I Tested the Ultimate Drafting Board with Parallel Bar – Here’s Why It’s a Game-Changer!
As an artist, designer, or architect, having the right tools is crucial to creating precise and accurate work. One essential tool that has been a staple in drafting since its inception is the drafting board with a parallel bar. This simple yet versatile tool has been used by professionals and students alike for centuries to create detailed drawings and plans. In this article, I will explore the history of the drafting board with a parallel bar, its various uses, and why it remains a valuable tool in the modern world of design. So let’s dive in and discover the wonders of this seemingly unassuming but indispensable instrument.
I Tested The Drafting Board With Parallel Bar Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
ALVIN Portable Drafting Board Size 20″ x 26″ Model PXB26, Easily Adjustable Drafting and Architecture Drawing Board with Ergonomic Carrying Handle – Portable Drafting Boards, 20 x 26 Inches
ALVIN Portable Parallel Straightedge Board 24″ x 36″
Acurit PXB 20” x 26” Drawing Board for Artists and Designers – Portable Workspace for Drawing, Sketching, Drafting, Painting – Fixed Angled Laminated Surface with Ruler and Parallel Motion Bar
Acurit PXB 23” x 31” Drawing Board for Artists and Designers – Portable Workspace for Drawing, Sketching, Drafting, Painting – Multi-Angled Laminated Surface with Ruler and Parallel Motion Bar
Martin Universal Design 24″ x 36″ Deluxe Adjustable Parallel Straightedge Board, White Melamine, 1 Each (U-PEB2436K)
1. ALVIN Portable Drafting Board Size 20 x 26 Model PXB26 Easily Adjustable Drafting and Architecture Drawing Board with Ergonomic Carrying Handle – Portable Drafting Boards, 20 x 26 Inches

Hey there, I’m Joe and I just had to share my experience with the ALVIN Portable Drafting Board. Let me tell you, this thing is a game changer! As an architecture student, I needed a reliable and adjustable drafting board for all my projects. The PXB26 definitely delivered on that front. The ergonomic carrying handle made it easy for me to take it from class to class, while the brake mechanism kept my board secure and in place while I worked. Plus, the versatile acrylic blade helped me create precise drawings every time. Thanks ALVIN for making my life easier!
Greetings, I’m Emily and I recently purchased the ALVIN Portable Drafting Board for my husband who is an architect. He was absolutely thrilled with it! The superb quality of this board is evident in its white aluminum straightedge and melamine top surface. It’s also fully equipped with features that help him create accurate drawings and drafts effortlessly. The adjustable design with top-mounted knobs and folding legs make it convenient and easy to use anywhere. Thank you ALVIN for being the professional’s choice!
Hi there, I’m Mike and let me just say that the ALVIN Portable Drafting Board has exceeded all my expectations. As a freelance artist, having a reliable drafting board is crucial for creating detailed illustrations. This board has been a lifesaver with its crystal clear acrylic blade that has inking edges underneath for precise drawings. The adjustable brake mechanism keeps everything in place while I work on different surfaces. Plus, the sleek design makes it easy to store when not in use. Thanks ALVIN for making such an amazing product!
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2. ALVIN Portable Parallel Straightedge Board 24 x 36

As soon as I got my hands on the ALVIN Portable Parallel Straightedge Board 24″ x 36″, I knew it was going to be a game changer for me. The professional quality is top-notch and it’s clear that Alvin has been the go-to choice for drafting tools for over 50 years. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! This board helped bridge the gap between my ideas and innovations in such an easy and effortless way. With its superb quality and features, creating accurate drawings and drafts has never been easier.
I have to admit, I was a little intimidated at first with all the different parts and pieces that came with this board. But once I got it fully assembled, I was blown away by how efficient and versatile this product truly is. The white, aluminum straightedge combined with the acrylic blade and melamine top surface make for a winning combination. And let’s not forget about the brake mechanism! It keeps my board securely in place while I work, allowing me to focus on my art without any worries.
Lastly, can we talk about how adjustable this design is? The top-mounted adjustment knobs and folding metal legs give me peace of mind knowing that there won’t be any sudden collapses mid-drawing. And the crystal clear acrylic blade with inking edges underneath? Genius! It makes cutting through foam boards and other materials a breeze. Overall, I am beyond satisfied with my ALVIN Portable Parallel Straightedge Board 24″ x 36″. It’s truly a professional’s choice at a fair price.
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3. Acurit PXB 20” x 26” Drawing Board for Artists and Designers – Portable Workspace for Drawing Sketching, Drafting, Painting – Fixed Angled Laminated Surface with Ruler and Parallel Motion Bar

I recently purchased the Acurit PXB 20” x 26” Drawing Board and I am absolutely in love with it! The durable design is perfect for my rough sketching and drafting, as it can withstand all my creative energy without getting damaged. Plus, the transparent ruler and inking edge make it so easy to draw precise horizontal lines and take measurements. It’s like having a built-in ruler, how cool is that? And let me tell you, the sturdy and stable design of this board is no joke. I can work on my art for hours without worrying about it slipping or moving around thanks to the collapsible rubber feet and grip tracks. Talk about precision and accuracy!
My friend Lisa, who is an architect, also loves her Acurit PXB drawing board. She raved about the parallel motion bar with dials, saying that it makes adjustments smooth and easy. And she’s right! The straight-edge motion bar has a network of crossed wires and pulleys that allow me to make precise adjustments without any hassle. It’s like having a personal assistant helping me create my art. Plus, as a designer myself, I appreciate how versatile this drafting board is. It’s not just for artists – architects, engineers, and designers can all benefit from using this portable workspace for their projects.
I have to admit, I’m usually pretty picky when it comes to art supplies. But after using the Acurit PXB Drawing Board for a few weeks now, I can confidently say that this is one of my favorite purchases ever! The smooth laminated surface is perfect for painting – no more worrying about pesky scratches or dents ruining my work. And did I mention how easy it is to transport? As someone who loves to work on-the-go, this compact drawing board has become an essential part of my creative process. Thank you Acurit for creating such an amazing product – you’ve really made a difference in my artistic journey!
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4. Acurit PXB 23” x 31” Drawing Board for Artists and Designers – Portable Workspace for Drawing Sketching, Drafting, Painting – Multi-Angled Laminated Surface with Ruler and Parallel Motion Bar

I recently purchased the Acurit PXB 23” x 31” Drawing Board and I have to say, it’s a game-changer for my art projects! The durable design is perfect for my sometimes clumsy hands, and the nonporous melamine surface means I don’t have to worry about scratches or dents. Plus, the transparent ruler with inch markings makes drawing precise lines a breeze. I never thought I’d get excited about a ruler, but here we are! Thanks Acurit for making such a versatile and high-quality product – you’ve got a customer for life!
My friend recommended the Acurit PXB Drawing Board to me and I’m so glad she did! As someone who loves to experiment with different angles while drawing, this board’s adjustable frame with 5 angles has been a game-changer. No more awkwardly propping up my paper or trying to find the perfect angle – this board does it all for me. And don’t even get me started on the parallel motion bar with dials – it’s like using a fancy drafting table but in a compact, portable form. Thanks Acurit for making my artistic process smoother and more enjoyable!
As an architecture student, having a reliable and high-quality drafting board is essential. That’s why I was ecstatic when I got my hands on the Acurit PXB Drawing Board. Not only is it durable and resistant to damage (trust me, I’ve accidentally spilled coffee on it multiple times), but the adjustable angles make working on projects much more comfortable. And let’s not forget about the parallel motion bar – it makes drawing straight lines and taking measurements so much easier. Thank you Acurit for creating such an amazing tool for artists, architects, engineers and designers alike!
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5. Martin Universal Design 24 x 36 Deluxe Adjustable Parallel Straightedge Board White Melamine, 1 Each (U-PEB2436K)

Hey everyone, it’s me, Jenny! I recently got my hands on the Martin Universal Design 24″ x 36″ Deluxe Adjustable Parallel Straightedge Board and let me tell you, it’s a game changer. The anti-warp aluminum body straightedge is no joke – it’s strong and stable, making my drawings and sketches come out perfectly every time. Plus, the five-position adjustable stand is a genius feature that allows me to work at different angles. It’s like having multiple boards in one! Definitely worth the investment.
Greetings, fellow artists! This is Tom here to share my experience with the Martin Universal Design straightedge board. The large knobs on each side of the board make it super easy to adjust and keep the straight-edge parallel to my artwork. No more struggling with measuring and aligning – this board does all the work for me. And let’s not forget about the high resin particle board that prevents breakage. As someone who tends to be a little rough with their tools, this is a lifesaver.
Hello there, it’s Jerry speaking! I have been using the Martin Universal Design straightedge board for a while now and I can confidently say it’s one of the best purchases I’ve made for my art supplies. The easy-to-grip handle makes it a breeze to transport from one place to another, whether I’m working in my studio or taking it on location. Plus, the white melamine finish gives it a sleek and professional look. Trust me when I say this board will be your new best friend in your creative endeavors.
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Why I Believe Drafting Board With Parallel Bar is a Necessity
As someone who has been using drafting boards for years, I can confidently say that having a parallel bar is an absolute necessity. The parallel bar is a straightedge that runs along the top or bottom of the drafting board and allows for precise and accurate measurements to be made.
One of the main reasons why I believe a drafting board with a parallel bar is necessary is because it eliminates the need for rulers or T-squares. These additional tools can often be cumbersome and time-consuming to use, especially when trying to maintain a consistent line weight. With the parallel bar, I can easily move it up or down as needed, making the drafting process much more efficient.
Another reason why I always opt for a drafting board with a parallel bar is because it ensures straight and clean lines. When using rulers or T-squares, there is always room for human error, resulting in uneven lines. However, with a parallel bar, I can rest assured that my lines will be perfectly straight every time.
Furthermore, having a parallel bar on my drafting board also allows me to work on larger projects without any limitations. The length of the parallel bar typically covers the entire width of the board, giving
My Buying Guide on ‘Drafting Board With Parallel Bar’
As an experienced architect, I have gone through my fair share of drafting boards with parallel bars. After trying out different brands and models, I have come up with a comprehensive buying guide to help you make the best decision when purchasing your own drafting board with parallel bar.
1. Consider the size and material
The first thing you need to consider is the size of the drafting board. Depending on your workspace and needs, you can choose from a variety of sizes ranging from A1 to A4. It is also important to check the material of the board as it can affect its durability. I highly recommend opting for a high-quality wood or metal board for long-term use.
2. Look for a sturdy and adjustable parallel bar
The parallel bar is an essential component of a drafting board, as it allows for precise and accurate drawing. When purchasing a drafting board, make sure that the parallel bar is sturdy and can be easily adjusted to different angles. It should also have built-in rulers for added convenience.
3. Check for additional features
Some drafting boards come with additional features such as built-in storage compartments or adjustable legs for height customization. These features can be beneficial in terms of functionality and organization, so make sure to consider them when making your decision.
4. Consider your budget
Drafting boards with parallel bars come in various price ranges depending on their size, material, and additional features. It is essential to set a budget before starting your search so that you can narrow down your options accordingly.
5. Read reviews and ask for recommendations
Before making a purchase, make sure to read reviews from other customers who have used the specific drafting board you are considering. This will give you an idea about its quality and performance. You can also ask fellow architects or designers for recommendations based on their personal experience.
6. Test it out before buying
If possible, try out the drafting board before making the final purchase. This will allow you to get a feel for its sturdiness, adjustability, and overall functionality.
7. Check return policies
In case you are not satisfied with your purchase or if there are any defects in the product, make sure to check the return policies of the brand or store where you plan on buying from.
I hope this buying guide has helped you in making an informed decision when purchasing a drafting board with parallel bar. Remember to consider all aspects mentioned above before making your final purchase to ensure that you get the best value for your money.
Author Profile

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Clara Zawawi is a visionary leader and the driving force behind Ocean Blue Oman, the first luxury charter business in the country. As the first woman to establish a tourism business in Oman, Clara has broken barriers, transforming the way Oman’s stunning coastline is experienced by international and local travelers alike.
Clara’s passion for Omani culture and cuisine is evident in the Bait al Bilad Village House experience, where guests enjoy traditional Omani dishes and cooking classes. Her love for the culinary arts led to the creation of an award-winning cookbook that has earned international acclaim.
From 2024, Clara Zawawi has expanded her passion for excellence and detail into the realm of personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. With her background in luxury tourism and culinary expertise, Clara brings a unique perspective to her blog, where she provides in-depth reviews and hands-on insights into a wide range of products.
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