Hey Jesta,
As an Architect you will always have the need for a drawing board, whether you present or build in CAD or not. I personally design & create my thought processes on the board, and for finals transfer toPC for some photoshop works/cad progressions where necessary.
This isn't a 'hand vs cad' debate but I can assure you finding the balance between the two is the key to getting the best portayal of your ideas.
The A0 boards in the practice I work are invaluable imo & if you are considering purchasing one, do not be tempted by a cheap(er) one: the parallel motions on the cheaper boards often warp & the belts are poorly manufactured.
Try to have a first-hand look at the model you are considering purchasing to check the motions and how they feel to you; all my colleagues and I have our preferences.
As for making one yourself, I can't see it working all too well. Yet purchasing a decent board and building your own
stand is a perfectly viable option that will save a lot of money.
I would strongly reccommend checking out the local papers/ uni boards for people who are selling their old ones- in general, boards are build pretty 'solidly' and you can find a1/a0 boards second hand for around £100.
What University are you at Jesta?
oh and Borich... yes we don't take kindly to your type around our studios/practices
