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CAD Software for Woodworkers

CAD software enables you to create professional-looking dimensioned drawings that can be easily edited, resized, and viewed in a variety of ways. Here is a listing of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) products that are appropriate for furniture design and related woodworking applications. They range in price from free to $4000+. For CAD products specifically tailored towards cabinet design, see the Cabinet Design Software page.

Alibre Design Workshop
Built for woodworkers, inventors, machinists, and hobbyists, Alibre Design Workshop bundles industrial-strength 3D CAD with sheet materials optimization software. Allows you to precisely craft your woodworking projects in 3D and then produce 2D drawings. Alibre, Inc. Windows.

Alibre Design Xpress
A free 3D solid modeler for creating mechanical parts, assemblies and 2D drawings. More elegant features, like 3D sketching and part Booleans, can be found in the paid versions of the Alibre Design product family. Alibre, Inc. Windows.

ArchT
An add-on application for AutoCAD or IntelliCAD to provide a comprehensive 2D and 3D architectural design and documentation system. Autodsys, Inc. Windows.

AutoCAD
A premiere CAD product that sets the standard for industrial strength CAD. Provides smart drawing tools, presentation features, time-saving reference, raster, and Internet file-sharing capabilities, and much more. A professional level product for seasoned CAD users. Autodesk. Windows.

AutoCAD LT
A 2D CAD package that shares the same architecture, technology, and native DWG file format as AutoCAD but without the 3D, customization, and dynamic block authoring capabilities of its big brother. For people that have professional-level CAD requirements but don't require the full sophistication of AutoCAD. Autodesk. Windows.

AutoLine
Facilitates the creation and modification of new linetypes. Creating shapes is easy too because AutoLINE will convert all your blocks into shapes for inclusion in AutoCAD linetypes. Autodsys, Inc. Windows.

AutoSketch
A 2D design tool with many of the capabilities of AutoCAD but without the cost or complexity. Features the Application Wizard to create professional-looking drawings in no time flat. Appropriate for woodworkers with limited CAD experience. It started life as Drafix for DOS, it was rebranded as QuickCAD and has since become AutoSketch. Autodesk. Windows.

CADintosh
A 2D shareware CAD program for technical and architectural drawings. Features include import and export of HPGL, DXF and PICT formats, symbol libraries, layer filter, and numerous tools such as lines, hatching, splines, etc. Lemke Software. Macintosh.

CADOpia (IntelliCAD)
Provides much of the look and feel of AutoCAD but without the expense. Features include photorealistic rendering, handling of most AutoCAD file formats, and support for over 100 image formats including BMP, TIF, GIF, JPG, and CALS. Available in Standard, Premium, and Professional editions. CADopia Inc. Windows.

CadPLUS
Total AE/FM System front-ends and simplifies AutoCAD design and drafting tasks.
Object Engine allows you to add intelligent properties so your objects will know how to behave upon insertion. Nothing beats well-behaved objects! National MultiTech Ltd. Windows.

CADSOFT Build
A residential design package based on Autodesk's OEM engine. Build allows you to work on the floor plan while it automatically generates a completely accurate 3D model, working drawings, framing and quantity information. CADSOFT Corp. Windows.

CADVANCE
3D CAD package (that has been around as long as AutoCAD) with an extensive feature set: drafting/editting, presentation, reference file management, drawing management, networking, architectural aids, and full customization. F I T, Inc. Windows.

CADVANCE LiTE
A 2D version of CADVANCE for less complex CAD requirements. F I T, Inc. Windows.

CADView
Free CAD viewer. Use it to view CAD drawings created in FastCAD and EasyCAD as well as AutoCAD-compatible 2D DWG and DXF drawing files. It can search drawings for text, bookmark a sequence of drawings for orderly presentation, zoom in or out, or to named views, change visible layers, etc. Evolution Computing Inc. DOS and Windows.

Creative Woodturner
Design software that generates stunningly realistic 3D views of wood turnings. When you're happy with your design, just print out a full-sized or scaled drawing and take it to your lathe. Features over 140 different types of wood and 60+ turning designs that you can use as is or modify. MDR Software. Windows.

DataCAD 8
Features 2D drafting, 3D modeling, photo-realistic rendering and animation, automatic door and window insertion, associative dimensioning and hatching, automated 3D framing, 1,600+ symbols, 23 standard and hand-lettered fonts, and DXF/DWG translators. DATACAD LLC. Windows.

DeltaCad
An inexpensive and relatively easy to learn 2D CAD package with several features of interest to woodworkers such as Bill-of-Materials and many sample CAD drawings/libraries. Supports DWG input/output. Midnight Software. Windows.

DeltaCad Users Group
Sharing of DeltaCad specific files such as Drawings(.dc), Symbols(.sym) and Macros(.bas). Also features a forum dedicated to DeltaCad.

DenebaCAD 2
Cross-platform CAD product aimed mainly at architects and interior/exterior designers. Combines 2D drawing with photorealistic 3D rendering. Intuitive interface and rich toolset. Compare to ArchiCAD or minCAD. ACD Systems of America Inc. Windows/Macintosh.

DesignCAD Express
A 2D CAD package with features such as precise curve and arc control, automatic dimensioning, area calculation, DWG file support. DesignCAD Express offers the same powerful 2D features found in DesignCAD 3D. IMSI. Windows.

DesignCAD 3D Max
Combines powerful 2D drafting and 3D solid modeling with features such as free-form solid modeling, 3D texture mapping, real-time shaded view, Internet integration, animation tools, lots of customization features, 3D output, and AutoCAD compatibility. IMSI. Windows.

DesignCAD Unleashed - Resource for beginning and advanced users of DesignCAD software. Tips, tricks, tutorials, macros, symbol libraries and a discussion forum.

Design Intuition - CAD package for woodworkers and hobbyists that runs on Macs. User friendly interface enables you to quickly produce scaled drawings and optionally render them in 3-D. Comes with built-in smart objects for tables, cabinets, doors, and dimensional lumber. GizmoLab. Windows/Macintosh.

DesignWorkshop
Allows you to quickly and creatively sketch spatial ideas in live 3D perspective. Includes real-time rendering with lights and textures built in. Available in Lite, Classic Home, and Professional versions. (The Lite version is free!) Artifice Inc. Windows/Macintosh.

DigiCad
3D CAD program for obtaining elevations, drawings or maps from photos. Useful for architectural surveys and mapping. Interstudio. Windows/Macintosh.

EasyCAD
A downsized version of FastCAD with a simpler interface, lower price, and reduced number of drawing and editing capabilities (such as fill styles and overlay windows). Evolution Computing Inc. DOS and Windows.

Extreme CAD Pro - Professional CAD program with special tools for cabinet manufacturers. Allows you to wiew/Edit DXF files created by Extreme Control Center. Also use to design custom high-end parts complete with CNC machining operations. Extreme Software. Windows.

FastCAD
Hand-crafted CAD package known for it's processing speed (written in Assembly language), ease of use, and customization tools. Features include 3D rendering, a macro programming language, layering, symbol library, digitizer tablet support, styles, extensive editing tools, and multiple-drawing support. Evolution Computing Inc. DOS and Windows.

Google SketchUp
A free 3-D design program based on the popular SketchUp design application. Allows you to click on a shape and then use features such as push/pull to create your desired 3D geometry. Includes shadowing, texture fills, and a selection of thousands of pre-drawn components. Google Inc. Windows/Macintosh.

Graphite
2D Cad with 3D wire-frame rendering. Ideal for users who wish to explore initial design ideas with 2D sketches then create 3D wire-frame designs. Ashlar Inc. Windows/Macintosh.

HighDesign
2D CAD and illustration package featuring an extensive set of drawing and editing tools, context-sensitive interface, sophisticated project management features, and specialized functions. It gets high marks for snap functions and bang for the buck. Ilexisoft. Macintosh.

hsCADCreator
A CAD editor that allows for quick and intuitive design of technical, architectural, and engineering drawings. hsCADCreator is designed to make CAD affordable for individuals, and occasional/novice users, while still providing business users the features they need. Hachisoft Corporation. Windows.

IMOS-Design
A 3-D solid modeler developed expressly for the woodworking industry. It is driven by material libraries, connector libraries, and construction principles that reside in a relational database. The user works with a 3-D, parametric engineering model that defines the product attributes specific to each product ‘family’. Virtual Systems Int. Windows.

LatheSim
A spindle turning simulator that provides turning up to 7" radius and 36" long with full rotation and lighting control. Other features: 9 wood turning tools, including wood filler and stain, free textures, ability to add your own textures, save work as bitmap, and automatically dimensioned scale printing. Craftysims. Windows.

Ligno3D Designer - Excels in the design of complex faceted 3D objects with few, if any, right angles — objects like geodesic domes, polyhedra, sculptures, unusual furniture and houses, decorations and gem or crystal models. It also does spiral stairs, caskets, coffins, tents and hot-air balloons. Ligno3D Systems. Windows.

MacDraft
A 2D CAD application for creating floor plans, architectural and landscape drawings, technical illustrations, furniture drawings, and flowcharts. Features include linked dimensioning to automatically update dimensions as you modify components. Microspot Ltd. Macintosh.

Malz++Kassner CAD
(Successor to CAD/DRAW and WINCAD from Tommy Software). Includes Workflow Manager to simplify selecting objects and entering points, DWG import and export, and an extensive image library. Optimized for novice CAD users. Malz++Kassner. Windows.

PC-Draft
Designed for CAD users of all levels, multi-layered, scaled drawing environment supports both feet/inches and metric dimensions. In addition, Microspot PC Draft offers linked dimensioning to automatically update dimensions as you modify components. Microspot Ltd. Windows.

PowerCAD
Programmable 2/3D CAD with unrivalled AutoCAD compatibility. Available in multiple versions including Lite , Classic, and Pro. All PowerCAD versions include the ability to directly open existing designs and digital blueprints saved in industry standard DWG, DXF and FLX file formats. GiveMePower Corp. Windows.

PowerCADD
2D drafting package with an intuitive "draw program" interface that offers the flexibility of assigning the command keys of your choice. Features include symbol libraries, 3D depictions, and support for popular file formats such as DWG and DXF. Engineered Software. Macintosh.

QCad
Inexpensive 2D CAD product that runs on many different computer platforms. Designed with modularity, extensibility and portability in mind. Features intuitive user interface,layers, blocks, multiple fonts, DXF support, undos, and various modes for creating lines, arcs, circles, ellipses, parallels, angle bisectors, etc. Linux, Unix, Mac and Windows.

QuickCAD
QuickCAD is no longer available (as of September 2004.) Autodesk suggests that you check out AutoSketch or AutoCAD LT if you're looking for something similar to QuickCAD. Autodesk, Inc. Windows.

RealCADD
A vector-based CAD program that provides many basic 2D drawing features and can also read and write DWG files. RealCADD works like "MacDraw" but with more possibilities - handling of DXF files, importing images, layering, and more. Eric Pousse. Macintosh

Rhino
Free-form 3-D modeling tools with the ability to create, edit, analyze, and translate NURBS curves, surfaces, and solids. Develop ideas in 3-D, render to get a better feeling for the design, and transfer the data to your CAD system for detailing and dimensioning. Supports many file formats including DXF and DWG, and outputs STL, the language of 3D printers. Robert McNeel & Assoc. Windows.

RouterSim
Router simulator design software that features full rotation and lighting control, approximately 70 predefined cutters, design your own cutter profiles, texture mapping, export to bit maps, and the ability to produce a cut list with fence and cutter height settings. Craftysims. Windows.

ShopView
Views shop drawings from AutoCAD or any of 65 other drawing file formats. Merge plans, elevations, sections and specifications into a single application. Links with Takeoff estimating software. Plogic Solutions Ltd. Windows.

SketchList3D
SketchList3D is an affordable rapid CAD tool that lets you visualize your customers' requirements before you turn on your saw. Includes sub-assembly shortcuts, WYSIWYG design, and built-in reports make the transfer of your designs to the workshop fast and effective. The Woodworking Software Company Ltd. Windows.

SketchUp
3D form creation and design tool that is sophisticated yet easy to grasp. Ideal for anyone who loves sketching by hand but finds using CAD cumbersome or frustrating. Exchanges data with all standard CAD, 3D modeling, image editing, and illustration applications. Last Software, Inc. Windows/Macintosh.

SmartSketch
Combines business diagramming with 2D drawing technology. Translates/references data from other CAD products, allowing you to view, edit, or redline CAD data. Includes SmartSketch visual feedback while drawing, freehand sketching, and integration compatibility with Mathcad. Intergraph. Windows.

SolidBuilder
A residential and light construction application that creates 3-D models and automatically frames using your choice of wood, logs, steel, concrete, brick/block. Generates cutting and layout lists, bill of materials and quantity takeoff. Digital Canal. Windows.

SoftPlan
Residential design software for creating house or woodshop plans. Using information created in floorplans and roof plan modules, it automatically generates: elevations, cross-sections, 3D-perspectives and a material take-off. SoftPlan Systems Inc. Windows.

Squiggle
Gives your CAD drawings a hand-sketched look. As they say: "design with CAD, sell with Squiggle!". Insight Development Corp. Windows.

Spinfire CAD Viewer
Lets you visualize native 3D CAD/CAM models without being required to have a full featured CAD system. Handles many formats including IGES, STL, VDA, VRML, G Code, DXF, DWG, Catia, Solidworks, and Parasolids. Imtech Design. Windows.

3D Analyzer Software
A link between 3D drawing/modelling packages and CAM Software for the woodworking industry. Allows the operator to automate the manual processes, import data from your 3D CAD application, generates custom cutting lists for use on the factory floor as well as making allowances for variations to panel size to suit edging thickness.

TurboCAD
A popular CAD package among woodworkers featuring fully integrated 2D & 3D functionality, 3D wireframe viewing, a setup wizard, voice enabled commands, quick dimensioning tool, hidden line rendering, multi-monitor display support, thousands of CAD symbols, and much more. IMSI. Windows/Macintosh.

Visual Cadd
A high performance and intuitive 2D design and drafting tool, and a powerful CAD development engine. Designed for production-oriented CAD work, with features such as tracking and command line interaction for direct distance and coordinate entry. Also known for an uncluttered interface and an Open API. TriTools Partners. Windows.

VectorWorks
Integrates object-based design with precision 2D drafting, powerful 3D modeling, high-quality rendering, a dynamically linked worksheet function, and a flexible scripting language. Also provides an extensive library of intelligent 2D/3D objects. Nemetschek. Windows/Macintosh.

VersaCAD
2D drafting program originally developed for Apple platform. Ships with a set of standard symbol libraries for setting up architectural, mechanical, and other design projects. Also has a translator for importing CAD files from other products, including AutoCAD. Archway Systems. Windows/Macintosh.

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