It seems what I found that I wanted was that and more. I couldn’t justify it and started looking around for something else. For example, AutoCAD LT was going to cost me $425. It seems that everyone in CAD is moving from a desktop one-time purchase to the more expensive SaaS (Software as a Service) business model. Where I am having difficulty now is the cost. Most CAD programs are very similar, so moving from one to another is not much of a problem. As with anything new, there is a learning curve and it takes time and devotion to learn. I could do it faster that way until I took the time to learn CAD. Like you, I was a pencil-and-paper type of guy. “For more than 20 years I was a machinist and had the opportunity to work with several CAD programs during that time. Be bold and jump in with both feet.” – bobrakarj2

SketchUp is much easier to learn and gives you everything in 3D. I know Jay Bates uses SketchUp for a lot of his layout and design, but I’m not sure if that is what he imports to his CNC’s interface.

If you are going to use a CAD program to interface with a CNC, then I believe it should be a robust program. “I have been using IMSI’s TurboCAD since its early days, so I am pretty comfortable with it, but any CAD program that gives you the functionality of complete control is going to have a steep learning curve. Here’s what a number of you have to say on the matter. Last week Rob wondered what your experiences and opinions are about CAD programs.

Easy free cad program home design