Starting a design course can be an exciting and challenging journey. Whether you’re heading into architecture, product design, illustration or another creative discipline, building a strong foundation begins with having the right tools. Two essentials for any aspiring designer are a dependable drawing board and a reliable light box—tools that help you bring ideas to life with precision and confidence.
Drawing boards are more than just a flat surface—they’re your workspace for turning thoughts into visual form. A stable, adjustable board helps you stay focused, reduces fatigue during long sessions, and provides the right environment for fine details and measured lines. From sketching and rendering to drafting precise technical work, a good board is a must-have from day one.
Orchard offers a range of high-quality drawing boards to support students at every level:
All our boards are delivered fully assembled and ready to use—no fiddly setup required. Whether you’re working at a desk or a dedicated design studio, there’s an Orchard model to fit your needs.
Light boxes are indispensable for many types of design work—particularly where tracing, transparency, or visual clarity is important. From reviewing overlays and adjusting layouts to checking negatives or fine illustrations, an evenly lit surface gives you the detail and consistency you need for confident progress.
Our BEAM range of light boxes is built to professional standards and trusted by designers, artists and quality control teams alike:
Whether you’re working on A3 sketches or full-scale plans, our light boxes provide uniform illumination and durable construction for daily use.
Beginning your course with professional-quality tools sets the tone for your entire design journey. Orchard drawing boards and light boxes are made in the UK with a focus on durability, accuracy, and ease of use. They arrive fully assembled and carefully packaged, so you can start creating from day one. If you’re unsure which option is right for your course or space, our team is always happy to advise.