drafting

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Hello, we homeschool our three boys and our oldest one wants to learn drafting. I have not been able to find out what mat courses he needs to take to do this course. I am hoping one of you wonderful homesteaders out there might be able to help us. Thanks in advance for you time and help. Michelle

-- michelle (tsjheath@ainop.com), December 08, 2000

Answers

As part of my job I'm required to do some drafting from time to time. The math required: coordinates {X,Y,Z} for 3D drawings, be able to measure, and rarely some Cos,Sin,Tan for angles. I find the biggest skill needed is computer know how.

I would start simple. Have him draft the floor plan of his room then your house because it is only 2D. He might even redesign how the furniture should go in his room. He can do this on a piece of graph paper or use a blank sheet with a ruler. He can learn to scale drawings that way at very litle cost.

Then move up to 3D drawings of a birdhouse, rabbit hutch. Be sure to have him build it as well. Remember: Measure twice cut once.

Then if he is still into it you can buy him a CAD program, which can be very intimidating (even for grown-ups)! But if he still loves it he will figure it out over time.

-- Storybook Farm (mumaw@socket.com), December 08, 2000.


My 17 year old daughter does lots of drafting at school, but the math she had prior to drafting was geometry. She had not yet had algebra. Both the drafting and geometry, as well as music, "fit" the way her mind works.

-- Teresa in TN (otgonz@bellsouth.net), December 08, 2000.

Hey, thanks to all who gave us help on the drafting question. I know I wil have no problems in getting a geomitry book. I did not know junior high offered drafting, but figure he needs to start at the begining. Once again, thanks!!!! michelle

-- michelle (tsjheath@ainop.com), December 09, 2000.

Check out www.timberdoodle.com for some neat pre-drafting & drafting skills resources. Neat stuff!

-- Jean (schiszik@tbcnet.com), December 12, 2000.

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