[TheForge] layout tools

[Justin Fellenz]

Got sucked in again. All that Chian stuff does seem relevant to
blacksmithing if only in the sense of sitting around chatting over
beers...which is a good way to look at it, IMO. I like that feel on
this list.

Anyway.

This is really about blacksmithing. In the article about that very cool
railing (really great work...) in last Anvil's Ring were reproductions
of the drawings. I am not much with a pen, more sketches than
anything...I usually have a very clear idea in my mind of what I want
to make and often do architectural drawings of the place the piece will
go with important measurements so everything fits, but as often as not
the project develops at least a little as it goes along. The very few
commissions I've gotten have been ok with this, but I'm sure if I ever
get the big one or do corporate work they'll want to know more or less
exactly what they're getting.

So the questions are these: do most or all of you do detailed drawings
beforehand? Are these for the customer, or do they help you in the
process of the work? And how many of you use cad software to do them?
Is cad worth the effort and expense, or is it just cool toys?

Thanks,

JRF