Hammer's Blueprint Reading Basics

Blueprints, or “prints,” show what is needed to make parts. They include details such as size, shape, and acceptable variations. They also tell you the material, finish, special assembly and processing instructions, and inspection requirements. Blueprints come from engineering departments and provide all the necessary information to all those involved in making the part. They turn ideas into products, and help communicate between customers, sales, engineers, drafters, purchasers, machinists...