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CAD Software

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  #1  
Old 02-07-10, 11:39 AM
Z
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CAD Software
I am looking to purchase some CAD software in order to design some room layouts and possibly assist in designing some furniture/tables. I was wondering if anyone had any tips on which software would be best for a DIY'er like myself. I am looking for something that is not too technical and is affordable. Any help or suggestions would be appreciated.
 
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  #2  
Old 02-07-10, 12:05 PM
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Wood magazine had a good article for sketchup Google SketchUp to design new projects. Best of all it free for the non-pro version.
 
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Old 02-07-10, 01:45 PM
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Hi zeegin10, welcome to DIY Forums!

Please, check these threads
http://forum.doityourself.com/home-p...-programs.html

http://forum.doityourself.com/home-p...-software.html

Hope this helps
 
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  #4  
Old 02-08-10, 01:00 PM
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Google sketchup it's free from Google and works like other CAD programs
 
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  #5  
Old 02-08-10, 01:57 PM
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Originally Posted by mgmine View Post
Google sketchup it's free from Google and works like other CAD programs
Not really. Note that Sketchup is a drawing program, not a design or home design program, therefore you can draw a plan but you can't use the info for technical purposes as you can do with a design or home design program
The main difference is the fact that with Sketchup(or similar), the program doesn't know if it is drawing a fine art picture or your kitchen prints
In a Home Design program , the program understands that you are drawing a wall, for example, and you can calculate the materials for that wall, framing, etc
 
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Old 02-08-10, 03:54 PM
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Okay, I would be looking for more of a home design program then. I want something that can estimate material costs and allow me to draw a blueprint.
 
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  #7  
Old 02-08-10, 04:22 PM
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Then you need a Home Design program for sure
Check the options I described and let us know if you need additional help
 
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  #8  
Old 02-08-10, 04:42 PM
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Better Homes&Gardens Home designer", may be more than you need, but not extremely pricey. I also use Chief Architect, very pricey. Same company did the software.
 
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Old 02-08-10, 06:10 PM
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Better Homes&Gardens is too focused in decoration.

For an excellent price for a Home design program--> Envisioneer express... it is free!!! (no limitations)
Free 3D Home Design Software by Cadsoft
 
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