Drawing is an activity that can be both fun and practical. Whether you’re looking to get in touch with your creative side or you want to become better at crafting blueprints or engineering plans, the process of drawing begins with the right tools. From drawing boards to reliable writing instruments, having access to the correct equipment can make a world of difference in how you accomplish your tasks. If you want to draw like professionals, you first need to understand what tools to purchase. Use this guide and learn about the basics.
Pencils and Paper
The world of drawing begins with two basic supplies: pencils and paper. While there’s no shortage of options with these tools, you definitely want to put thought behind the investment. Pencils usually follow a system of alphanumeric symbols that highlight how heavy and dark the marks of the instrument will be. The classic pencil used by students, for example, is 2B. If you want to find the right pencil, play around with many options and see which you prefer. Experts often suggest starting with a 4B and working from there.
The type of paper you use will also play a big part in how you feel about the finished product. As with pencils, the paper should be selected based on what feels most comfortable and the type of project you are trying to complete. If you plan on adding ink to the drawing or making a lot of marks with an eraser, thicker paper is the better choice.
Drawing Tables
Another key ingredient in seeing success while drawing is having access to a drafting table. Also called drawing boards, this is the type of furniture that is meant specifically for those who like to draw. Unlike standard desks, these tables can be adjusted to incline the surface at different angles. Since drawing requires long hours spent in front of paper, you want to avoid hunching or curving your back in a way that will cause long-term damage. The right table reduces the odds of holding yourself in uncomfortable positions to complete a project.
Extra Supplies
Countless other tools and accessories are involved in the drawing process. Reliable erasers made from quality materials can help to erase marks from paper without causing damage or smudging the pencil. Rulers allow you the flexibility of making straight lines and edges, while a compass and protractor are perfect for circles and curves. Some artists like to use ink after pencil, and there are plenty of ways to ink a drawing. Review the different supplies available to you in order to know which tools might be best for what you hope to achieve.
Breaking into the world of drawing begins with finding supplies that can help you create perfect images. Start with small stuff like pencils and paper, then head to Engineer Supply to take a better look at essentials like drawing boards. Though it might seem like a lot of supplies at first, you’ll find that a little bit of research makes the entire process more manageable overall. Stock up and become more adept at drawing in no time.