TECHNICAL PENS
Technical pens are capable of producing precise, consistent ink
lines without the application of pressure. As with lead holders and
mechanical pencils, technical pens from different manufacturers
vary in form and operation. Most technical pens, however, utilize an
ink-flow-regulating wire within atubular nib, the size of which
determines the w of the ink line.
idth
There are a dozenpoint sizes available, from extremely fine
(6 x 0, equivalent to 0.13 m to very w (7, equivalent to 2 mm).
m)
ide
Stainless-steel tips are satisfactory for drawing on vellum but
wear too quickly on drafting film. Tungsten or jewel tips are
required for drafting on film.
Astarting pen set should include the following point sizes:
• 4 x 0 0.18 mm line width
•0
0.35 mm line w
idth
•1
0.50 m linewidth
m
•3
0.80 mm line w
idth
_ . _-- -· T t ubular point should be long enough to clear the thickness of
he
draftingtriangles and straightedges.
• Use waterproof, nonclogging, fast-drying black drawing ink.
• Keep points screwed in securely to prevent ink leaking.
• After each use, replace thepen cap firmly to prevent the ink
from drying.
• When pens are not in use, store them with their tips up.
Digital Stylus
Thedigital equivalent of the pen and pencil ist he stylus. Used with
a digitizing tablet and appropriate software, it replaces the mouse
and enables the user to draw in afreehand manner. Some models
and software are able to detect and respond to the amount of
hand pressure to mimic more realistically the effects of traditional
media.
4 /A R HITECTURAL GRAPHICS
C