8
A Minimalist's Guide to Architectural Drawing Tools - Part 1
As an architecture student, there are certain tools and materials that quickly become staples of your daily life. The list of supplies you’re handed at the start of your studies can often feel overwhelming—and honestly, some of it will barely be touched. However, there’s no denying that having the right tools makes all the difference in your work, creativity, and overall success.
If you’re serious about turning your passion for architecture into a career, then investing in high-quality tools can make a massive impact on both your design process and your long-term success as a student and, eventually, as an architect. It’s not about accumulating tons of supplies—it’s about having the right ones.
First things first, you will be sketching and drawing a lot. So here are the tools I use a lot on a daily.
1) Uni Kuru Toga Mechanical Pencil - 0.5mm
One of my go-to pencils for daily use is this high-quality, precision tool from a renowned Japanese brand. I rely on it for sketching, note-taking, and occasionally (though rarely) for marking dimensions on models. The pencil features a rotating mechanism that adjusts as you write, but I’ve found it less useful when sketching. Given its fine line quality and weight, I typically use it for smaller sketches or adding intricate details to larger drawings. Its craftsmanship and reliability make it an essential part of my architectural toolkit.
2) rOtring Rapid Pro Mechanical Pencil - 0.7mm
Another pencil I frequently use is one with a slightly thicker lead, ideal for outlining and general drawing. What stands out most to me is the pencil's weight and the overall quality of its casing. As I write or sketch with it, the experience feels noticeably superior to any other pencil I’ve used. The solid construction and balanced feel make it a pleasure to work with, offering both comfort and precision for architectural sketches and drawings. It’s become an essential tool in my everyday design process.
3) E+M Workman Long Clutch Lead Holder - 5.5 mm
This pencil is a recent addition to my "toolbox," and I absolutely love it. Its minimalist, sleek design is not only visually appealing but also speaks to its high-quality craftsmanship. Perfect for sketching out rough ideas or adding shading to drawings, it has quickly become one of my go-to tools for both conceptual work and refining details. The blend of form and function makes it an essential part of my architectural toolkit.
4) Muji Gel Ink Ball Point Pen, Black + Blue - 0.38mm
If you haven’t noticed yet, I exclusively use pens and pencils made in Japan or Germany. Over the years, I’ve come to trust that these two countries consistently produce superior quality tools. The pens I use are my personal preference for note-taking, as they offer both reliability and precision that I haven’t found elsewhere. Their craftsmanship and performance make them indispensable in my daily architectural work.
5) Sakura Micron Pen Set, Black - 01
These pens have become incredibly popular and are now widely used, but they remain my go-to choice for sketching. I love working in ink, and I carry this pen with me along with my personal sketchbook everywhere I go. The thickness of the line is just right—not too thick, not too thin—making it perfect for both note-taking and sketching. It’s versatile enough to be used for finer details in drawings as well, adding a level of precision and fluidity that complements my architectural workflow.
6) Ultra Fine Tip Sharpie Marker - Black
I use this pen as a medium layer in my drawings to add depth to my sketches. It’s slightly thicker than the Micron pen, providing a bolder, more pronounced line while still maintaining consistency. This makes it perfect for creating contrast and dimension in architectural sketches, helping to define elements and enhance the overall composition of the drawing.
7) Pentel Sign Pen - Black + Red
I use this pen for the thickest lines in my drawings, and you can see examples of it in action on my Instagram account. This black pen is a staple in my daily routine, whether I'm working in the office or at school. I also rely on a red pen for corrections or guiding lines, adding clarity and structure to my sketches. Both pens are essential tools for my architectural work, offering precision and versatility in different aspects of the design process.
8) Tombow Mono Zero Erasers - Square + Round
This eraser is an excellent tool, capable of erasing both thick and thin lines with ease. It doesn’t leave behind any residue or get dirty, making it a clean and reliable addition to my pencil case. Its precision and durability make it ideal for architectural sketches, where accuracy is key and maintaining a tidy workspace is a priority.
This 6" architectural scale is an incredibly handy tool to have on hand. It’s important to note that architectural scales are not rulers—they are specifically designed for measuring, not drawing. Whether you’re sketching or need to measure something on a small-scale plan, this tool is very helpful. Its compact size makes it easy to carry around, and its precision ensures that measurements while sketching are accurate and reliable. It's a must-have for any architect's toolkit.
10) Portland Leather Company Pencil Pouch - Large Grain
This is one of my favorite pencil pouches. The high-quality leather, excellent craftsmanship, and durability make it the perfect case for storing all your drawing, sketching, and drafting tools. It not only offers a sleek, professional look but also provides the reliability needed to keep your tools organized and protected. A great blend of style and function for any architect on the go.
This is everything I keep in my everyday pencil case. These tools allow me to sketch, draw, and take notes wherever I am. Whether I'm traveling, on vacation, at school, or at work, I always have this case with me. While this is a minimal set, it includes high-quality tools that are built to last and support my architectural work wherever I go. (Let me know in the comments if you found this information helpful or share what tools you use daily.)
I’m planning to break this blog into a few parts. First, I’ll cover my personal minimalist set of tools that I use on a daily basis. Next, I’ll share a more comprehensive list of the tools I rely on for my architecture studio at school. Finally, I’ll dive into the tools and supplies I use for model making and where I source them from. Stay tuned for these in-depth posts, each offering a closer look at the tools that support my architectural journey and can help yours!