Cleanliness is key when working on a drafting board. Smudges, fingerprints, and stray marks can ruin the precision and professionalism of your work. Follow these steps to keep your drawings spotless.
What You’ll Need:
- Eraser shield
- Soft eraser (kneaded or vinyl)
- Drafting brush
- Handkerchief or lint-free cloth
- Optional: Protective drafting paper
Step-by-Step Tips:
- Wash Your Hands
Before you begin, wash your hands to remove oils and dirt that can transfer to the paper. Avoid lotions or greasy substances while drafting. - Use a Drafting Brush
- Keep a drafting brush handy to gently sweep away eraser crumbs or pencil shavings.
- Never use your hand to wipe the surface, as it can smear pencil marks or deposit oils.
- Minimize Smudging
- Use a piece of clean paper or a drafting shield under your hand as you work. This protects the drawing surface from oils and smudges.
- Consider working from the top down or from left to right (if right-handed; reverse if left-handed) to avoid dragging your hand over completed sections.
- Keep Your Tools Clean
- Wipe down your T-square, triangles, and other tools regularly to remove graphite dust or ink.
- Check your eraser for dirt and debris before use, and clean it by rubbing it on scrap paper if needed.
- Be Careful with Erasing
- Use an eraser shield to remove unwanted marks without disturbing nearby lines.
- Apply gentle pressure when erasing to avoid tearing or wrinkling the paper.
- Protect Your Drawing During Breaks
- If you’re stepping away, cover your work with a sheet of protective paper to prevent accidental smudges or spills.
- Store your board in a clean, dry area to keep dust and dirt at bay.
Pro Tips:
- Avoid eating or drinking near your drafting board—it’s a recipe for disaster.
- Keep a small lint-free cloth to wipe your hands occasionally if you tend to sweat.
- Use quality pencils and erasers that minimize dust and smudging.
By following these steps, your drawings will stay crisp, clean, and ready to impress!