Begin by setting up your workspace in Google My Maps and defining the overall congregation boundary.
- Download your congregation's original boundary KMZ file to your computer.
- Go to Google My Maps log in and click Create a New Map.
- In the box labeled Untitled layer, click Import.
- Select your congregation boundary KMZ file.
Tip: This imported layer is your guide. You will draw your new territories on top of this, then delete this layer at the end.
Precision is key for accurate maps.
- Click Add layer in the left menu. Name it "Territories".
- Select the Draw a line tool and choose Add line or shape.
- Trace the specific territory boundary carefully.
- Double-click on your starting point to close the shape.
Critical: Ensure shapes meet exactly at corners. Use the "Show Problems" tool later to find any hidden overlaps.
Correct naming triggers the automatic features of the printer.
- Enter the name in format: Number Name (e.g., 10 Riverside).
- Automatic Kingdom Hall: If you name a shape Kingdom Hall or Jumba la Ufalme, a blue sticker will be placed automatically at its center.
Naming Rules:- Do not use dashes, dots, or symbols (e.g., avoid "12 - Riverside").
- Use neutral geographic names only.
⚠️ DANGER: The "Accidental Slide"
Clicking and dragging inside a selected shape will move the entire polygon.
- Undo: Immediately press Ctrl + Z (Windows) or Cmd + Z (Mac).
- Edit Nodes: Click the territory border once to drag the white dots and adjust corners.
- Delete the original "Boundary" guide layer so only your territories remain.
- Click the three vertical dots next to the Map Title.
- Select Export to KML/KMZ.
- Select Entire map and ensure format is KMZ.
- Click Download.
Before checking your lines, choose the map style that best fits your needs:
- Bright / Outdoors: Best for standard color maps.
- Ink Saver / Greyscale: Best for printing on black & white office printers.
- Contrast: High-visibility black map (looks great with Neon lines).
Switch styles using the dropdown menu in the top control bar.
You have total control over the blue map stickers:
- Automatic: A KH sticker will be placed in the centre of any territory named Kingdom Hall or Jumba la Ufalme.
- Important: the icon will be placed in the center of of the territory. Zoom in, then move it to the correct place.
- Manual Placement: You can place multiple stickers. Click the 🏛️ Place KH button, then click anywhere on the map to drop a new sticker.
- Custom Names: Double-click any blue sticker to rename it (e.g., "Kingom Hall", "Assembly Hall", or Jumba la Ufalme).
- Precision: Click and drag stickers to adjust their position.
Ensure your territory lines pop against the background you chose.
- Locate the Map Key (Legend) in the bottom right corner.
- Click the name of a KMZ file in the list.
- Select from the 30-color palette. Choose Neons for dark maps or Bold colors for light maps.
- Lines and number labels will update instantly on the map.
- Click 📷 Download to generate a 4000px high-resolution PNG.
- The system will automatically snapshot your custom colors, labels, and sticker positions.
- The map includes a dimming mask, making areas outside the territory darker to help the map stand out.
- To start a completely new project, use the 🗑️ Clear Map button.
Print Tip: High-res maps are perfect for A0 wall prints or large digital displays.