The problem
→ You don't know where to start – there's no clear process to follow
→ The result looks cluttered or "off" and you're not sure why
→ You don't know what separates a professional map from an amateur one
→ You wouldn't feel confident charging for one
You won't just draw a map. You'll learn how to structure it, simplify it, make it readable, and understand how map illustration is actually priced – so the next time someone asks, you have an answer.
What you'll be able to do
Draw a stylized map from scratch using a real commercial process
Build compositions that look professional and read clearly
Use brushes and textures to work faster without losing quality
Know what formats to deliver and how to present them
Leave with a portfolio-ready piece
Have a repeatable workflow for future paid work
Festivals · Wedding maps · Restaurant & café · Hotel & venue · Stationery · Travel & tourism · Museum & gallery · Event venues · Real estate · Campus maps · City gifts / retail · and more!
What's included
✦ ~2–3 hours of structured video lessons split into short modules
✦ A complete stylized map project to add to your portfolio
✦ My full commercial workflow: structure, decisions, and presentation
✦ Export and delivery templates – what to send and how
✦ Self-paced – watch anytime, work at your own pace
✦ Access to the Discord community – share your work, ask questions, and learn alongside other students
✦ 1 year of access to all course materials — revisit lessons anytime
✳︎ Procreate brush set for stylized maps
✳︎ Texture pack to apply to your map
✳︎ 3 color palettes ready to use
✳︎ Checklist: From brief to final
✳︎ Mini-guide: How much to charge for maps
✳︎ Layered Procreate file – finished map example
About me
I’m an illustrator and designer focused on commercial illustration – and I’ve built stylized maps for real-world projects.
Maps are some of my favourite projects I've ever worked on. Turning a real place into a stylized visual – I never get tired of it.
I built a course that answers not just the technical side of map creation – but the thinking behind it. How to take a place and turn it into something clear, stylized, and sellable. How to make a map that actually fits a brief, works for a brand, and doesn't need ten rounds of revisions to get there.
That's the process I use in my own commercial work. And now it's the course.
6+ years in commercial illustration and design
Clients include Adobe, Google, Shake Shack, Webflow, Dell, and more
16+ awards and features
Founder of Deeply Design Studio
Coach for creative freelancers
Write a blog and newsletter for illustrators and designers building independent practices
What people say
★★★★★
"I want to thank you for being so generous with your advice and for all practical tips and resources you have shared with me. It's nice to just have someone to speak to who went through the experience as it can be confusing and isolating when starting out. I will definitely put the advice you have given me to use! Speaking to you has been very helpful and motivates me to keep going and to try new methods."
Illustrator & Motion Designer
★★★★★
"I knew that Irene was the right person to review my portfolio as she has a both perspectives, the artistic as a fellow illustrator, and the business experience as an art director. Now I feel more confident to approach clients after her tips on presenting my work, best practices on professional etiquette and self promotion. If you want to be an established and business savvy illustrator, ask Irene."
Motion Graphics Designer
★★★★★
"Irene is the exact kind of person I was looking for with illustration help. She gave me very clear directions on what I need to do in order to build a stronger portfolio. Also, knowing that what I have currently can be reworked into more commercial looking pieces gives me so much confidence in what to do next. Irene taught me so much, and I couldn't be more thankful!"
Illustrator & Animator
FAQ
No. Basic Procreate use is enough – if you can work with layers and brushes, you can follow along.
Yes – Procreate on iPad and a stylus. Apple Pencil works best, but a compatible alternative is fine.
Around 2–3 hours total, split into short lessons. Most people finish it over a weekend.
Self-paced. Watch on your own schedule – access is available as soon as the course opens.
You'll have a process built for commercial work and a sellable skill. Whether that turns into paid projects depends on your portfolio and outreach – but you'll have a strong piece and the workflow to create more.
You'll follow along with a map Irene builds from start to finish – and you're welcome to do yours for any location you want. The process is the same either way.
Style isn't a requirement. The course gives you structure and a decision-making process – your style develops from there.
Soon! Joining the waitlist means you'll be the first to know – and you'll get early access with the launch price.