Study a variety of pictures that feature the K truss configuration. Notice how each of the vertical beams is separated into two sections, increasing the ability to resist compression under a buckle. Whether your pictured models are constructed of wood or steel, this elaborate truss setup provides maximum support for whatever its use may be.
Measure the area in which this K truss structure will be featured. If you are designing this specific truss outline as a roof for a house, measure the height and width for this section. Likewise, measure the distance between two points if this K truss design is for constructing a bridge. The length and height help determine how great the angle of beams between each vertical section is, therefore this greatly affects the compression ratio of this erection.
Sketch out a basic outline for your K truss design. You may feature as mean vertical beams as you want, but the number of these K-like formations must be even on both sides. The angled beams on each side of the center, vertical beams form a K. If your design features three regularly shaped Ks on one side of the vertical beams, the opposite side needs to feature three reversed Ks. You may want to use straight lines to create a broad sketch of this design, but leave plenty of room to thicken each of the angled and vertical beams.
Use your industrial ruler to clean up the appearance of your K truss design. The sketch helped you create a rough draft of your design, but the industrial ruler will help you mathematically create a proportional configuration. Each of the angled beams must all be the same length, as they connect the top or bottom of your structure to the middle section in the same fashion. Additionally, each of the vertical beams should be created with the same height in mind. There are essentially two beams stacked on top of one other per vertical slot, therefore each one should be proportionally depicted in your design.
Compare your finished design with the pictures you used as references. Make sure this K truss depiction mimics the real-life images. Your design does not have to accurately portray any of these pictures, but you may use them as helpful guidelines for your newly-drawn structure.