Isometric graph paper is still manufactured and sold in 2011, and has become an expensive specialty item.
I recall seeing engineering notebooks from decades ago that had isometric patterns, often facing a ruled or blank page. The tasks that require isometric graph paper (along with polar graph paper) long ago transitioned to computer software.
So, let me state that it was an immense surprise to see pads of a new isometric graph paper for sale at a brick and mortar stationer.
Alvin, who might be considered a traditional drafting and engineering supplier, claim isometric graph paper is “Ideal for mechanical drawing or design needs, especially machine design, architecture, and patent office drafting.”
Whitelines, the Swedish stationer known for using white ruling on grey backgrounds, are the creator of this new product, and state that “isometric graph paper helps you visualize ideas and draw in 3D for design, mathematical illustration and just sheer play.” It sounds like a slightly different market segment.
Shown with two of the most technical drawing leadholders I could find: a Caran d’Ache Fixpencil 22 with roughened grip (purchased at Phidon Pens) and a Rotring compass pencil.
I’d like to also see the Alvin paper – it is about the same price per sheet as the Whitelines paper.
The “sheer play” purpose seems just right!
I recall playing around with some isometric graph paper in a high school math class many years ago to draw all sorts of 3-dimensional geometric shapes. This Whitelines paper looks like it would be quite fun as well.
Heather, thanks for mentioning the math class usage. The paper is definitely fun!
I own the same CdA Fixpencil with roughened grip. It has a very good grip in my hand. But I never saw that Rotring pencil before. Can you tell me how old this pencil is. Or is it still being made?
Huib, I think it is no longer made. Some more information is here.
Thanks for that link. I have visited Leadholder.com before but didn’t see this one.
On Leadholder.com you can also see that the roughened grip on the CdA Fixpencils is not new but was also present on older models like the Fixpencil 77. So it is a true classic.
I have a Fixpencil 77, it’s 20 years old, still in use and never had a better tool for drawing.
My grandson needs this graph paper for high school math class we live in Blue Springs MO where can I buy it