topic Re: Drafting software question in AutoCAD Forum

Drafting software question

Anonymous — Tue, 09 Feb 2021 13:16:40 GMT

I'm currently working on a engineering project by myself and am looking for drafting software to help with making some of my parts. What I would like to do is use the software to come up with the engineering drawing of the part I plan on making. Then I'll be able to print out the drawing and stencil it in on the actual workpiece that I'll be cutting to match the drawing. Are there any free software packages that will allow me to draw the plans and print them out at the correct dimensions on paper?

Re: Drafting software question

Patchy — Tue, 09 Feb 2021 14:05:47 GMT

Free 1 year for student

Flat parts Autocad can do it.

Curve parts then flatten out, try Inventor

Re: Drafting software question

leeminardi — Tue, 09 Feb 2021 15:49:16 GMT

You mention "drafting software" which often implies the need to make precise 2D drawings that include the ability to create engineering drawings that meet drafting standards including dimension lines, line style (dashed, center lines, etc.) as well as notes and standard symbols. You then go on to say you want to "stencil it on the actual work piece." This implies that all you really need is a 2D line drawing (no dimension lines, etc.) printed at full scale. Of course AutoCAD can address this but unless you are a student you cannot get a free copy and the learning curve is steep.

If all you want is good linework you could use a variety of drawing software, A friend of mine who does not have access to CAD software finds Power Point great for making scaled drawings! It has grids, easy construction of standard shapes and and an easy way to create and edit splines.

Re: Drafting software question

Anonymous — Wed, 10 Feb 2021 14:46:09 GMT

Re: Drafting software question

RobDraw — Wed, 10 Feb 2021 17:05:13 GMT

With TV and movie listings?