drafting software

[Wuzshadetree]

Does anybody here use drafting software to outline your building projects before you begin? I took 3 years of drafting in jr. high and high school back before Shep's Mom wuz born, and can still come up with a relative clean and detailed drawing of something by hand if need be. However, I am aware that there are all kinds of software programs available to execute quick drawings of things. Yes, I know about some of the CAD programs, and they are quite handy, but generally cost far more than I would like to spend.

So I'm looking for an inexpensive one that maybe one of us GJ users could use to provide say a head on elevation drawing of the exterior look of a project, to scale, that could lay in details of brick or block, differing kinds of siding, different roof types, windows, etc. The wife would like to have some idea of what I am proposing to build prior to signing onto my projects, if ya know what I mean. I figure a nice 8 1/2"X 11" quick draw would go a long way to help her get the gist of my thinking.

Am I asking too much? Thanks in advance for any suggestions. Is there an archive on this site that might have something on this topic? Yerz, Wuzshadetree

 

[doug.j]

How about Google sketchup?

 

[scooby074]

sketchup will do both 2d and 3d. not bad but the interface is a bit clunky imho, when compared to commercial products like Acad and Solidworks.

there was a free ACAD clone i tried once,that was a pretty good copy, but the name escapes me..

 

[usa#1]

One of the free Acad clones that I have used was Intellicad. It was a great program for free. The commands were basically identical to the real autocad program. I'm not sure if it's still available for free anymore. Do a google search. The free versions may still be available.

 

[swharris]

FREE: http://cbstructures.icovia.com/icovia.aspx

CB Structures interface for Icovia

For the layman(like me) and if you only want 2D, try this one. VERY easy to use...for me that is paramount. The need MORE shop tool icons though

 

[Torque1st]

One of the free Acad clones that I have used was Intellicad. It was a great program for free. The commands were basically identical to the real autocad program. I'm not sure if it's still available for free anymore. Do a google search. The free versions may still be available.

I still use IntelliCAD at least one every week. I bought it for $30 many years ago in a box at the local office supply store. Just Google "IntelliCAD". Nobody supports my "version" any more.

 

[A_Pmech]

Pencil CAD.

Then, when you're sure it's right, Pen CAD.

 

[Torque1st]

Yes, I still use that too...

 

[curtrnev]

http://www.alibre.com/products/

 

[Kev442]

TurboCad has been around forever. Can be had for $75.

 

[lupinsea]

At work we use ArchiCAD, a 3D modeling software that also lets us do 2D drawings based on the model. I've used it to do various home project, the most recent being the design of a new shed project I've just started. Very handy and powerful. But at $4200+ it's a little pricey for home use.

If it's some basic drafting / drawing and I didn't have access to this program. . . . I like Pencil or Pen CAD. Very cost effective. Just pick up an architectural scale at any drafting / drawing supply vendor for $5. Maybe some graph paper, too, if you want some guide lines for help.

If you want something computerized then, sure, look to the free or budget 3D software. Sketch up would probably good for general visualization, though I can't comment on it's ability to produce 2D working drawings.