Introduction
Woodworking is a rewarding activity that requires precision, creativity and technical knowledge. Creating woodworking plans can be quite challenging, especially for beginners. Fortunately, there are now many apps for drawing woodworking plans that have been designed to make the process easier and more accessible for everyone. In this blog post, we will be exploring the 10 best apps for drawing woodworking plans, and how they can help you in your woodworking journey.
1. SketchUp
SketchUp is a popular 3D modeling software that is great for creating woodworking plans. It has a user-friendly interface that makes it easy for beginners to use. The software offers a wide range of pre-built models, as well as the option to create your own designs from scratch. You can also add annotations, dimensions, and other custom details to make your plans more detailed and precise.
2. AutoCAD
AutoCAD is a professional-grade software that is widely used in the architectural and engineering fields. It offers powerful tools for 2D and 3D modeling, as well as advanced features such as a command-line interface and customizable keyboard shortcuts. While it may be more challenging for beginners to use, it is an excellent option for those who are serious about woodworking and want to create detailed and precise plans.
3. Fusion 360
Fusion 360 is a 3D modeling software that is popular among woodworkers and other makers. It offers a wide range of features, including parametric modeling, rendering, and simulation. Fusion 360 is a cloud-based software, which means that your work can be easily accessed and shared across multiple devices.
4. Google Drawings
Google Drawings is a free web-based application that is great for creating simple woodworking plans. It has a user-friendly interface and offers a wide range of drawing tools, including shapes, lines, and text boxes. You can also easily collaborate with others on your plans by sharing them with a link.
5. LibreCAD
LibreCAD is a free, open-source CAD software that is great for creating 2D woodworking plans. It offers a user-friendly interface, and a wide range of tools for drawing lines, shapes, and text. While it may not have all the features of professional-grade software, it is an excellent option for beginners who want to create detailed and precise plans without breaking the bank.
6. Easy Woodworking Design
Easy Woodworking Design is a mobile app that is great for creating simple woodworking plans on the go. It has a user-friendly interface and offers a range of tools for drawing lines, shapes, and text. You can also easily share your plans with others by exporting them as a PDF or image file.
7. Woodcraft
Woodcraft is a mobile app that is specifically designed for woodworkers. It offers a range of tools for drawing plans, making lists of required materials, and calculating cut sizes. It also has a built-in database of woodworking projects, which can be a great source of inspiration for beginners.
8. Cabinet Planner
Cabinet Planner is a software that is specifically designed for creating cabinet woodworking plans. It offers a range of tools for designing and rendering custom cabinets, as well as a pricing feature that helps you estimate the cost of materials. While it may be more specialized than other options on this list, it is an excellent tool for those who want to create professional-grade cabinet plans.
9. Woodworking Calculator
Woodworking Calculator is a mobile app that is great for calculating measurements and cut sizes. It offers features such as a board foot calculator, a decimal to fraction converter, and a right-angle calculator. While it may not be suitable for creating detailed plans, it is an excellent tool for those who want to make accurate measurements quickly and easily.
10. Woodcraft Magazine
Woodcraft Magazine is a digital publication that offers a wide range of woodworking plans and projects. While it may not be a drawing app, it is an excellent source of inspiration and ideas for beginners who are looking for their next project. The magazine also offers tips and tutorials on different woodworking techniques, making it a great resource for anyone who wants to improve their skills.
Conclusion
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced woodworker, using the right tools can make all the difference in your projects. We hope that this guide has been helpful in finding the right app for your woodworking plans. Remember that practice makes perfect, and with the help of these tools, you will be creating professional-grade woodworking plans in no time. Happy woodworking!