Drafting tools and techniques have gone through a lot of changes since personal computers became popular. We dont use slide rules anymore and sepias and track machines are a thing of the past but some drafting equipment remains with us.

The venerable Machinerys Handbook is one of them and plenty of estimators and architects still use engineering and architectural scales. The computer age has brought some cool new tools as well. Heres some links to useful drafting aids and techniques both new and old.

Machinerys Handbook

The machinerys handbook is one text just about every draftsperson, engineer and machinist uses. Find out more about this useful book here.

Laser Distance Measuring

If you have to do a lot of field measuring, a laser measuring tool can make your life a lot easier. In this article I describe the tool I use and give some suggestions about other tools that are available.

Drafting Symbol

Drafting symbol software packages can be very useful to keep the repetitive work at a minimum

Engineering Scales

The engineering scale and the architects scale explained. Why we still need to use these tools in an age where CAD systems supposedly draw everything perfectly to scale.

Drafting chair and drafting stool

Some thoughts about what makes the best drafting chair or drafting stool

Drafting table and drafting desk

If you are looking for a new drafting table or drafting desk, here are some suggestions to help you make that purchase.

Drafting paper and drafting storage

Here is information about the different types of drafting paper or media, both for hand drafting or for use in wide format printers.

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