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Best Drawing Tools

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Top 5 Drawing Tools for Artists and Architects

Whether you’re an architect, surveyor, or simply an artist who’s concerned with precision, you need to have the best drawing tools at your disposal. Professional drawing equipment will give you the edge you need to create highly articulate drawings that can be used for blueprints, maps, and other technical documents. If you’re new to the field, though, you might be wondering exactly what kind of drafting and architecture drawing tools you need. The following five selections are the most essential tools for artists and architects alike.

1. Drafting Triangles

best-drawing-tools- 5273-1 Architectural drawings rely on exact representations of specific measurements, so of course you’ll need drawing equipment to make these measurements. You’ll also need a tool that will help you draw perfectly precise angles. A drafting triangle accomplishes both of these tasks. Invest in an adjustable model so that you can craft the exact angle you need, every time.

2. Drawing Tubes

best-drawing-tools-BTR4 Once you’ve poured your time and energy into a drawing, you’ll obviously want to protect it from damage. Drawing tubes are the easiest way to do so and easily tote your work from point A to point B. This is ideal if you’re commuting from the office to a job site and looking for a convenient carrier. Most models are designed to easily fit in your car or another small space.

3. Protractors

best-drawing-tools-RAS-1B Protractors — also sometimes called angle finders — are a staple in grade school classrooms, but they’re essential drawing tools for professionals, too. In addition to their ability to draw angles, they can measure existing angles, making them useful for both drafting and reading technical drawings. Opt for a model that’s transparent so it can easily be read over a drawing.

4. Drafting Lamps

best-drawing-tools-12022 Nothing is worse than feeling the tiredness of eye strain set in after hours spent at your drawing desk. You can massively reduce eye strain and exhaustion, though, by investing in a drafting lamp to illuminate your work. These lamps are specially designed to light your entire desk and your drawing equipment so that you can see clearly.

5. Compass Sets and Dividers

best-drawing-tools-3699-1 Drafting compasses are one of the most important architecture drawing tools to have in your tool box. Because this tool is sharp, though, it’s important to be careful while using it. You should hold it firmly from the safety point at the top and position the sharp end on your paper. Rotate it slowly to sketch a circle.



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Drawing Tools - Frequently Asked Questions

What basic drawing tools does every artist need?

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In addition to obvious tools such as pencils and paper, you should ensure that you have a drafting triangle, protractor, compass set, and divider. You will also benefit from a drafting lamp to minimize the risk of eye strain and a drawing tube to keep your work protected from damage.

Do I need drawing tools if I have AutoCAD?

Yes, you still need the right drawing tools even if you have an AutoCAD program. AutoCAD is a great resource for creating digital drawings and quickly making mock-ups of architectural designs. It isn’t a replacement, though, for the artistry of architectural drawings that are done by hand.

How do I draw blueprints?

Blueprints are one of the most important types of technical drawings for architects. They are essential for documenting design details. To create this type of drawing you will need the aforementioned drawing tools as well as information about the site you plan to blueprint. You will need to know details such as its boundaries, utility placement, and ground elevation.

How do I ensure that my drawings are to scale?

Accuracy is an essential component of any architectural drawing. To ensure that the scale of your drawing is accurate, you should measure the structure you’re drawing and choose a specific ratio to represent its size. For example, if you’re drawing a building that’s 1,000 square feet, you could draw one inch for every 50 square feet.

What kind of paper should I use for technical drawings?

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You can draft a technical drawing on any kind of paper, but rolled bond copier paper is one of the best options for several reasons. In addition to the versatility of its large format, its vellum coating makes it ideal for high-quality prints.

Draft Like a Pro With the Right Architecture Drawing Tools


An artist is only as good as their tools. You need professional drawing equipment to help you craft impeccable architectural drafts. Make sure your tool box is equipped with everything you need by shopping at Engineer Supply. Reach out to us at (800) 591-8907 or shop online for drafting equipment.
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