Best Free CAD Software?

C

Cstandi1

Active Member

RPF PREMIUM MEMBER

• Mar 27, 2017

• #1

I am looking for recommendations for the best free or cheap CAD software.

Basically I am looking for the ability import a picture of a prop, put a scale to it and take some measurements. I'd also like to be able to print it on a known grid size to make patterns easily. 3D is not necessary at this point.

I do have some experience with Autocad in high school, but that is over 10 years old now.

 

MWiggs

Well-Known Member

• Mar 27, 2017

• #2

Check out Draftsight by Dassault Systems - same people who built Solidworks. It works almost identical to AutoCAD and it's free!

 

xl97

Master Member

• Mar 27, 2017

• #3

Fusion 360 is 'free' and gaining popularity IMHO..

http://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/students-teachers-educators

 

C

Cstandi1

Active Member

RPF PREMIUM MEMBER

• Mar 27, 2017

• #4

Thanks, I will check those both out and see what I find more comfortable to use.

 

cavx

Master Member

• Mar 27, 2017

• #5

If it for pattern work, Sketch Up 2017 works great.

I had a play with Tinker CAD. It seems to draw better 3D shapes but not easy to use like SU is (could be just me).