FAQ
PRODUCT/MATERIALS
-How do I place an order?
To place an order you can contact us by e-mail at microcosmi@mail.com . You can request any city in the material and size you prefer and we will work together to finalise the design before making it.
-How long does it take to get my map?
The time it takes us to make your map may vary depending on the size and materials you choose.
Shipping time depends on the delivery address. It is normally around 4-5 business days for European countries and 2-3 weeks for extra-European shipping.
Don't hesitate to contact us via email at microcosmi@mail.com if you have any other questions on this matter.
-What process do you use to make the maps?
We prepare the vector drawings carefully, then we laser cut the layers -which represent the roads net, the landmass and the water mass- on three plywood panels 3 and 4 mm thick. The background layer is engraved with the city’s name, coordinates and progressive number.
All the leftovers of the laser cutting process are removed and each layer is carefully cleaned and manually sanded with fine grit sandpaper.
The layers and the frame are then assembled without using any glue and fastened with removable tabs. A protective layer of 2mm Plexiglas is placed on top of the laser-cut plywood.
-What type of timber do you use for the maps?
We use high-performance poplar marine plywood and high-performance RINA (Italian Marine Register) certified Okoume and Mahogany marine plywood
-Is the timber sustainable?
Yes. The FSC certification ensures that the timber comes from responsibly managed forests.
The marine plywood we use is assembled with “zero emission” glueing, offering visual and functional performance identical to traditional plywood.
Our panels comply with the limit values of the so-called “Class E0” or “Super E0", ensuring the same formaldehyde emissions as non-treated natural wood.
-How are the maps framed?
The maps are professionally framed with custom made Koto hardwood moulding and high quality Plexiglas.
-What kind of Plexiglas is used?
We use only high-quality special grade PLEXIGLAS® XT from Evonik. The material is absolutely colourless and clear and is guaranteed 30 years against yellowing.
-How do I clean the Plexiglas?
We recommend you to use an antistatic plastic cleaner, which should be sprayed on and distributed with a soft cloth without wiping the surface dry. The dust-repellent effect is then retained for a prolonged period of time.
-What if the Plexiglas gets scratched?
No worries, if it's just a small scratch you can just use a polishing liquid or paste and a microfiber cloth.
-Are there different woods/colours or frames available upon request?
You can choose between poplar, okoume or mahogany wood for the background. We just use poplar for the first two layers.
-Why do you use just poplar for the first two layers?
Because it works extremely well with laser cutting, the edges don't burn, it has a better finishing, it works well with small details and has better quality in general.
-How do you choose the area to represent in the maps?
The area and scale we choose varies from city to city, based on our evaluation of the final design of the map (what looks better and more balanced). If you would like to pick a different area for a city that is already in our catalogue don’t hesitate to contact us.
-How accurate are the maps?
As accurate as open street maps data. Every city contains all the paths from motorways to footpaths.
-I can’t find my city, can you make it?
Sure! Please contact us at microcosmi@mail.com and we will provide you with a quote and a rendering image for whatever city you are after.
-I can find my city but I would like a bigger/smaller area, can you make it?
Yes, you can contact us at microcosmi@mail.com and we will provide you with a quote and a rendering image for whatever area you are after.
-Can I order different sizes?
Yes. We have three sizes available for most of our maps: small 25x25 cm, medium 50x50 cm and large 70x70 cm. If you cannot find the size you are looking for, please contact us at microcosmi@mail.com and we will provide you with a quote for whatever size you are after.
-Can you make rectangular cities?
Yes, please contact us at microcosmi@mail.com and we will provide you with a quote for whatever size you are after.
-How do I hang the map on my wall?
Each map comes with its hanger on the back, so you just need to put a nail in the wall and hang it!
-Do you have a shop?
No, we just sell online for now.
-Do you have distributors?
You can find Microcosmi maps in selected design shops in Milan.