In fact, there’s a good chance you’ve already tried it out. If you have experience with CAD, as many woodworkers and architects do, then you’ll love how familiar this software will feel. AutoDesk Fusion 360ĪutoDesk Fusion 360 is another great piece of woodworking design software that has a free trial version available to explore many of the possibilities found within the program. The software is basic, but sometimes that’s all you need to get started. It’s also compatible with a range of different file formats and works with Windows, macOS, and Linux systems. Inkscape is a great beginner option for anyone new to woodworking design because it has a simple drawing interface that will let you draw and sketch out ideas in minutes. Even so, it’s still effective and easy to use. The only downside is that it’s limited strictly to 2D designs so you won’t be able to get wrap-around views or any of the other benefits that come with a typical 3D program.

This option is simple to use, and the free version (invalid) gives you an extremely capable design platform. If you just need a basic drawing design software to hash out some of your ideas, Inkscape is a good way to go. You can only do 3D modeling in the free version, but that’s perfect for furniture and other woodworking projects. It uses a web-based platform to give you basic design features and comes with 10GB of cloud storage to build a library of your ideas. While not as fully functional as the paid versions, the free option is still a great tool for woodworking design purposes. SketchUp has several versions available, including a free one for personal use. The interactive design interface also gives you a virtual glance at your creations before you bring them to life. Woodworkers can take advantage of all of the included features to design anything from a basic chair or table to elaborate wood creations that will stretch the boundaries of your imagination. In essence, SketchUp is a drawing software that has a great user interface and a variety of features that help turn a design idea into reality.

It’s not specifically for woodworking design purposes, but the many features integrated into the software will allow you to design both 2D and 3D models with ease. This is a popular option, not only because it provides you with a good free platform for your woodworking designs, but also because the program has been around for quite a while.

Free cad programs for mac