SketchUp CNC: Cutting Out the Desk Name Plate Modeled in My Book
Using a CNC Router to cut out the desk nameplate project modeled in my book. The material is Styrofoam.
Category Archives: Tools
How to Read the Architect’s Scale
How to read the architect’s scale and write dimension notes in proper architectural format.
Maker Spaces
Libraries and museums are getting into the Maker Space biz, that is, setting up spaces with software and hardware tools for community Makers to use. Google “maker space” and the name of your city to see if there’s one near Continue reading Maker Spaces
Site Visit Tools
Don’t leave home without them! Step ladder, surveyor’s wheel (it clicks off distances like a pedometer), plumb bob for checking walls, carpenter’s triangle for checking corner squareness, a level to check, well, levelness!, a clipboard with graph paper, pencil, flashlight, Continue reading Site Visit Tools
Grid Paper
Grid paper This is paper printed with a grid, a pattern of horizontal and vertical lines spaced at regular intervals. The resultant squares can be assigned numeric values, such as one foot each. Grid paper is usually printed with four Continue reading Grid Paper
The Label Maker
A label maker is an alternative to rub-on letters or hand lettering. It’s especially useful for applying letters to color boards. Tape rolls come in all colors. Buy it at any office supply or discount store.
Using the Dividers
When marking measurements with a scale or dividers, always draw a light construction line first, and mark along it. That ensures that your marks and measurements are true. This orthographic projection worksheet is from my book, Architectural Drafting for Interior Continue reading Using the Dividers
Cleaning technical pens
Technical pens have to be cleaned after each use or they’ll clog up. To clean, disassemble and rinse the tip under cool water. Blot on a paper towel and repeat until no more ink is left. Every few weeks they Continue reading Cleaning technical pens
The Dividers
A dividers is a handy tool for duplicating line lengths without measuring them. Position its points on the endpoints of the line, then move it to the part of the paper where you wish to draw the same length line. Press the points Continue reading The Dividers
Drafting board substrate
You need a board to draft, and that board needs a substrate, or appropriate cover. Vinyl works well; it provides a hard, yet resilient, work surface. Don’t draft directly on a wood board, and don’t use a kitchen table! This photo, Continue reading Drafting board substrate