Design Software

[redjalopygarage]

Looking to see what design software you guys use. I know there is the microsoft one, but I was thinking a little more ********. Google Sketchup, Solidworks, AutoCAD, Smartdraw? Any "freebies"? would be great....

John

 

[Moz]

SketchUp is very easy to use, quite powerful and free for non professional use. The only thing it's missing is lighting, for now.
I used it to plan our quite major reno and it worked brilliantly.

 

[onewaydave]

I have a nephew that is an architect and he uses google for all the family projects.

 

[TONE]

This one is kinda fun for floorplans........

http://www.fbibuildings.com/Pages/FBiPlanner.html

 

[MotoDave]

If you're looking to lay out a garage or house, I'd give SketchUp a shot. If you're looking to design parts, its not very well suited for that in my opinion. I use SolidWorks, but that's not too accessible for most people.

 

[pseudorealityx]

I use AutoCAD every day at work. I did some work with Solidworks back in school. I haven't used Sketch-Up, but it looks neat. I just haven't had the need to learn yet another CAD program.

 

[3cyltrbo]

I bought this one (Punch Home and Landscape Design) but honestly I'm really not happy with it - it could be that my girlfriends laptop that its installed on isn't up to the task, but the laptop is only 6 months old so it should do the trick.

It was relatively cheap though $49.99 Canadian at Future Shop

I don't seem to be able to get it to do what the pictures look like

http://www.punchsoftware.com/nexgenweb.html

 

[Justanoldguy]

I use Broderbund 3D Home Architect and it does all I need it to.
I have AutoCad but rarely use it. Learning curve needs time, patience etc.

 

[Sharps]

Free Google SketchUp and an one of the several online rendering products will serve your purpose exceedingly well.

 

[Quiksilver]

I have used sketchup alot for around the house stuff, it's an awesome for the price, you can't beat free. I am fortunate enough to use Autodesk Inventor at work. Incredible program, but so is the price tag.

 

[Sharps]

I have used sketchup alot for around the house stuff, it's an awesome for the price, you can't beat free. I am fortunate enough to use Autodesk Inventor at work. Incredible program, but so is the price tag.

I have RevIt and it rocks for buildings, but I hate paying Autodesk all the time.

Using Autodesk is like having a crazy bikini model for a girlfriend, it's awesome until you have to start spending to keep it.

 

[George84]

I really like that FBi Planner. But I am going to try sketchup later.