Materials

I use both vintage and modern compasses. When purchasing a modern compass I would say the necessary features are: an extension bar, a universal adapter and for the compass to be able to open to 14-16cm radius. Another good feature is the centre wheel for precise setting, which also prevents the radius from being accidentally changed when drawing. I use an automatic 0,5 pencil, either H or 2H lead, for the drawing. I use another identical pencil with the universal adapter for the compass (as shown on the photo above). If you choose to use the graphite lead for the compass, it is worthwhile investing in a H or 2H graphite, which will give a sharper line to your drawing. I will be posting a video of how I sharpen both the automatic pencil and the compass graphite. Printer paper suffices for most construction drawings when learning. However, once drawings get busier and compass holes are re-used, the thicker Bristol paper or technical paper will not strain as quickly in these areas. Card is necessary to place under the paper to stabilise the compass needle and prevent damaging the surface of your table. Best card comes at the back of drawing pads, so it is worth saving these. A mounting board can be used when larger size card is necessary. Cutting mat is a more sustainable, although also more expensive alternative. Compared to card it can feel a little stiff for the compass needle, but that extra stability might actually be something desirable. 30cm is probably the most universal ruler, but having the additional 20cm and 50cm is very handy. I use acrylic rulers, I like them being light and see through as well as warm to the touch, but these like to chip and therefore it is necessary to replace them regularly. An automatic fine eraser is a good addition to the ordinary pencil rubber. Colouring pencils come in many varieties, I use the dry as well as the watercolour pencils to fill my patterns. A fine marker is useful for highlighting details. I use letters and numbers to mark the points, but some people find it easier to colour-code them. If so, many colours will be necessary and it is helpful to make a key on the side of your drawing to keep track of how you use them. Tracing paper will be used at a later stage to transfer lines of a construction or grids onto another piece of paper. I use both A4 and A3 tracing paper, but A4 is sufficient as two sheets can be stuck together with washi tape. This tape is a lot gentler than sellotape or masking tape. I found that if produced in Japan it is of superior quality. Most art/craft shops stock washi tape.