Frees On Line Design Program

[NCtim]

Hey Folks,

Does anyone know of an easy to use drafting program I can use to draw plans and elevations? I drew all my plans out for my building permit but a buddy of mine really likes my garage/shop and he wants me to do the same for him. In return he gave me a bunch of equipment he was getting rid of because he downsized. My drafting table and such are stored in the attic and I just want to get him some simple plans to get a permit.

Thanks for any help!

NCtim

 

[sscsjtcs]

It's not online, but it's free. Draftsight by Dassault (solidworks). I believe it is similar to autocad. I've spent 20+ years drawing on a different CAD package and it is not intuitive to me (but I will be learning).

http://www.3ds.com/products-services/draftsight-cad-software/free-download/

 

[83VillageRepair]

I will 2nd the Draftsight recommendation. It is 2d clone of standard Autocad. If you use the keyboard for commands as I do you can type in the all of the standard Autocad hotkey commands. Plotting is a little wonky compared to Autocad but functional.

Dassault is the maker of Solidworks a competitor of Autodesk so I believe they are trying to get some market share in the cad market before starting to charge.

Wade

 

[engineer2]

Most 2D programs are pretty easy to learn if you've had some experience at the drafting board.

There is a new cloud-based 3D CAD program called OnShape which works through your browser. Been tempted to try it. It is 2D and/or 3D. They let you create and store 5GB or up to 10 drawings for free.

I use SolidWorks Professional 3D from time-to-time, but it takes a while to learn and you need to use it regularly to remain proficient. Fine if you have it at work, but spendy for an individual.