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Woodworking software for the novice or pro...

2K views 4 replies 2 participants last post by  BigJimAK 
#1 ·
Hi all, I have been out of woodworking for a few years, just kinda getting back into it. Is there any design layout software out there I could/should be looking at? Five years ago or so, there was CAD, but nothing that I remember which was really tailored to woodworking. Is there something out there that knows what different type joints are for quick/easy layouting, maybe something that will let you "skin" a project with different type woods?

Like I said, not really up to date with what's out there, and really don't have time/inclination to devote to a protracted learning curve.
 
#2 ·
Bob,

Opinions on the use of computer programs with woodworking seem to have a strong bi-polar opinion, with people loving or hating the idea but one computer program that is getting a lot of publicity is google's (free) program Sketchup. I've installed it but haven't used it enough to have an opinion, except its a lot more user-friendly than other CAD-type programs I've used.

Here's a link to some videos on TheWoodWhisperer's site demonstrating its use for woodworking projects.

SketchUp | The Wood Whisperer Woodworking Video Podcast and Blog
 
#4 ·
Don't know if this is old news or not... but found some more videos:

Sketchup for Woodworkers - Tutorials

Full Tutorials
Getting Started, Part 1 : Setting up the workspace, using basic tools
Getting Started, Part 2 : Building a bookshelf
Dados, Rabbets and Grooves : Beginning joinery, easier navigation with shortcuts
Curves, Moulding and the Outliner : Using components and adding moulding with curves and the FollowMe tool
Moulding Revisited : A couple more examples of adding moulding to a model
Joints, Joints, Joints : A bunch of common woodworking joints
Dimensions and Printing : Adding dimensions and printing plans

Quickies
Raised Panel
Turned Leg
Curved tapered leg

This might well be what I've been looking for, gotta watch a few more vids...
 
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