Replies

1. 
   jaypoe | Feb 15, 2005 07:05pm | #1

   Drafting table with a few tools (french curve, scale and a few others) might fit the bill. I just set up a very nice table in my LR/office. I have yet to use it for drafting but that light green, super smooth surface is just waiting to be used. Makes a very nice tall stand at desk. Doesn't get any simpler than pencil and paper. I still do all my drafting in ACAD but much of my book keeping is still on paper. I have reverted a little and prefer to carry a clipboard with callendar, notes, schedule, plans etc. My Palm is still being used but only as a phone book and calculator. I have read alot of folks using Sketchup (?). I have yet to download and try it but from what I have read it is user friendly. Take a look at ACAD LT ($500 I think). With a good teacher and patience you can quikly learn the necessary skills to do layouts and design. Learning curve might be a little steep but it is such a powerfull tool. Might be worth your effort.

1. 
   acepilot1 | Feb 15, 2005 11:32pm | #2

   Thanks for the info Jay. I can do the pencil tricks, but still looking for software, preferrably less than $150. Probably not even available.
   Bill

2. 
   stephengaal | Feb 16, 2005 12:13am | #3

   If you want a decent 2-d CAD package that is very easy to use and costs $40, try Delatcad.

   http://www.deltacad.com

   Stephen J. Gaal

    

    

1. 
   acepilot1 | Feb 16, 2005 05:07am | #4

   Thanks for the info. Stephen. I'll check it out.

1. 
   Michmesquite | Feb 16, 2005 08:48am | #5

   Bill

   There is a very intutive design, not CAD, program that is PC/Mac. It is called SketchUp 4.0. http://www.sketchup.com

   There is a time limited d/l available for trial. It is pricey, but I have seen some very intricate designs done with the program._________________________________

   Michael in San Jose

   "In all affairs it's a healthy thing now and then to hang a question mark on the things you have long taken for granted." Bertrand Russell 

3. 
   Pondfish | Feb 16, 2005 07:15pm | #6

   I would recommend staying away from CAD software unless you are very comfortable using a computer. 

   For design, I always start with a sketch book, and sometimes move to CAD drafting.  I am very comfortable around computers, having spent 20 years in biochemistry working with computer assisted molecular modeling and running software development businesses.  That said, I still find that CAD software tends to be tricky unless you are good at doing some math and geometry in your head.

   Finally, I have always worked up the "aesthetics" of my pieces on paper--never in CAD land.  CAD is good for construction diagrams and getting down to the nitty gritty, but I've found it easier to develop the looks of a piece on paper.  Of course, if you can't draw well, your experience could be the opposite of mine. 

    

   Good luck!

   Paul

1. 
   acepilot1 | Feb 16, 2005 08:06pm | #7

   Thanks for the info, Paul.

4. 
   SEBDESN | Feb 16, 2005 09:51pm | #8

   I agree with Paul, just sketch it out and then go build it.The time It will take you to learn a cad and then draw something is time wasted that could be used making sawdust! I have Autocad 2000, and only use it to design kitchen floor plans.Once you build some stuff, then its not a big deal to build as you go along.

1. 
   acepilot1 | Feb 16, 2005 10:53pm | #9

   I'm not much of an artist with a pencil, but planning on taking a drawing class this spring. Thanks.

5. 
   Brett | Feb 17, 2005 02:08am | #10

   A few issues ago, Fine Woodworking did a test of lower-end CAD programs. The one that stuck out to me (and to the author of the article) was called DesignCad MAX 3D. I found it at Staples for about $100 Canadian, and I think I'll go for it as soon as I can work it into my budget. I have AutoCAD 2000 and was schooled in AutoCAD back in 1990-91, and I find it pretty intense. DesignCad MAX looks a whole lot more straight forward. Check out that FWW issue, I think it may ahve been the one with clamps on the front cover.

1. 
   acepilot1 | Feb 17, 2005 09:54pm | #11

   Thanks. I will check it out//Bill