Folding Architectural Plans: A Step-by-Step Guide
Properly folding architectural plans is crucial for organization, storage, and presentation. Follow these detailed steps to ensure your drawings remain intact and easily accessible.
Understanding Standard Sizes for Architectural Drawings
Architectural drawings typically come in a range of standard sizes. Familiarize yourself with common dimensions such as 24”x36” or 30”x42” to help you understand how to fold them properly. Recognizing the dimensions helps determine the folding method that will keep the drawings neat and safe.
Method for Folding 30”x42” Blueprints
- Prepare the Drawing: Lay the blueprint flat on a clean, stable surface, ensuring it is free of dust or debris.
- Initial Fold: Fold the drawing in half lengthwise, aligning the edges carefully. Crease the fold firmly to create a sharp edge.
- Corner Folds: Take the top two corners of the folded drawing and bring them inward to meet at the center crease, forming a triangular flap at the top.
- Repeat on the Other Side: Turn the drawing over and repeat the corner folding process to maintain symmetry.
- Final Fold: Fold the drawing in half again to reduce its size for easier handling or storage.
- Adjustments: If necessary, rotate the drawing and make additional folds to fit within standard storage sizes, ensuring the title block remains visible.
Folding ANSI D Size Drawings
- Initial Half Fold: Begin by folding the paper in half across the width, keeping the drawing side facing out.
- Continued Folding: Continue folding until the final dimensions are approximately 8.5 inches by 11 inches.
- Stacking Options: When stacking multiple folded ANSI D drawings, ensure the title blocks are facing up for easy identification.
Folding 11×17 Drawings
To fold an 11×17 drawing effectively, start by aligning the edges. Make a clean crease in the middle, then fold each half towards the center until the drawing is compact. Be sure to keep the title and essential details visible for future reference.
Folding A2 Size Drawings
For an A2 size drawing, which measures 610 × 430 mm, begin by folding a small section (around 15 mm) of the right edge. Next, fold the drawing in a standard manner as you would with a typical A2 sheet. This adjustment accommodates slightly larger dimensions while keeping key information accessible.
Handling Multiple Drawings
When folding multiple sheets of paper simultaneously, stack them neatly and align the edges. Use a large flat surface to make uniform folds across all sheets, ensuring that each drawing maintains the integrity of its details and is easily identifiable.
Why is Folding Important?
Folding architectural drawings is essential for several reasons. Properly folded plans provide quick access to information without having to unroll entire sheets. This method also facilitates efficient filing and minimizes the risk of damage, ensuring that your drawings remain in pristine condition.
How to Securely Staple Blueprints
To staple blueprints together, choose a staple strip that suits the size of your sheets. First, fold back the top flap at the crease. Place the blueprints beneath this flap and use a heavy-duty stapler to secure them in place. This technique helps to keep everything organized for easy handling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to store folded architectural plans?
Store folded architectural plans in a flat file drawer or portfolio to maintain their shape and prevent damage from bending or tearing.
Can I fold my architectural plans if they are laminated?
No, laminated architectural plans should not be folded as this can damage the laminate and distort the drawing. Instead, consider using tubes for storage.
What tools do I need for folding architectural plans?
A clean, flat surface is usually sufficient. However, a bone folder can help create sharper creases if you want a more professional finish.
