthwhile stuff).  We don't share it with any marketers.  Our site is secured with a SSL certificate.  Credit cards are processed through PayPal and we do not keep them on file.  For a more complete explanation go to our Privacy Policy page.