Map Legend Maker
Build a legend for any map — colours, area, point, pin and line symbols, labels, columns and a title — and download it as a PNG (transparent if you like) or SVG.
Entries
Preview
PNG keeps a transparent background if you ticked Transparent. SVG stays sharp at any size and can be edited in Inkscape or Illustrator. Made in your browser; nothing is uploaded.
How to make a map legend
- Write a title. Or leave it empty for no title.
- Add entries. Pick each colour, symbol (area, point, pin, line, dashed line) and label.
- Lay it out. Choose columns, text size, background and border.
- Download. PNG at three times screen size, or SVG to edit further.
Where a separate legend is useful
Adding a key to a screenshot
Place the legend over a map image in any editor.
Reports and slides
A crisp legend for a map in Word or PowerPoint.
Printed maps
SVG stays sharp at poster size.
Google My Maps exports
Add the key the export leaves out.
Student projects
A tidy key for a hand-coloured map.
Consistent styling
Reuse the same legend across several maps.
How the legend is made
The legend is drawn as SVG in your browser and rendered to PNG at three times its on-screen size for sharp printing. With 'Transparent' ticked, the PNG keeps a transparent background so it can sit on top of a map.
Nothing is uploaded. Colours, labels and symbols are entirely yours.
Frequently asked questions
Can I change the font?
The legend uses Arial/Helvetica so it looks the same everywhere. Open the SVG in an editor to change it.
How many entries can I add?
Up to 40.
Why is my PNG background white?
Untick Background and tick Transparent before downloading.
What is the difference between a legend and a key?
Nothing — they are two names for the same thing.
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