Drawing and reproduction of national atlases

Summary

This paper discusses the development and application of drawing and reproduction techniques for national atlases. Unlike ordinary atlases, each map in a national atlas is thematically unique and must be treated as an individual product in design and execution. Using the Atlas of Sweden as an example, the article illustrates how, since World War II, and especially during the 1950s, new technologies such as plastic sheets, scribing, strip mask, and advanced copying methods have gradually replaced traditional pen-and-ink drawing and lithography, greatly improving efficiency and quality. It emphasizes that modern atlas production requires close teamwork among cartographers, editors, and technicians, and that the most suitable technical process should be chosen based on the specific characteristics of each map. Finally, the author advocates for international cooperation and the free exchange of experiences and methods to further advance cartographic technology.