How to Scale a Drawing: 12 Steps
1. Determine the scale ratio: First, determine the desired scale for your drawing. The scale ratio is the proportion of the real-world object to your drawing. For example, if you want a 1:10 scale, that means 1 inch on your drawing will represent 10 inches in reality.
2. Measure the original drawing: Use a ruler or measuring tape to measure the dimensions of your original drawing. Record these measurements as you’ll be using them later to calculate the scaled dimensions.
3. Calculate new dimensions: Multiply each dimension from your original drawing by the scale ratio to get the new dimensions for your scaled drawing. For example, if your original drawing is 8 inches by 11 inches and you are scaling it down to a 1:10 scale, your new dimensions would be 0.8 inches by 1.1 inches.
4. Set up your workspace: Set up a clean and well-lit workspace with all necessary materials such as paper, pencils, erasers, and rulers.
5. Create a grid system: Divide both your original and new drawings into an equal number of squares using a pencil and ruler. This will help you accurately reproduce each section at the correct scale.
7. Label grids: Assign numbers and letters to each row and column of both grids for easy reference when transferring details between them.
8. Sketch main shapes: Begin by sketching out the main shapes of your scaled drawing on the grid using light pencil strokes.
9. Transfer details: Work square by square, carefully transferring details from each section of the original drawing onto its corresponding section on the scaled grid based on their coordinates (e.g., A-1, B-2). Be sure to maintain proportions according to your chosen scale ratio.
10. Refine and adjust lines: Use an eraser to clean up any stray marks or uneven lines in your scaled drawing. Adjust the lines if necessary so they are accurately proportional.
11. Add shading and textures: Once you are satisfied with the main shapes and proportions, add shading and textures to your scaled drawing to create depth and dimension.
12. Review your work: Take a step back and review your scaled drawing. Make any final adjustments or refinements to ensure it is an accurate representation of the original.
13. Sign and date: Once you are satisfied with your completed scaled drawing, sign and date it in a lower corner to finalize your work. You now have a successfully scaled drawing following these 12 steps!