A You’ve finally decided to take the plunge into drawing and want to start acquiring the right tools. But with so many options at the art supply store, all those metal nibs and wooden handles can get confusing fast. Before you grab a fistful of pens and go, it helps to know what each instrument can do for your art.
In this article, we’ll break down the most common and versatile drawing Instruments so you can curate the perfect starter set for your style and budget. We’ll explore how to wield each tool to take your drawings above stick figures and scribbles. So grab a sketchbook, and let’s dive into the basics of drawing instruments for every skill level!
13 Drawing Instruments and Their Uses
Drawing instruments are the specialized tools used by artists, architects, engineers and designers to create precise technical drawings or illustrations. These allow for accurate measurements, clean lines and geometric shapes.
Mastering the use of these tools is crucial for any serious drafter. The right drawing instruments enable clean, professional-quality technical drawings and blueprints. With practice, they become an extension of the artist’s hand. These are some of the main drawing tools and instructions.
Drawing Board
A drawing board is a flat, portable surface used for technical or artistic drawing. It provides a smooth, rigid base to work on while allowing you to tilt the board to your desired angle.
Key Functions of Drawing Board
- Offers a stable surface for precise drawing and drafting work.
- The ability to adjust the angle aids visibility and ergonomics.
- Portable design allows you to work anywhere.
How to Use a Drawing Board
- Set the board at a comfortable tilt by adjusting the built-in stand or prop it against a table edge.
- Secure your paper using clips, tape or the board’s ledge.
- Work with pencils, technical pens, or brushes directly on the board’s surface.
With a drawing board, artists and designers gain control, portability, and a dedicated workspace, essential for detailed, intricate drawings.
Set squares
The Set squares are essential drafting tools. They’re transparent plastic triangles used for drawing perpendicular lines and measuring angles. There are two types, 30°/60° and 45°. Set squares allow you to draw precise right angles, parallel lines, and angles of 30°, 45°, 60°, etc. The hypotenuse side is marked with scales to measure lengths.
To use, place the square’s right angle snug against a straightedge ruler. Draw lines along its edges for perfect 90° and 45°/60° angles. Use the scales to measure. Keep them clean and scratch-free.
Mini Drafter
A mini drafter, also called a drafting machine or parallel motion drafting head, is a compact drawing instrument. It allows you to draw parallel lines and maintain consistent angles effortlessly. The mini size makes it super portable and easy to carry around.
Mini drafters use a system of pivot joints and linking arms to keep the drawing head perfectly stable. As you move it, the head glides smoothly in perfect parallel lines or angles. This ensures clean, accurate technical drawings every time.
Simply secure your paper, adjust the angle locks, and start drawing! The stable drawing head does all the hard work for you. Mini drafters are great for drafting, illustrations, calligraphy and more. Their small size fits easily on any desk or drafting table.
Eraser
An eraser is a small, handheld tool used for removing pencil markings or mistakes from paper. It’s an essential drawing instrument that allows you to correct errors and achieve a clean, polished look.
These little wonders don’t just erase; they enable you to refine your work. With an eraser, you can lighten shaded areas, create highlights, and blend tones seamlessly. Its soft, pliable texture makes it ideal for detailed erasing or broad strokes.
Using an eraser is easy; simply rub gently over any unwanted pencil marks. For precision, hold the eraser between your thumb and forefinger. Rotate it frequently to expose a fresh surface and avoid smudging. Replace worn erasers regularly for best results.
Drawing Pencil
A drawing pencil is an artist’s tool used to create sketches, drawings and illustrations. It consists of a wooden casing with a graphite core that varies in hardness or softness. The core darkness ranges from light to jet black.
Drawing pencils are graded based on the hardness of their cores. The softer the lead, the darker and richer the mark. Harder pencils create lighter, more precise lines.
- H pencils (hard) are for technical drawings and fine details
- B pencils (soft/black) are ideal for shading and bold strokes
Start with an HB or No. 2 pencil in the middle range. Use a light touch for sketching and apply more pressure for thicker, darker lines. Blend tones with a paper stump or tortillon. Sharpen frequently with a small pencil sharpener.
Drawing Clips or Pins
Drawing clips, also known as paper clips or pins, are simple yet invaluable tools. They’re metal wires bent into a looped shape to hold papers together. Super handy for keeping your sketches organized! Using drawing clips is a breeze. Just slide one end through the top corner of your papers. The looped end will hold everything neatly in place. No more messy stacks of loose drawings!
Drawing clips prevents your artwork from getting lost or mixed up. They’re inexpensive, reusable, and take up hardly any space in your supplies. Plus, the pop of color can brighten up your workspace.
Drawing Sheet
A drawing sheet is a specialized type of paper used for creating technical drawings and sketches. These sheets have a slightly off-white or cream color and a smooth surface ideal for pencils, pens, and other drafting tools.
Key Functions of a Drawing Sheet
Drawing sheets serve several key purposes:
- Provide a standardized layout for drawings with pre-printed borders and title blocks
- Offer a sturdy base that can withstand extensive erasing and redrawing
- Allow for precise scaling and dimensioning due to their gridded format
How to Use a Drawing Sheet
To use a drawing sheet effectively:
- Secure it to a drafting board or table using masking tape or drafting clips
- Fill out the title block with details like the project name, date, scale, etc.
- Use the gridlines as guides to maintain proper scale and proportions
- Draw your design using technical pens, pencils, or CAD software
- Make revisions by layering with additional drafting film or tracing paper
With its specialized properties, the drawing sheet is an indispensable tool for architects, engineers, and drafters alike.
Pencil Sharpener
A pencil sharpener is a simple tool used to sharpen the tip of a pencil. It’s an essential accessory for artists, students, or anyone who frequently uses pencils. A sharp, precise point allows for better control and finer details when drawing or writing.
There are different types, from compact handheld models to larger desktop sharpeners. Handheld sharpeners are portable and convenient, while desktop versions offer a sturdier base and often have larger openings to accommodate thicker pencils or colored pencils.
Using a pencil sharpener is straightforward; insert the pencil into the sharpening hole and twist it. The blades inside will gradually shave off the wood casing to reveal a fresh, sharp point. Some models also have a separate opening for sharpening the pencil’s wood casing.
For the best results, regularly sharpen your pencils. A dull, worn-down tip makes it harder to create clean lines or shading. With a quality sharpener on hand, you’ll always have the right tools to bring your drawings and notes to life with precision.
Technical Pen
A technical pen is a specialized drawing instrument. It features a tubular body and thin metal tip to create crisp, precise lines on paper. The nib is refillable with technical drawing ink.
These pens excel at rendering fine lines, lettering, illustrations and technical drawings. Their accuracy makes them ideal for architectural plans, engineering diagrams, comic art and calligraphy.
To use, ensure the nib is cleaned and filled with ink. Adjust the nib pressure and angle while drawing for consistent, uniform line widths. Replace nibs as needed when they become worn.
Compass and Dividers
A compass is that iconic drawing tool with pointed ends and an adjustable swing arm. Its main job? Creating perfect circles and arcs every time. Just anchor the pointy end, extend the pencil end to your desired radius, and spin away.
Similar look different purpose. Dividers let you easily transfer measurements or mark off equidistant points. The two legs pivot at a joint so you can “walk” the step spacing along a line. Handy for things like laying out evenly spaced design elements.
These tools work great as a duo. First, use the compass to strike your initial arc or circle guides. Then, employ the dividers to mark off spaces within those curved boundaries. With a little geometry know-how, you’ll be drafting masterpieces in no time!
French Curve
A French curve is a multi-curved ruler used for drawing smooth curved lines. It gets its name from its origins in French drafting. These plastic or wooden templates provide a continuous array of arcs that drafters rely on.
These unique curved rulers allow you to draw graceful, flowing lines with precision. They come in handy for drawing curved borders, illustrations, lettering, logos, and any design that requires elegant arcs. French curves enable smooth curve transitions that rulers cannot produce.
To use a French curve, simply select the curve segment that matches the arc you need. Place the curve’s edge against your straight edge or previous line. Then, run your pencil along the curve’s edge to extend the graceful curve. Rotate and reposition the curve as needed to create the desired line.
T-square
A T-square is a technical drawing instrument that looks like a ‘T’. It has a long, straight edge (the blade) attached perpendicularly to a shorter section (the head). This simple but effective tool is a must-have for any draftsman or architect.
The primary function is to draw horizontal parallel lines on a drawing board. However, it can also help measure lengths, align objects precisely, and even draw angled lines when combined with set squares or triangles.
To use it, rest the head against the edge of your board and slide the blade across to draw crisp, unwavering lines. Secure the head in place with your other hand while drawing. Its precision makes the T-square indispensable for technical illustrations and blueprints.
Templates
Templates are pre-designed layouts or patterns used as a guide for creating new drawings or shapes. They provide a consistent structure and formatting, saving time and effort. Drawing templates are useful for all types of design work since they enable you to consistently draw various shapes.
Best Practices for Using Drawing Tools
These are some of the best practices for using drawing tools:
Always Start Simple
Begin with the basics; a pencil and paper are all you need. Mastering fundamental techniques will serve you well before moving to more advanced tools.
Maintain a Clean Workspace
Keep your drawing area organized and free from clutter. This allows you to focus solely on the task at hand.
Explore Different Mediums
Experiment with various pens, markers, pastels, charcoal, etc. Each medium offers unique characteristics to enhance your art.
Study from Life
Draw from real objects, people, or landscapes whenever possible. Observational skills are critical for realistic renderings.
Practice Shading and Value
Pay close attention to highlights, midtones and shadows. Proper shading brings depth and dimension to your drawings.
Invest in Quality Tools
Quality art supplies, though pricier, will last longer and produce better results than cheap alternatives.
Take Care of Your Tools
Clean brushes/pens properly after use. Store them carefully to prolong their lifespan.
Study Perspective Principles
Understanding linear perspective will help achieve accurate spatial relationships in your compositions.
Keep a Sketchbook Handy
Carry a small sketchbook to capture ideas or practice drawing anytime, anywhere.
Proper Care and Maintenance of Drawing Instruments
To properly care for and maintain your drawing Instruments, follow these guidelines.
Keep Them Clean
Always wipe off any dirt, dust or debris from your drawing tools after use. Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently clean the blades, handles and joints. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the instruments.
Store Properly
Keep your drawing set in a protective case or box when not in use. This prevents accidental damage and prolongs their lifespan. Never leave them loose in a bag or drawer.
Check for Damage
Inspect frequently for any bent tips, loose hinges or worn-down parts that need replacing. Don’t force stuck or jammed pieces – this could break them.
Sharpen Periodically
High-quality compasses and dividers have removable pencil leads that require regular sharpening for precise lines. Use a small sharpener designed for drafting leads.
Replace Worn Parts
Over time, parts like lead holders, bow compasses and curve rulers may need new leads, points or inking nibs installed when worn down from heavy use.
Use Correct Technique
Holding and using drawing tools properly reduces strain and wear. Follow instructions, keep a light grip, and avoid excessive force when scribing or inking.
Oil Moving Joints
A few drops of lightweight machine oil on pivot points and hinges keep tools moving smoothly. Wipe away any excess after application.
Careful Transport
Always secure drawing instruments in their case during transport to prevent jostling and damage in transit between worksites or classrooms.
Conclusion
We’ve gone over some of the most common and essential drawing instruments that every artist should have in their toolkit. From the trusty graphite pencil to the drawing template, each one serves its own unique purpose for sketching, drafting, measuring, and marking. Don’t be overwhelmed trying to get them all at once, though. Start with the basics like a pencil, eraser, and ruler. As your skills progress, add in more specialized tools. The key is to experiment and find which ones feel best for your style and comfort level. With the right instruments, you’ll be rendering beautiful drawings in no time.