Built-in Design

carver348

Was wondering if someone could give the name of a good computer program for designing and layout for built-ins and bookshelves? Something that would show what a complete job would look like. Any help would be appreciated.

neolitic

Fine Wood Working has been doing
a tutorial on using Google Sketch Up
for furniture.
They even get it to draw up details of
the joinery, as well as 3-D views etc.

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(Sorry....it seems there really are dumb questions)

J F

Hi Carver

We use Chief Architect, and while not specifically designed for cabinets/bookcases it does a pretty good job. See attached pdf.

I'll try to resized the pdf with the finished pics as well on another post.

J

Attached Files

Thiel Layout - Rev 3 short..pdf (146.5 KB, 101 views)

J F

Here's a couple of pics of the finished cabinets.

J

Attached Files

	Cabinets - shop web.pdf (160.4 KB, 96 views)
	Thiel - Finish short b.pdf (93.8 KB, 77 views)

J F

Something I didn't mention is that is is relatively pricey if you are just starting out, so keep that in mind. I think it's about $2,500 or so at this time.

I've used it for about 5 years now. It took a good 6-12 months to get proficient, but I was starting from scratch...you mileage may vary.

J

J F

bump...

anyone else have any advice for the op (if he's still around)?

I'm always interested in what's going on design wise.

J

(this was supposed to be here http://www.contractortalk.com/f13/built-design-35413/

Trimcat

J F that is really awesome..... I like how it renders over all but did it get the perspective right? The wall on the left looks like it's splayed out in the drawing, but in real life it looks square..... even if that is the case though, very nice program... you definitely can give the customer a very good idea of the final over all look.

J F

Hey Trimcat

Yeah, the drawings can get a little out of whack...depending on where you first place the "virtual camera" in the drawing....if you move far from the orginal "virtual camera", the perspectives can get a little skewed.

Good eye though. If I'm not being a little careless, I can get damn near perfect "photos" within the software.

J

Trimcat

Oh I got ya.... ya, looking at it again, it looks like the virtual camera was placed outside of that room actually......... but I see why you wanted to do that, otherwise, it wouldn't have rendered a nice 3D look.... too straight on... It would be nice if you could tell the program OK, on this shot, remove the left wall but leave the cabinet square... But even so.. I like it..

carver348

Thanks for the ideas, I've downloaded the sketchpro (free version) and it's working pretty good so far. I'm currently only a hobby woodworker aspiring for something bigger.

J F

If the op is still watching this thread, I forgot all about ecabinet software...free...and for just what you are wanting to use it for:

http://www.ecabinetsystems.com/ecab_...b_software.htm

Just keep in mind like all cad/design software, you'll have to have some patience while learning, and expect to spend a good amount of time learning.

I'm sure there is a users' forum for the software, which is always very helpful.

Good luck.

J