PDF download Download Article PDF download Download Article

Need to draw a perfect circle, but don't have anything to trace? You can create a circle with a compass or even just with a pencil and eraser.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Compass

PDF download Download Article
  1. You can buy one at office supply or drafting supply stores.
  2. Advertisement
  3. For a bigger circle, spread the compass wider.
  4. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Pencil Tip

PDF download Download Article
  1. Place the paper on a flat, clean surface. The easier the surface is to move the paper on, the better, such as a well-polished table. Also, be sure to have plenty of space to be able to move the paper on the work surface.
  2. Press down on the point where the exposed wood on the pencil meets the painted part.
  3. While your index finger is holding the edge of the pencil described in Step 3, rotate the paper beneath the pencil with your free hand.
  4. You have now completed your circle.
  5. Advertisement
Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Square

PDF download Download Article
  1. Start from one end of a bisecting line and take the half circle shape up to the next bisecting line, with the rounded edge sitting against the edge of the large outer square.
  2. Leave behind the circle.
  3. Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    How can I draw a small circle?
    CyanCoding
    Community Answer
    You can create a small circle with a compass by shortening the length between the point and the pencil. If you would like to draw the circle alone on paper, move the paper less when turning it. Similarly, with the square, you can make a smaller square to make a smaller circle.
  • Question
    What if the paper moves the wrong way when I'm rotating it?
    Community Answer
    Don't worry, mistakes help you improve! Just start over or erase your mistake.
  • Question
    I tried it and my pencil wouldn't move, why didn't it work?
    Community Answer
    You may be pushing down too hard. Make sure your pencil is fairly sharp too.
Ask a Question
      Advertisement

      Video

      Tips

      Show More Tips
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      Things You'll Need

      • Paper
      • Pencil
      • Clean and flat work surface
      • Drafting compass (optional)

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 145,143 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Anonymous

        Mar 1, 2017

        "It helped me, and now I can finish my project."
      Share your story

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement