Beginner CAD recommendation

[krith]

Hey guys what cad software do you recommend that I can learn to make a model ship plans(sorry for the bad grammar, English is not my first language)

[TJM]

I use QCAD, it is very cheap for a lifetime license, I find it very easy and intuitive to use with no prior CAD experience and there is a free trial you can just download to evaluate if this is for you. The downside is that it is strictly 2D, so all the spacial considerations will have to happen in your head! It's like doing it on paper, but with digital precision and layers.

 

It is very easy to import an image, scale it, and then start to draw your design on top of that reference. I have designed several PoB hulls from original construction drawings like this over past year.

 Have a look here: https://modelshipworld.com/topic/37190-historical-plans-via-cad-to-laser-cut-parts-practicum/

 

 

You can also use Onshape, which is online and completely free AND full 3D. But the learning curve is steeper and I have not progressed very far on mine yet!

 

 

Edited Wednesday at 06:34 AM by TJM

[CCClarke]

There could be as many recommendations as there are different software applications for beginning CAD users.

 

Two of the most powerful and popular CAD applications: 

Fusion 360 has a free version and there is a lot of free training available.  The same goes for Blender. 

[krith]

On 6/11/2025 at 2:33 PM, TJM said:

I use QCAD, it is very cheap for a lifetime license, I find it very easy and intuitive to use with no prior CAD experience and there is a free trial you can just download to evaluate if this is for you. The downside is that it is strictly 2D, so all the spacial considerations will have to happen in your head! It's like doing it on paper, but with digital precision and layers.

 

It is very easy to import an image, scale it, and then start to draw your design on top of that reference. I have designed several PoB hulls from original construction drawings like this over past year.

 Have a look here: https://modelshipworld.com/topic/37190-historical-plans-via-cad-to-laser-cut-parts-practicum/

 

 

You can also use Onshape, which is online and completely free AND full 3D. But the learning curve is steeper and I have not progressed very far on mine yet!

 

 

Thank you imma try qcad and then print it into a paper and then put it in a balsa wood