Hi, I am Doug Patt and this is how to architect. Today, I want to talk about how to make curves. They are everywhere and there are few ways to draw them. The first is using templates pretty common and pretty straight forward. I had got a bunch. I use this circle template all the time. I also use this small oval template. I have also got two larger oval templates.

What you have got really depends on your needs and what shapes appeal to you. A few tips on using them. First, a no-brainier, push down on the template firmly when drawing and careful when picking the template back up not to smear the pencil or pen. Second, if the template does not come with the race backing that holds it up off the drawing surface, use a little built up tape under the template if you are drawing in ink. The ink will not smear if you move the template by accident.

Third, do not use permanent markers with your templates. You will instantly wreck the interior of the template or make it harder to work with because the ink makes it filthy and sometimes rubs off, and finally, never cut against the interior of the template. It is plastic so you will either cut into it, cut yourself or wreck the template for every circle you try draw in that part for the rest of eternity.

Next I used French curves; these are hard plastic curves that you could typically find the right curves to suit your needs. My set came with three of varying degrees of curvature. You can also use flexible curves. I used to have one but I got fed up with the thing not staying in position so I chucked it. I also used this totally bad ass spring loaded aque arc for large radiuses. You can also cut down trees with it.

Now for circles you can also use a simple compass, I have gotten three. I use this one because it is very sturdy and it holds its position nicely and if you are repeating the same size circle over and over again, that is a must! It’s got a very pointy end on one side so keeps its position and a lead that I can replace and sharpen on the other.

Finally, for really big circles I use this Mondo compass. It is made of copper parts so you could adjust the size of circle you are making. But essentially it makes very large circles so if you are just getting started and planning to do a lot of drawing, I highly recommend a good compass and a couple of templates to start, maybe a circle and a small oval. Happy drawing!