Expert: Bob - 1/2/2006

Question
Hi Bob,

Well, my question is actually about the archaic art of hand  drafting. I realize your specialty is with AutoCAD, so forgive me but I thought I'd ask anyway. Basically, I am hoping to get some advice on a good text book-type reference material about just drafting (not CAD). I am currently working as an architectural drafsperson and generally get along just fine, but I feel compelled to step it up a notch and become more proficient. And the truth is, I've never really had any so-called formal training in drafting, except for some very basic stuff years and years ago. And I also must admit that I have very little carpentry experience, so my weaknesses lie in things like creating cross-sections, detail drawings and roof framing drawing. Like I said, I can figure most of this stuff out eventually, but not proficiently. Any advice you have will be greatly apreciated...

Thanks! Happy new Year,
Shaun

Answer
HI --
(you mean Architectural Drafting)

A-- Buy a book by Frank Ching -- "Building Construction Illustrated" -- or a similar book showing drawings of details and construction. Maybe 2 books. You learn the detail by drawing it, but once you learn it.......
B --Point out to your employer that when they upgrade AutoCAD, they can crossgrade to Architectural Desktop or Revit for not a lot more. (but then you have to learn it) It is ridiculous to draw sections and details with lines (on the computer) in year 2006, in my view.
Go to Autodesk.com and read up on the products.

"Eventually" and trial and error are very expensive ways to work. Eventually you or the firm will be killed by more efficient competitors.

Good luck -- and I mean this nicely, but seriously.

BOB