11 Best Drafting Boards To Unleash Your Creativity In 2023
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Do you enjoy spending your free time drafting or drawing? If so, you may need a drafting board. Drafting boards are tools artists and hobbyists use to create precise drawings and sketches.
There are a variety of different drafting boards on the market, but not all of them are created equal. This blog post will discuss the best drafting boards for professional artists and hobbyists alike!
Our Top Picks
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Best Overall: US Art Supply Extra Large Drawing Board Runner-Up: Kinbelle A3 Multifunctional Drafting Table Best Professional Grade: ALVIN PXB31 Portable Drafting Board Best Portable: Koh-I-Noor Portable Studio Drawing Board Best for Budding Artists: Martin Universal Design Pro-Draft Drawing Board Best for Students: Pacific Arc Table Top Drawing Board Best for Engineers: Staedtler A3 Drafting Board Best for Interior Designers: Rotring A2 Designer Drawing Board Best Set: Frylr Metric A3 Drafting Board Most Elegant: MEEDEN Wood Drafting Table Best Ergonomic: SD Studio Designs Drawing & Drafting Table |
1. Best Overall: US Art Supply Extra Large Drawing Board
Why We Think It’s Great
- ADJUSTABLE ANGLE: Modify the drafting board’s angle from flat to 80 degrees.
- WIDE WORKING SPACE: Comfortably work on its large surface.
- HOLDING LEDGE: Organize your pencils and T-square perfectly.
- CONVERTIBLE: Use it as a tabletop drafting table.
- FOLDABLE: Allows you to bring it to any location conveniently.
What We Don’t Like
- The desktop isn't very smooth for pencil shading.
- The included T-square is too long.
What Our Editors Say
“We love this drafting board because of its sturdy and durable construction. The wood material is sturdy and the surface is level, making it a great choice for artists who need a large work surface.
This board strikes a great balance of size, portability, and durability. It is the perfect dimensions if you’re working on 11x14 drawings and allows an easy elevation of the work area.”
Manufactured: China | Top Material: Wood | Working Area: 26” x 21” | Weight: 7 lbs
2. Runner-Up: Kinbelle A3 Multifunctional Drafting Table
Why We Think It’s Great
- LOCKABLE POSITION: This allows you to secure it in any position to prevent instability.
- INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: Comes with a 12 cm rotating ruler and triangle.
- ANTI-SLIP LEGS: Rest assured that this drafting board won't slip while in use.
- LIGHTWEIGHT: Carry it anywhere you like.
What We Dont Like
- It is not suitable for large drafting sheets.
- The triangle included is not flippable.
What Our Editors Say
“We like this drafting board because it is made of high-quality plastic with a smooth surface that is easy to clean, so you won't have to worry about ink smudging or paper tearing.
Its lightweight and durable features also make it easier to transport. And best of all, it comes with a set of clips to help keep the paper in place while working.”
Manufactured: China | Top Material: Plastic | Working Area: 11.7” x 16.5” | Weight: 3 lbs
3. Best Professional Grade: ALVIN PXB31 Portable Drafting Board
Why We Think It’s Great
- MELAMINE TOP SURFACE: Extremely smooth and durable, ideal for use with pencils, pens, and other drawing tools.
- EXCELLENT STABILITY: Foldable metal legs ensure the drafting board won't collapse while in use.
- BRAKE MECHANISM AND RUBBER GRIPS: Secure its position to prevent sliding.
- COMFORTABLE: Easily adjust it with the help of top-mounted knobs.
- USER FRIENDLY: It doesn't require assembly.
What We Don’t Like
- You cannot adjust it to a higher position.
- Pricier than other similar products.
What Buyers Say
“I spent many years working on a similar board and wanted one for use at home. This is a nice board for that purpose. I like having the carrying handle for moving the board from table to table.
I've read the reviews about the slide not staying parallel. If you read the instructions that come with the board, it is clear as to what needs to be tightened to keep the slide aligned properly.”
Manufactured: USA | Top Material: Plastic | Working Area: 31” x 23” | Weight: 15 lbs
4. Most Portable: Koh-I-Noor Portable Studio Drawing Board
Why We Think It’s Great
- CARRYING CASE: It comes with a vinyl case to protect the board and your artwork.
- MODIFIABLE: Elevate the drawing surface from 7” to 15”.
- REVERSIBLE FEET: Perfectly secure your architectural drawings.
- LOCKABLE: Prevent your drafting sheet from falling.
- LIGHTWEIGHT: Bring it to any location with ease.
What We Don’t Like
- The board is a little flimsy.
- Not suitable for left-handed individuals.
What Our Editors Say
“This lightweight and portable drawing board is easy to transport from one workspace to another. We appreciate that it's lockable at any angle, so you'll always find the perfect position for your needs. The elevated drawing surface makes it workable, whether in a standing or sitting position.”
Manufactured: Czech Republic | Top Material: Plastic | Working Area: 14.7” x 19.5” | Weight: 3.45 lbs
5. Best for Budding Artists: Martin Universal Design Pro-Draft Drawing Board
Why We Think It’s Great
- FIVE POSITIONS: Its adjustable stand makes you work at a 10 to 45-degree angle.
- DURABLE TOP: Sturdy and won’t warp or bend over time, even with extended use.
- LARGE KNOBS: Easily align the straightedge with your drawing.
- RUBBER FEET: Allow you to do drafting with stability.
- TRANSPORTABLE: Equipped with a comfortable grip handle for easy carry.
What We Don't Like
- The board’s corners are sharp.
- The plastic legs are a bit flimsy.
What Our Editors Say
“What we like most about this drafting board is the five-position adjustable stand that caters to your art needs. We also appreciate the aluminum body that provides strength and stability.
On the side of the unit are large knobs for adjusting the straight edge, so it's always aligned with your drawing or sketches. Moreover, the drafting board has a comfortable easy-to-grip handle making transport a breeze.”
Manufactured: China | Top Material: Plastic | Working Area: 20" x 26" | Weight: 9.5 lbs
6. Best for Students: Pacific Arc Table Top Drawing Board
Why We Think It’s Great
- FOLDABLE: Take this drafting board anywhere with ease.
- STURDY: Reinforced with metal legs to ensure it won't collapse when in use.
- VERSATILE: You can use it for elevated and flat positions.
- RUBBER GRIPS: Enables the board to hang over the edge of a table.
- EASY TO ASSEMBLE: You can put it together with no tools needed.
What We Don't Like
- Needs a Vyco vinyl covering when using a compass.
- No measurements in the parallel bar.
What Buyers Say
“This drawing board far exceeded my expectations. I am using this for diamond painting. The rubber grips are perfect for adjusting the table to allow easy access to the area I am working, flexibility that not all drawing/drafting boards offer. Sturdy does not begin to describe this product.”
Manufactured: China | Top Material: Plastic | Working Area: 24” x 36” | Weight: 12 lbs
7. Best for Engineers: Staedtler A3 Drafting Board
Why We Think It’s Great
- LOCK INDICATOR: Let you see if the drafting table is locked or unlocked.
- EXCELLENT STABILITY: Comes with mechanical clamping for securing your drafting sheets.
- STURDY: It is made of break-resistant plastic with non-slip rubber feet.
- EASY TO CARRY AROUND: This drafting board only weighs 2 pounds.
What We Don’t Like
- It doesn’t secure paper smaller than A3.
- The scales are in millimeters.
What Our Editors Say
“We like the Staedtler A3 drafting board because its lock/unlock indicator lets you know at a glance whether the board is securely in place. It is especially helpful when working on larger drawings that need to be kept level.
The drafting board also has clamping strips that you can use to attach paper, which is great for keeping your work area neat. We also appreciate the product’s portability, allowing you to move it from one location to another.”
Manufactured: Germany | Top Material: Plastic | Working Area: 11.7” x 16.5” | Weight: 2.2 lbs
8. Best for Interior Designers: Rotring A2 Designer Drawing Board
Why We Think Its Great
- LARGE WORK AREA: Plenty of space for your projects.
- ADJUSTABLE ANGLE: Tilt the drafting board to suit your work needs.
- NON-WARPING MATERIALS: Prevent the deformation of the drawing board and keep the flatness.
- MEASURING GUIDES: Allow you to work with accuracy.
- LOCKING OPTIONS: Two magnetic clamps secure the paper’s position.
What We Don’t Like
- Straight edge mechanism is a bit flimsy.
- The optional bag is of low quality.
What Buyers Say
“Perfect and very easy to use. The rulers are perfect, so very comfortable, and the results are great. I’m an interior design student, and it’s a huge improvement to sketch and draw with this board.”
Manufactured: Japan | Top Material: Plastic | Working Area: 16.5” x 23.3” | Weight: 19.40 lbs
9. Best Set: Frylr Metric A3 Drafting Board
Why We Think It’s Great
- EXCELLENT ACCESSORIES: Comes with a T square, triangle, and drawing pencil with lead cores, so you dont have to buy them separately.
- PAPER CLIPS AND SCALE CLAMP: Firmly grasps the paper so that you can concentrate on your work.
- SUITABLE FOR ALL SKILL LEVELS: Ideal for engineers, designers, and students.
- ANTI-SLIP LEGS: Allow you to have a comfortable drawing angle.
What We Don’t Like
- The board slightly bends when leaning on it.
- It cannot be adjusted to higher positions.
What Buyers Say
“Having used professional-grade drafting tables before, I was familiar with the functionality but didn't want to pay a fortune for one. This little table is good value for money. Overall for the price, I am very pleased, as is my daughter who has taken a shine to it already!”
Manufactured: USA | Top Material: Plastic | Working Area: 11.7” x 16.5” | Weight: 2.70 lbs
10. Most Elegant: MEEDEN Wood Drafting Table
Why We Think Its Great
- VINTAGE STYLE: Classic design with an elegant walnut color that brings a touch of charm to any room.
- ADAPTABLE HEIGHT: Six different settings to adjust the working surface to your needs, from flat to 65 degrees.
- STRONG SUPPORT: This drafting board has thick legs with high-load bearing to ensure stability.
- MULTIPURPOSE: Perfect for various applications, such as writing, reading, drawing, and artwork.
- EASY TO ASSEMBLE: Set up this board yourself without breaking a sweat.
What We Don't Like
- It is not suitable for standing positions.
- Changing the angle of the drafting desk is tricky.
What Our Editors Say
“We love this wood drafting table because it looks beautiful and adds a touch of sophistication to any home or office decor. The six settings for adjusting the height of the desk are also impressive.
You can tilt this drafting table to different angles to accommodate your work needs. Plus, you can use it as a craft table or even a computer desk.”
Manufactured: China | Top Material: Wood | Working Area: 35” x 24” | Weight: 28 lbs
11. Best Ergonomic: SD Studio Designs Drawing & Drafting Table
Why We Think It’s Great
- FLEXIBLE ANGLE: Tilt the drafting board’s angle from flat up to 70 degrees.
- ADDED STORAGE: Comes with slide-out drawers, a pencil ledge, and removable side trays for organizing your drafting tools.
- STURDY FRAME: Made of heavy-duty steel for long service life.
- WIDE WORKING SPACE: Comfortably work with oversized drafting sheets and large projects.
- EASY TO TRANSPORT: Equipped with wheels so you can move it easily.
What We Don't Like
- Some parts are not labeled correctly in the manual.
- There is no rubber mat for the glass surface.
What Buyers Say
“I would recommend this table to anyone who has multiple hobbies. As a drawing table, I find it is wonderful. The small 'pencil catcher' at the front and the storage bins at the side are very useful. The drawers are small but handy for things like magnifying glasses, boxes of pens or pencils, and scissors.”
Manufactured: Taiwan | Top Material: Glass | Working Area: 35” x 24” | Item Weight: 46 lbs
Final Verdict
Whether you're looking for an affordable option or something more high-end, we've got you covered. All the drafting tables on our list are high-quality products that will allow you to create beautiful drawings and sketches.
We highly recommend the US Art Supply Extra Large Drawing Board because of its sturdy wood material and affordable price tag. This drafting board also features six adjustable settings ideal for use in various applications, including desks, tables, and countertops which you can’t find on other brands.
Best Drafting Boards Buying Guide
Buying a drafting board can be daunting, especially when many options are available on the market. That’s why it’s important to understand the different features of a good drafting board, so you can easily narrow down your choices and find the best one to suit your needs.
Size
If you frequently work on large drawings or blueprints, you'll need a drafting board that accommodates those size requirements. On the other hand, a smaller drafting board will be sufficient if you have a cramped workspace or typically work on smaller projects.
Remember that some drafting boards are adjustable so that you can choose the right size for your needs.
Adjustability
An adjustable drafting table will allow you to customize it to fit your needs. You should be able to set it at the most comfortable angle for your work, and it should be sturdy enough to support various art materials such as pencils, pens, rulers, and paper.
Material
Drafting tables are made from various materials, such as wood, metal, or glass. Each has advantages and disadvantages, so choosing the one that best suits your needs is important.
Wood drafting boards are a popular choice because they're durable and offer a smooth surface for drawing. However, they can be more expensive than other options.
Plastic drafting boards are a great budget-friendly choice, but they may not be as sturdy as wood drawing boards.
Metal drafting boards are usually very lightweight and portable, making them easy to take with you on the go. However, they can be more difficult to find in stores.
Cost
Depending on the size and features, drafting boards can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. It's important to remember that a drafting board is a long-term investment, and purchasing a high-quality product that will last for years is the best way to save money.
Ease of Use
Here are a few things to keep in mind when assessing user-friendliness:
- Consider how easy it is to set up and take down the drafting table. It will be challenging to use if it's too heavy or unwieldy.
- Take a look at the adjustable legs. They should be easily adjusted to get the drafting table into the right position.
- Evaluate the surface of the drafting board itself. It should be smooth and flat, with enough space to work comfortably.
Weight
A drafting board that's too light may be unstable and wobble as you work, making it difficult to produce precise lines. On the other hand, a drafting board that's too heavy can be a beast to move around, and it may not fit in your car if you need to transport it to a different location.
The best drafting tables balance these two factors, offering enough weight to provide stability while remaining portable.
Drafting Board FAQ
What is the best way to transport a drafting board?
First, you should find a drafting board that is lightweight and easy to carry. Next, ensure the board is securely fastened to avoid moving around during transport.
How do I know if a drafting board is stable?
Pushing a drafting board from various angles is a good test of stability. When you apply pressure, the best drafting boards should not wobble or move. However, the sturdiness and stability of a drafting table are also affected by how it is assembled. So when putting one together, make sure to tighten the screws.
What are the best materials for a drafting board?
The best materials for a drafting board are strong and long-lasting. Aluminum and stainless steel are excellent choices because they will not warp or bend over time. However, some prefer wood because it is more solid than other materials.
What is the best size for a drafting board?
The best size for a drafting board depends on your needs and preferences. You will need a larger board if you plan to use it for large projects. Conversely, you can get away with a smaller board if you often work on smaller projects.
What are the best features of a drafting board?
Many drafting boards are equipped with a ruler and T square, which is a great addition. However, it is not enough to make them the best as this also depends on your needs.
Some prefer boards with adjustable legs, while others prefer one with built-in storage. Ultimately, the best board for you is the one that has the features you want.
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