Blue Print Software

[cooter472]

I'm looking for a windows 8 program compatible software to draw up the blue prints for receiver mounts that I can take to machine shops for estimates. I can draw them on paper but the shops around here will charge extra when they see them. I'm looking for something that you don't have to be a genius to use and somewhat affordable.

[Chaffyn]

I'm looking for a windows 8 program compatible software to draw up the blue prints for receiver mounts that I can take to machine shops for estimates. I can draw them on paper but the shops around here will charge extra when they see them. I'm looking for something that you don't have to be a genius to use and somewhat affordable.

Tim ~

I just discovered this.  Like you I do a lot of drawing pad mock-up to work from.
But the other day I found Google Sketchup, watched a YouTube tutorial or three,
and tried it.  It's pretty neat and easy.  Not at all like a typical CAD program.

I'll hook a picture of my first attempt below.

You can find out more and download for FREE here:  http://google-sketchup.en.softonic.com/

Here's a link to get you started at YouTube:  http://tinyurl.com/kx3wsab

Give it a shot!  (pun intended)

.

[shorty]

E machine shop seems to be Ok as well. you can even submit your drawing for costing.

[sixshootertexan]

I have Quickcad by Autodesk. It is no longer made but you can find copies of it on ebay. I have used Emachine Shop to to make 3D models.

[michaelthomas]

If you are a student, or if you have one at home......you could get Rhino for about 250.00, I think.

You can download a free to use copy with 25 saves to try out.  Lynda.com has excellent Rhino video tutorials as well.

Rhino can import and export to about any format, too.  That's a handy item if you are having cnc shops do work for you.

Mike

[David.Soliman]

Liber CAD is very easy to use and there is a youtube tutorial for it, plus you can easily convert the files produced by Liber CAD to AutoCAD and most CNC software. Made those using LiberCAD:

[Ol'DeadEye]

Liber CAD is very easy to use and there is a youtube tutorial for it, plus you can easily convert the files produced by Liber CAD to AutoCAD and most CNC software. Made those using LiberCAD:

Link to LibreCad: http://librecad.org/cms/home.html

[cooter472]

I used the Emachine this weekend and it locked the ;aptop up

[Rescue35]

The one I use, Heeks CAD.

Another option I have considered, Dolphin CAD.

These where drawn with HeeksCAD

[Bullit]

Cooter
You may wanna ask what program they are using.  If your program isn't compatible, where they can just download your files;  then they'll still charge you since they have to manually enter it onto their format.    Autodesk is a very popular format in the manufacturing industry.   Even Autodesk's "Autocad Lite", works with their stuff.    If you can't get a copy (even older copy), from someone,  and you're not gonna interface w/industry much, then the upcharge might be cheapest, and just get a cheap drawing program.   CorelDraw is one out that was close to the Autocad.