2D and 3D drawing.

2D and 3D drawing

Designers choose drawing methods according to the information that must be communicated and the intended audience.

2D drawing

Orthographic projection communicates accurate manufacturing information through separate front, plan and side views. Third-angle projection is a standard convention used to position these views. Sectional drawings reveal internal features that would otherwise be hidden.

2D CAD is widely used for working drawings because dimensions, geometry, line types and tolerances can be edited accurately.

3D drawing

• Isometric drawing uses axes at 30° to the horizontal and is useful for clear 3D technical sketches.
• One-point perspective gives a realistic view where receding lines converge towards one vanishing point.
• Two-point perspective uses two vanishing points and is useful for showing products or spaces from an angled viewpoint.
• Oblique/crating techniques can help construct proportioned 3D forms quickly during idea development.

Rendering and mixed media

Rendering communicates material and surface qualities using colour, texture, highlights, shadows and grain. Marker rendering, coloured pencils, digital media and mixed-media drawings can all be used depending on the speed and realism required.

Choosing the communication method

A client presentation may prioritise realistic form, colour and finish, while a manufacturer needs dimensions, tolerances, materials and construction details. The most effective drawing is therefore the one that communicates the required information clearly, rather than the most visually impressive one.