I’d like to be able to draw simple drawings with dimensions and the like, but do not need and do not have the time to learn a cad program.
I wouldn’t be using it for work, just for my own reference and convenience.
Thanks for any suggestions!
Joe
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Replies
Given the parameters you presented, it can't be done.
do not have the time to learn
I would like to do framing as good as Dieselpig, but I don't have time to learn. So what's the chances I'll succeed?
"When asked if you can do something, tell'em "Why certainly I can", then get busy and find a way to do it." T. Roosevelt
Hasbeen, I've used several simple ones. Home Architect and Punch. Both will do simple floor plans and elevations rather easily. Neither is an expensive product.
Joe uses Paint quite efficiently. Thats probably already on your computer if you have windows.
blue
Thanks, blue.Life and suffering are inseparable.
Try out Sketchup. I think it is great. Takes a little while to get the hang of, but once you do the program is easy to use.
They even offer a free trial period. I think the website is http://www.sketchup.com
Several inexpensive programs at imsisoft.com
DG/Builder
I have been using Floor Plan (V10 $54.30 on their website). It does simple dimensions, offers 3d views, and is interoperable (somewhat) with TurboCad. The packages come from IMSI (http://www.imsisoft.com). They have a user forum similar to this one that is useful on figuring out how to do things with the program.
One of the most useful things with this program is that it is very easy to visualize sun angles. You can set up a quick version of your design, adjust overhangs, and then see where the shadow fall during the year.
Erich
Edited 1/27/2006 2:01 pm by Agatized
I find it easier to do most of my drawings by hand.
$30
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Edited 1/27/2006 1:51 pm ET by dustinf
That's what I've always done. I had several semesters of architectural and mechanical drafting in high school and trade school in the sixties and seventies (we even learned to draft with a draftsman's ink pen - one wrong move and you had a huge ink blot on your paper and had to start over!) The computer is so easy though, once you learn to operate the software. I can leave something unfinished on my computer whereas leaving my drafting board and tools out for very long tends to test my wife's patience.Life and suffering are inseparable.
I have Punch Architect Series 18, use it for floor plans, decks, etc. Cost was around a hundred. I find it adequate, but it has a mind of it's own sometimes. I've done a few full buildings with it and it draws a decent rendering for review. The help section is basic, the software has more tricks than the help sections addresses. Some of the choices in design elements are too limited, but it isn't a full blown CAD program either.