Line weights and text
How to layout a landscape plan
Line weights
Line weights are used to create hierarchy in drawings and give definition. Different line weights can be shorthand to help discern heights, importance, stacking order and depth.
Some Rules to follow (Some of the time)
Proximity - The closer something is to the viewer the thicker the line weight should be:
In Plan View - The taller something is the thicker the line weight
In Elevation View - The closer something is to the viewer the thicker the line weight.
Use variation - Single or too few line weights will create a drawing that is lifeless and flat. Multiple line weights will create hierarchy and make your plan easier to interpret
Detail - Line work within objects should be finer than the perimeter lines.
Consistency - If you use a line weight for a particular element continue with that for the remaining instances.
What is commonly included on a plan page?
Other common items
Specification notes
Construction details
Schedules
Audits
Most Pages
Legend
Title block
Plan
Annotations
Headings
Lettering
Lettering by hand is an artform. Usually we stick to uppercase only as it is easier to make legible. When on the computer I generally use a mix of lower and uppercase as it flows better. However, a lot of businesses have continued with uppercase only even after transitioning to drafting on the computer.
Some people no their limitations with the pen and will scan their drawings to then annotate on the computer. This could be a very sensible workflow as it is very easy to ruin a drawing with bad handwriting.
HAND LETTERING
Stick to uppercase
Standard Text - 3-4mm in height with 2mm spacing between lines
Headings - 5-6mm in height
Lines - Rule lines as guides in pencil and then erase them once complete