Had to pick between a 0.5mm and 0.7mm lead for a big set of architectural plans

I was working on a set of residential blueprints last month and my main mechanical pencil ran out. I had both a 0.5mm and a 0.7mm lead holder on my desk. I went with the 0.5mm for the finer detail lines, but after about three hours my hand was cramping up from the pressure. It gave a super clean line, but maybe the thicker lead would have been easier. Does anyone else switch up lead size based on how long they'll be drafting for?

3 comments

3 Comments

faithwalker1mo ago

Used to think thinner was always better for detail work. But after reading @parker_park8's point about hand strain, I get it now. Might grab a 0.7mm for my next long project.

susana661mo ago

Try a 2B lead in that 0.7mm, it glides with almost no pressure.

parker_park81mo ago

Ever try a 0.9mm lead? I keep one loaded for the long sessions. It needs way less pressure to get a dark line, so my hand doesn't get tired. The line is a bit thicker, but for most general drafting it works fine. Switching to a softer lead grade in the thicker size helps a lot too.