Reddit mentions: The best drafting tools & drafting kits
We found 62 Reddit comments discussing the best drafting tools & drafting kits. We ran sentiment analysis on each of these comments to determine how redditors feel about different products. We found 38 products and ranked them based on the amount of positive reactions they received. Here are the top 20.
1. Alvin, Rolling Parallel Ruler, Multipurpose Ruler Balancing Scale - 12 Inches
- Multipurpose - A clear metric parallel multi-purpose drawing tool made from high impact plastic for students, artists, and designers.
- Smooth Operation - Affords frictionless operation through the floating action of the nylon rollers mounted on the blade.
- Efficient to Use - Draw horizontal and vertical parallel lines with ease. Also allows for easy drawing of circles, curves, or arcs.
- Durable Construction - This parallel straightedge features a rigid phenolic construction with a black satin finish for a sleek yet durable ruling.
- A multi-purpose drawing tool made from high impact plastic for students, artists, and designers. Graduated in both English and metric. Includes many useful formulas and conversion factors. Draw horizontal and vertical parallel lines with ease. Draw circles, curves, or arcs. Use the built-in protractor to draw angles. Blister-carded, instructions on back.
Features:
Specs:
Color | 12 Inches |
Height | 5.13 Inches |
Length | 13.38 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | 12" |
Weight | 0.2 Pounds |
Width | 1 Inches |
2. Alvin, Portable Drafting Boards, 20 x 26 Inches
- Superb Quality - Fully assembled and equipped with features that would help you create an accurate drawings and drafts. Made with a white, aluminum straightedge, acrylic blade.
- Brake Mechanism - Keep your board secured in place using the brake mechanism and rubber grips for convenient work at home or in the field.
- Versatile Blade - Use the crystal clear acrylic blade with inking edges underneath and blade clearance with foam board, cutting mats, and many more. Acrylic blade size: 0.12 inches, blade clearance: 0.19 inches.
- Adjustable Design - Features top-mounted adjustment knobs and folding metal legs to prevent any mid-project interruption or collapse.
- A Professional's Choice - Our PXB drafting boards have been the professional's choice for drafting tools and drawing supplies for over half a century.
Features:
Specs:
Color | White |
Height | 3 Inches |
Length | 26 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | 26 x 20 inches |
Weight | 11 Pounds |
Width | 20 Inches |
3. Arteza 12" Triangular Architect Scale Aluminum Color-Coded Grooves (Imperial)
One 12" Triangular Architect's ruler features 3 sides with 6 different scalesProfessional grade for supreme accuracyColor-coded grooves for quick and accurate selection of the desired scaleMade from high grade anodized aluminumImperial Scale: 1-1/2", 1, 3/4", 3/8", 3/16", 3/32", 1/2" 1/4", 1/8", 3, ...
Specs:
Color | Aluminum |
Height | 14.96 Inches |
Length | 0.98 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | 12 inch |
Weight | 0.15 Pounds |
Width | 2.76 Inches |
4. Alvin, Stainless Steel Ruler, Metal, 12 Inches
- Top Grade Stainless Steel - Made of the finest quality stainless steel and has rounded corners more more comfortable use; stainless steel, metallic in color.
- Cork Backing - The back of the ruler is lined with cork for easy and comfortable use, as well as to help prevent slipping or moving during projects.
- Built durable and flexible, this ruler naturally bends enough to even measure curved surfaces. The cork backing is water resistant and the stainless steel prevents rust and tarnishing.
- Smudgeless Lines - The cork backing also provides extra elevation to keep the ruler edges off of paper, helping you create fine lines without smudging.
- Precision Design - Comes with an attractive brushed surface to minimize glare, and a straight edge that will not deviate for its entire length.
Features:
Specs:
Color | Silver |
Height | 0 Inches |
Length | 0 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | 12" |
Weight | 0.13 pounds |
Width | 0 Inches |
5. HoliFiver Triangular Architectural Scale Ruler – 12” Imperial Scale for Blueprints, Engineering or Drafting – Perfect Gift for Students, Architects, Engineers – Laser-Etched Aluminum Red Finish
✅ ARCHITECTURAL PRECISION: HoliFiver 12" architectural scale ruler has been carefully designed with laser-etched markings to ensure precision and quality. Easy to read markings and red colour turns work into pleasure.✅ STURDY & DURABLE: Built to last forever, HoliFiver 12" architect ruler is cra...
Specs:
Height | 0.83 Inches |
Length | 12.6 Inches |
Width | 0.94 Inches |
6. Alvin, French Curve Ruler, Set of 8, 5.25 Inches, 6.5 Inches, 8 Inches, 8.5 Inches, 12.5 Inches and 10.25 Inches
- Ideal Drafting and Measuring Tool - The Alvin french curve ruler is an ideal tool for drawing irregular curves and connecting lines and line segments.
- The french curve comes with dual inking edges to ensure smudge-free and concise curves. This allows use of pencil and technical pen on both sides of the French curve
- Made of molded 0.08-inch thick transparent polystyrene plastic, it is durable and does not break easily. It is tinted with non-glare smoke gray finish for easy visibility and minimized light glare.
- Protective Case - Comes with a protective vinyl case to keep it secure when not in use. Case pack includes sizes available in 5.25", 6.5", 8", 8.5", 12.5" and 10.25" configurations.
- A Professional's Choice - Alvin, established in 1950, has been the professional's choice for drafting tools and drawing supplies for over half a century.
Features:
Specs:
Color | Clear |
Height | 1 Inches |
Length | 13 Inches |
Number of items | 8 |
Weight | 0.49 Pounds |
Width | 4 Inches |
7. Chartpak Graphic Art Tape, 1/8 W x 324 L Inches, Black Gloss, 1 Roll (BG1251)
- Create even, solid lines for charts, crafts, decorations and signage
- Durable material with permanent adhesive
- Use both indoors and outdoors on clean, dry surfaces
- Works on a variety of surfaces, including plastic, whiteboard, glass, paper, wood, metal and ceramic
- Made in USA
Features:
Specs:
Color | Black Gloss |
Height | 0.1 Inches |
Length | 5.4 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | February 2017 |
Size | Each |
Weight | 0.02 Pounds |
Width | 3.4 Inches |
8. FEP Film for UV 3D Printers - 5mil (0.127mm) Thick - 6 Pack
- 6 - 200x140mm sheets
- Compatible with Anycubic and Wanhao UV 3D Printers
Features:
9. Alvin, Portable Drafting Boards, 16 x 21 Inches
A PROFESSIONAL'S CHOICE - Alvin has been the professional's choice for drafting tools and drawing supplies for over half a century. We are known for our wide selection of high quality tools at a fair price.SUPERB QUALITY - Fully assembled and equipped with features that would help you create an accu...
Specs:
Height | 2 Inches |
Length | 21 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | 21 x 16 inches |
Weight | 7 Pounds |
Width | 16 Inches |
10. Multi-Function A4 Plastic Graphic Architectural Drawing Board with Parallel Motion, Set Square, Clamps, Protractor, Anti Slip Support Legs, Sliding Ruler
- Product Name: PCB Terminal Block
- Packaging Quantity: 40pcs (8 kinds each 5 pcs)
- Pitch: 2.54mm / 3.8mm / 5.08mm / 7.5mm, 2 / 3 Pin
- Rated Value: 150V / 250V / 300V, 6 / 8 / 10A
- Applied to PCB wiring, easy to welding, stable and reliable, spiral wire is not easy to take off the line
Features:
11. Maped Study Geometry 10 Piece Set, Includes 2 Metal Study Compasses, 2 Triangles, 6" Ruler, 4" Protractor, Pencil for Compass, Pencil Sharpener, Eraser, Lead Refill (897010)
Durable metal compasses will not bend or flex during useErgonomically designed compass head is comfortable to holdUniversal Holder Compass work with any standard sized pencil or penCompasses draw up to a 10" diameter circleRulers, Triangles & Protractor feature a name plate for easy identification a...
Specs:
Color | Clear |
Height | 18.976377952756 Inches |
Length | 7.4803149606299 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | Study Metal 10 Piece Kit |
Weight | 0.15 Pounds |
Width | 7.4803149606299 Inches |
12. Alvin, AS1012, Transparent Triangle Set, 10" and 12"
- Easy to Use - All models feature a double-taper cutout center for quick, easy lifting from any angle, making each project more efficient.
- Durable Construction - Made with extra-heavy acrylic that will not discolor or warp with age and handling for long-lasting use.
- Clear Drawing - Refracted light has an illuminating effect on the drawing by accentuating the triangle’s edge.
- Multi-Purpose Tool - Designed to be versatile for many projects, including those invloving architecture, engineering, and drafting. Great for students, hobbyists, and professionals alike.
- Precision Design - Designed for accurate and reliable measurements and consistently straight edges to make every project consistent.
Features:
Specs:
Color | Transparent |
Height | 0.12 Inches |
Length | 12 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | 10" and 12" |
Weight | 0.3 Pounds |
Width | 7 Inches |
13. Westcott 6-Inch Plastic Ruler, Assorted Colors, 2-Pack
- Ruler measures 6 inches
- Features an inches and metric scale with clear and easy to see markings
- Assorted colors (color can't be specified when ordered)
Features:
Specs:
Height | 0.13 Inches |
Length | 8 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | November 2020 |
Weight | 0.02 Pounds |
Width | 2.63 Inches |
14. Staedtler 12-Inches Architect Triangular Scale (98718-31BK)
Color-coded grooves ensure quick and accurate selection of the desired scaleThree sides with six different scales feature die-engraved graduationsThis item is manufactured in JapanSize: 1"W x 12"LPerfect ruler for architects.Perfect ruler for architects.Three sides with six different scales.Open div...
Specs:
Color | Blue |
Height | 1 Inches |
Length | 15.5 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | 12 inches |
Weight | 0.12 Pounds |
Width | 2 Inches |
15. hand2mind 85104 Polydron Triangles (Pack of 100)
- Durable plastic shapes of the polypro geometric construction system feature a unique clip hinge
- Hinge allows students to snap the shapes together to easily explore two-dimensional nets and three-dimensional solids; perimeter, volume, vertices, and angles; and Euler's formula
- These polypro triangles are packaged in a set of 100 pieces
Features:
Specs:
Number of items | 100 |
Release date | March 2017 |
Weight | 1.3 Pounds |
16. RHINO 48 Page 10mm Squares Exercise Book - Red, Pack of 10
- 8 x 6.5 cm (approx), 100% recyclable
- Quality 48 page square ruled exercise book
- Sturdy red 225gsm manila cover, Printed using solvent free, water based inks
- Education standard smooth white paper 75gsm
- Every sale helps the 'Save the Rhino' charity
Features:
Specs:
Color | Red |
Number of items | 10 |
Release date | December 2013 |
Size | 8 x 6.5 |
Weight | 1.322773572 Pounds |
17. Alvin, Black Series, Aluminum Engineer, Hollow Triangular Scale - 13 Inches
ALUMINUM SCALE - High-quality, black anodized aluminum scales have a large profile, hollow core, and tapered edges.PROFESSIONALLY PRECISE - Printed white graduations and color inlaid furrows. Quality checked for supreme accuracy with exact measurements.HOLLOW TRIANGULAR SCALE - All engineer scales h...
Specs:
Color | Black |
Height | 1 Inches |
Length | 14 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | 12" |
Weight | 54.6 ounces |
Width | 1 Inches |
18. Alvin, BDK-1E, Basic Beginner’s Drafting Engineers' Kit, Drawing and Geometry Set
- Alvin is one of the primary sources for drafting supplies and drawing equipment
- We are an authorized dealer for all the product lines that we sell
- All items are brand new and include manufacturers' warranties, so you can buy with confidence
Features:
Specs:
Height | 0.25 Inches |
Length | 16 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Weight | 1.15 Pounds |
Width | 12 Inches |
19. Westcott 8ths 6-Inch Beveled Transparent Ruler (B-50), Clear, 6" x 6.75" x 0.06"
- Calibrated in 16ths to the inch
- Beveled edges
- Zero centering scale
- Transparent plastic
- Laminated for durability
Features:
Specs:
Color | Clear |
Height | 1.13 Inches |
Length | 6.75 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | January 2020 |
Size | 6" x 6.75" x 0.06" |
Weight | 0.01 Pounds |
Width | 0.06 Inches |
20. Staedtler Mars 4 pc Combination Math Set, Durable Plastic, 56932BK
Set includes: 12" ruler, 6"/45-degree triangle, 8"/60-degree triangle and 6"/180-degree protractorMars College Combination Set contains four piecesPlastic
Specs:
Color | Silver,blue |
Height | 0.01 Inches |
Length | 7.75 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Weight | 0.03 Pounds |
Width | 14.88 Inches |
🎓 Reddit experts on drafting tools & drafting kits
The comments and opinions expressed on this page are written exclusively by redditors. To provide you with the most relevant data, we sourced opinions from the most knowledgeable Reddit users based the total number of upvotes and downvotes received across comments on subreddits where drafting tools & drafting kits are discussed. For your reference and for the sake of transparency, here are the specialists whose opinions mattered the most in our ranking.
Bring a tiny stapler. Lots of the printers don't have staplers by them anymore because you can tell it to staple in the settings but who has time for that.
Engineering paper, notebooks, a nice metal ruler, binders if you truly think you're going to use them (and 3 hole punch), something to write assignments/etc in if you think that's helpful to you, a good eraser (I like kneaded ones), you'll need a non-programmable calc for 1101 if you're taking it (TI-34, like $10), index cards for studying, binder clips are the absolute best for everything. Post it tabs are awesome for marking up books that you might sell back.
Check with your roommate(s) about who's got a fridge, microwave, possible TV/gaming system/etc so you don't both bring them. (ALSO A BOX FAN!) Same if someone's got a futon. Flat pack is good if you might not need/want it, you can shove it under a bed or something. Some folks like rugs, I know the carpet in some rooms is pretty gross. If you're in McNair you can probably live without a fridge, there are full size ones in the kitchenettes and people are pretty good about respecting labels. They also have decent sized TVs in the kitchenettes (basically McNair has the best kitchenettes). I've heard and experienced both ends of the spectrum for Wads - kitchenettes only have minifridges anyway, and the suites come with them.
Make sure your boots, coat, snowpants are both warm and waterproof, you can spray them with silicone spray if you're not sure. (Especially if you're planning on helping with snow statues during Carni). I recommend Columbia and/or Mountain Hard Wear, had good experiences with both. A balaclava type thing is definitely a good choice, plus an assortment of hats/gloves/etc for different weather/days/whatever. Wet gloves are not fun. Get ski goggles or similar, you'll thank me later.
Quarters for the dryer, don't bother with one of those pop up laundry hampers, get a decent bag or just bring the stereotypical laundry basket - I've seen many of these, and I have one myself, and it's lasted more than five years. Just put your name on it or something so somebody doesn't think it's theirs.
Dumb stuff you might not think about: extension cords, power strips, ethernet splitter/switch (only 1 port per room which kind of sucks), stuff like WD-40, super glue, goo-gone, magic eraser, zip ties, flip flops for the shower, shower caddy/bucket, a mirror (if in Wads), (not) duct tape, 3M hooks for all the things, poster putty/sticky tack... a cool/funny/weird hat if you're planning on joining pep band, your instrument if the above may apply to you, hockey/etc equipment for broomball (look for stuff early for the best deals)...
I am assuming from your profile that you are in the U.S. and will be attending a U.S. school.
First of all, I echo what others have said about questioning "Architecture Engineering". Architecture and Engineering are related but otherwise completely different disciplines. Yes, you use some mathematics and engineering knowledge when practicing architecture, and many engineers also use design principles, but in terms of your education these are very different majors. If I had to guess based upon other programs I've seen, I would hazard that "Architecture Engineering" is some kind of composite course that covers bits of Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, Construction Engineering, maybe Mechanical Systems (HVAC, Plumbing, Etc.), and maybe even Construction Management. Each of these is difficult academic program all its own, and I can't imagine there being meaningful time for any sort of Architecture Studio curriculum, let alone interior design.
That said, you need to decide if you want to go into Design(Architecture/Interior Design) or Engineering first; don't waste time and money pursuing programs that you aren't interested in. If your goal is to become a practicing, licensed architect then you need to get a NCARB accredited degree from an accredited College of Architecture. This usually takes the form of getting an undergraduate Bachelor of Science in Architecture followed by a Master of Architecture. The Master's degree is the actual accredited, professional degree which is required in order to become licensed. Of course, that means you could study whatever you wanted as your undergraduate degree and still apply to a Master program, but I think you'd be very lost without the solid foundation that an undergraduate architecture degree gives. During or following school, you also must intern under a licensed Architect who will sign off on how many hours you work for the Architecture Experience Program. Once you have completed these hour requirements as well as the professional architecture degree from your Masters, you must pass the Architectural Registration Exam, a series of exams which test your capabilities and education. Finally, after that, you may legally practice architecture and call yourself ARCHITECT.
So, regarding your questions, it's VERY important that you start actually researching the profession of architecture to see if it's even what you want to do. I HIGHLY recommend you read Architect? A Candid Guide To The Profession by Roger Lewis. It's the most accurate, thorough and honest overview of the entire process of practicing architecture that I've found. Architecture is a competitive field which requires an intense dedication and discipline to mastering a wide array of complex and disparate skills. It costs a lot of money and at least 7 or so years of your life to become an architect. One upside is that the skills you learn can be applied to all kinds of other industries, though, so many people don't even stick with architecture following graduation but find work in all kinds of other design fields.
Architects, in general, don't make very much money. In general, you won't really be hitting your stride in your profession until your early 50s. Most of this job is sitting down at a computer/desk for very long periods of time doing very monotonous work for someone else. In practicing professionally, you'll find that most people want a simple box for their home/business, and would much rather spend their money on their families/a boat/investments than a nice building. I don't say all this to be cynical, but it's just part of it you have to be ready for. Most of this job is enormously fulfilling, but it's on you to find that.
If, after all of this, you are still interested in Architecture, here's my recommendation for preparing for the Fall:
Of course, this is all based upon my own meandering experience, and parts of this probably don't apply to every person. Take it with a grain of salt.
Feel free to DM me if you have any further questions. Good luck!
This is... really good for a second day doing calligraphy. Actually, it's pretty damn good for a second month doing calligraphy. Stop making the rest of us look bad by comparison, you talented jerk! >:( Ok, but you wanted tips on how to improve. So...
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It's good that you're using a nib ladder, but it looks like you aren't using guidelines? Either that, you're using guidelines that are misaligned. One of these two things is causing irregular letter heights, and for each line of letters to sag downwards as it goes to the right.
Either way, it's an easy fix: when you make a nib ladder, align a straightedge to the bottom and draw a line to the opposite end of the page (a lot of people on here use a T-square or a rolling ruler; I usually just use another piece of paper because it's easier to tell if it's really perpendicular and also I am a cheapskate). Then do the same thing to the top of the nib ladder. If you want, you can also make a nib ladder on the opposite end of the page to check if the lines are really parallel. Do this for a whole page of lines.
When you've done this once, you can use that piece of paper to rule future practice papers: just make tick marks at the places the guidelines begin/end and use a straightedge to draw between them.
*
Other than that, it looks really good, especially for the second day! You have all the letterforms down, your strokes are confident, and you're keeping the nib at a consistent angle. I'm especially impressed with C, O, Q, and G—it was months before my circles were that even. some days they still arent! If not for your title, I'd have guessed you were at least 3 weeks along. Bravo!*
>The letters S, X, and Z
Saaaaaaame :( I'd suggest studying the geometry of those letters. X and Z are basically diagonals drawn across a rectangle. Figure out the proportions of that rectangle (x units wide by y units tall) and try to internalize them. Try drawing a bunch said rectangles and filling them with X's and Z's. Then have that in mind while writing them. It looks like you might already be doing this, since they're underlined? If so, ignore this entire paragraph except the last sentence. If not, I found this pdf to be mildly helpful, although not as helpful as I thought it would be when I first found it, if that makes sense. I'm afraid it's mostly going to come down to practice.
S is like that, but more complicated. There's guides out there that have it as circles inside of circles, or inside a half-square, but I could never keep it all in my head. So far, I don't have a better answer than "practice, compare with examplar, practice some more." There's some pretty awesome people in this sub, though, so maybe one of them will have better advice.
One final note that has nothing to do with calligraphy:
Personally, I enjoyed the capability of my table-top drafting table that I ended up giving to a friend, but that may not always be the best suited since you either need a table or a somewhat stable surface to sit on (can work laying over your lap on a couch, for instance).
I always thought having a collapsible drafting table (stand folds up; think TV dinner tray), that would stand on its own, and be sturdy enough to not move when in use (locking positioning will be crucial). Given the fact that she paints, glass is probably the best idea. Also, angle adjustment will likely be very important to swap between a building surface for models, and a drafting surface for drawing.
This was the portable drafting table I had.
This is more what I always thought would be awesome to have, but it doesn't have the attached straight-edge; which I would deem necessary, but your girlfriend may not.
Hopefully those examples can lead you into building something appropriate.
Best of luck and have fun!
If it’s in its own room, there is an adapter on Thingiverse for a 4” tube to go to a fan and such to vent out a window.
https://youtu.be/Rhyf_JttQEY watch this to learn how to properly hollow prints. You don’t have to for jewelry unless it’s really thick but otherwise it’s worth doing to save on that expensive resin.
I personally only use Anycubic resin. I tried one of the cheaper trains on Amazon (monoprice) and couldn’t get anything to print on it. Ended up slowly mixing that resin into some Anycubic resin to not have a waste of a bottle.
If you have Facebook, there are great groups out there for troubleshooting and discussion
https://youtu.be/roAqm5c3rfU this is the flint reed method of leveling the bed. I heard of it before I got my printer and used this method out of the box. Works perfectly
FEP Film for UV 3D Printers - 5mil (0.127mm) Thick - 6 Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CTT6JNR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_NQG5Bb1A0EJ4A
You’ll eventually need to change out the film. These work great and cost way less than the official $10 single sheet. YouTube how to change out. Pretty simple after you do it once.
When using the Photon slicer, I always use medium or heavy supports. Had several failures trying to use just light supports
That’s all I can think of for now.
If you're not comfortable with curves, but are willing to prototype in cardstock, then I would recommend picking up a set of drafter's french curves. I have this set of 8, and they are a nice thick plastic (you can definitely just apply them to a squarish leather scratch-out and scratch against them ad-hoc), that you can make tick marks against with a sharpie to use the 'same curve' on multiple pieces.
I don't know a good way to make pleasing curves without doing it by eye, and I don't know a good way to make those curves discrete/repeatable without using a french curve. Bonus - these are also great for a wide variety of corner rounding.
I like it, nice coverage and cool stickers. What might look cool is to add a black border around the edges with the really thin marking tape like this: https://www.amazon.com/Chartpak-Graphic-Inches-Black-BG1251/dp/B002Q1I2AG/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1505996982&sr=8-2&keywords=thin+electrical+tape
I really like it, good job!
If she's into pen(cil) and paper, she might enjoy a prortable drafting table (such as https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001E1RFW0/ref=asc_df_B001E1RFW05085944)
... plus a triangle. My parents did this for me when I took a drafting elective in high school & I enjoyed it.
Sketchup & other software is super useful, but a helluva learning curve. As others have said, introduce her to the greats & help her find a style she digs. I was obsessed once I learned about Frank Lloyd Wright.
Surce: Not an architect, but strongly considered it & believe I could've enjoyed the career.
What you're talking about is technical drawing. It's a vanishing art . . . or rather, it's a dwindling technique, because it isn't really art at all. It's all migrated to the digital environment, now.
It isn't actually easy to do in Photoshop, or not correctly. It is easy to do in AutoCad, Sketchup, and a host of other CAD platforms. Manually, it's mathematical. You use scale, meaning that, for instance, you draw a .25" line on your paper for every 1' of real measurement. You can find some common scales here.
You can't do precise work freehand. To implement scale correctly, you'll need the tools of the trade; a drafting table, straight-edges, scales (a special sort of ruler) compasses, etc, Wikipedia has a nice article on these tools. And here's a more pragmatic Amazon link to get you started, as well as a collection of YouTube tutorials.
I work full time in Sketchup, by the way, and apply my drafting training (from shop class way back in 80's era junior high) all the time. Unlike other CAD programs, the tools are designed to be intuitive to folks who understand this kind of technical drawing. It's also free, so if you feel like moving off paper and into the digital realm once you've got the hang of it, knock yourself out.
This isn't exactly what you asked about, but maybe it'll help anyway.
I occasionally make lines between the dots of my LT1917 A5 and I use this ruler to do so. I line up the grid of the ruler using the dots on the page and draw the lines pretty easily. Obviously, this can still have some errors occur, but if you really like your LT1917, it might be worth it.
Any type of notebook can be a BuJo notebook - that's the beauty of it!
I really don't care too much about the fanciness in mine, so I use old A5 maths exercise books like this as I find it easy to plot it all out!
Hey there! I'm thinking a geometry set that includes a protractor and miscellaneous drafting tools. Those were indispensable my 7th grade year.
OR, if he's not at that level, maybe a notebook with a quick-reference sheet. There are math-themed, English-themed, and Geography-themed notebooks which have simple equations, syntax rules, or world maps. Those were always awesome! :)
You might also consider a drafting square. I use them in the shop. My large one is great for setting my miter gauge and checking my sled, and checking cabinet glue ups. They are usually pretty cheap and very accurate. https://www.amazon.com/Alvin-AS1012-Transparent-Triangle-Set/dp/B00EF1RU0S/ref=sr_1_15?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIoMe78PSj4gIVwbjACh1LogbjEAAYASAAEgJ1RPD_BwE&hvadid=241935832463&hvdev=t&hvlocphy=9016884&hvnetw=g&hvpos=1t1&hvqmt=e&hvrand=10471655247492021800&hvtargid=kwd-1798148374&hydadcr=24660_10400767&keywords=drafting+square&qid=1558142438&s=gateway&sr=8-15
Well holy shit here's a 2-pack for $27.35: http://www.amazon.com/Westcott-6-Inch-Plastic-Assorted-Colors/dp/B00BTMV9D0/ref=sr_1_1?s=office-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1375400446&sr=1-1&keywords=6+inch+ruler
Go give your Fisher rep a big hug I guess.
Here's my point of reference though. I work for a company that distributes bic lighters. (TL;DR we profit by selling them for 39 cents). Think about how much more complex a bic lighter is than a plastic ruler. There is a metal cap and multiple different types of plastic (body, fuel line, fuel button) and a sparking mechanism with moving parts and different material components. There are two stickers, the logo (multicolored) and the UPC. Most importantly, it comes filled with fuel. Besides the complication of filling the thing on the assembly line (I'm guessing this is at least as complicated as marking a ruler), this makes the product a "hazardous material". Once you are considered hazmat, you have a whole extra set of paperwork and regulations to follow. My company employs drivers to take these from our central warehouse all over the continental United States. Our drivers have to be CDL with hazmat certification. Add the fuel cost for the trucks, and the wages of all the people in the central and regional warehouses that handle and package the things. Now add the cost of handling returned merchandise and you have all of that on a return trip, plus every returned lighter is checked by hand. Now a mini bic lighter retails typically for 79 cents. My company makes a nice profit selling them to convenience stores for 39 cents. Now maybe there is a good explanation to why a ruler would sell for a comparable amount, maybe they sell so few a year that it makes up all that difference in bulk handling, but you can see why I'm skeptical.
This is a physical way of demonstrating one (of many) definition of scalar curvature. Wikipedia has a good formula and explanation. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scalar_curvature#Direct_geometric_interpretation
Hopefully a more intuitive explanation is the following. Let A(r) denote the area of a circle (the set of all points in the surface at distance r to p) around a point p on the surface. Express A(r) as a Taylor expansion around r = 0. At orders 0 through 3, the series matches the formula one would get in flat space. At fourth order, it stops matching (in flat space the series is just \pi r\^2), and the coefficient of r\^4 is scalar curvature.
What this means is that for surfaces of positive curvature, there is less area than there should be in the plane, so when you flatten it into a plane there's a gap. For surfaces of negative curvature, there is more area than there should be in the plane, so you get a ripple refusing to flatten down. I like to think of a kale leaf.
When I learned this, my prof brought a kale leaf to class. I have a favorite tool for demonstrating this to students: https://www.amazon.com/ETA-hand2mind-85104-Polydron-Triangles/dp/B06XJH14M8
I haven't seen anything like that in a stencil form, but perhaps something like this might help you.
You could get a parallel straightedge board. I got one a few years ago but haven't gotten much use out of it since they really don't teach manual drafting at my engineering school.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001700RFU/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Or if you have the space and want to get REALLY fancy, a drafting machine. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drafting_machine
Neither of these are particularly good for notebooks though.
I really like aluminum architect rulers like this one
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0015AOL40/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_PnR5xb1JNT0G1
Look for drafting supplies. Just do a quick search on Amazon.com and find some kits. Mechanical pencils get a thin and a thick for different line weights, or pens if he prefers but I make to many mistakes to go with ink. Triangle scale rulers are awesome and in my mind a must.
https://smile.amazon.com/Alvin-BDK-1E-Beginners-Drafting-Engineers/dp/B000JM47FS/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1481911877&sr=8-3&keywords=drafting
https://smile.amazon.com/Staedtler-Combo-Circle-Template-977/dp/B000KIBQ46/ref=pd_sim_229_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=HDZAG4H645K0RBS0WTGD
https://smile.amazon.com/Staedtler-Drafting-Mechanical-Pencils-925WP3/dp/B000GR7SUM/ref=pd_sim_229_1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=HDZAG4H645K0RBS0WTGD
If you are going to try Broom Stick Lace, I suggest picking up a drafting ruler. The triangle shape makes it much easier to slip the hook in.
They have them on Amazon or at office supply stores.
Arteza 12" Triangular Architect Scale Aluminum Color-Coded Grooves (Imperial) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LY2BJ1G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_pa0BCbVWWWPEE
Don't buy plastic crap because it sucks and breaks easily and little cracks make it impossible to draw a straight line.
http://www.amazon.com/Staedtler-Combination-Durable-Plastic-56932BK/dp/B000KIA4I0/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1453322033&sr=8-5&keywords=staedtler+drafting+triangles
http://www.amazon.com/Staedtler-Piece-Compass-559-09BK/dp/B00UENAQM0/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1453322081&sr=8-4&keywords=staedtler+compass
You won't regret it.
Like this one? https://smile.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01LY2BJ1G/ref=mp_s_a_1_3/132-3557358-8743653?ie=UTF8&qid=1494559555&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=Architect+scale&dpPl=1&dpID=51s9kGRO8IL&ref=plSrch#immersive-view_1494559967675
I'm guessing I'd use the marks on the green side labeled 1?
Architects and engineers commonly use scales like this one.
Plans drawn at 3/4" scale means that 3/4" on the paper equals 1' in real life. So, on the ruler, every 3/4" is marked incrementally, indicating the number of feet the measurement is.
The device on the right here is a parallel ruler. The idea is it slides perpendicular to the lines you draw, so that you can draw parallel lines. Like this.
I use an architects ruler like this. It lets me "scale" my drawings and work out dimensions. But I don't go full blown "drafting"... There are youtube videos on how to use them.
I bought these and they have been working just as well as the included fep, correct size and everything.
Go Rams! Drafting is drawing the various pieces of the set to scale and often from multiple angles. For example, 1/4" = 1' would be scaled down to 1/48th of the original size, so a 4' x 8' standard platform would be drawn at 1"x2" in the drawing. Get yourself one of these bad boys and once you learn how to use it, it can help handle the math for you.
I bought these sheets, https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07CTT6JNR/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1. 6 sheets for $30.
That's the stuff I use...
Geometry box
I think they would absolutely work without the glitter! Painting the inside should work, but you might have to do multiple coats to cover any streaking.
I know they make lots of thickness of black tape that aren't glittery. I was originally going to use this until I found the glitter tape:
http://www.amazon.com/Chartpak-CHABG1251-Graphic-Tapes/dp/B002Q1I2AG/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1449277862&sr=8-6&keywords=whiteboard+tape
For the button they make the same type of cardboard in matte colors. If you go to the scrap-booking section of any craft store they'll be a bunch styles/colors to choose from!
I just came here to be snooty and tell you architects dont use rulers, we use scales ;P
https://www.amazon.com/Staedtler-12-Inches-Architect-Triangular-98718-31BK/dp/B001E67XZ4
I used silver prismatic ( pretty) duct tape and a neon index card to make a pocket for my small ruler