Began my first ever map using GIMP today. Going for a hand-drawn, old paper/parchment with ink look.

WIP1.png

The good:
-Using the Dodge/Burn tool on burn with some jitter and style set to 'sand dunes' breaks up the solid tan colors and adds a lot of depth.
-Mountains are pretty good (I think, anyway) for having used a mouse.
-Rivers are decent.

The bad:
-I decided I don't want the grey border, but I CANNOT GET IT TO GO AWAY. Aaaaaaagh.
-Downloaded 'Aniron' font. Can't figure out how to add it to GIMP for use.
-The coastline and rivers look pixelated. Maybe I needed a higher ppi? I think I used the default (whatever that is).

The to-do:
-Forests. I'll probably hand draw these. It'll take a long time using the mouse though.
-Icons. I'm planning to enlarge a brush and just click for nice diamond, circle, and square shapes.
-Labeling. If I can get 'Aniron' onto GIMP, this should be a cinch. Theoretically.
-Compass rose. I'll probably just use a big N and an arrow.
-Legend. Not going to think about this yet.
-Border. Not going to think about this yet.

Any tips, tricks, help, or suggestions are most welcome. Thanks!