Simple drawing software for making DWG files

[Imagedude]

I want some parts laser cut from plate steel so I'm looking for some simple software to make .DWG files. I've looked at Solidworks and Draughtsite but they are way too complicated for me. Any suggestions as to which other software will make simple dimensioned line drawings in .DWG format?

 

[Grotzilla]

AutoCAD should do the trick, all 2d draughting so pretty simple

Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk

 

[scarfell]

you can use the Adobe DWG to DXF convertor, and use a gnu program like InkScape to edit; or design in InkScape then convert to DWG

(if its a one off project, download the demo version of auto CAD)

 

[pieinthesky]

Draftsight is free and though it looks complicated, the basic 2D features you need are very easy to master.

I don't know what you are drawing but you probably only need to learn a handful of commands. If you find a simpler package than Draftsight you will still have to learn the same commands and they will probably work in much the same way.

 

[dewi]

Alternatively look for a vectorising person… someone who can draw the artwork into the a DWF from your pencil drawing… depending on how complicated it is, it could be as little as a fiver. Saves learning software and spending hours drawing… you'll know it is right first time and ready for production.

 

[Mike313]

If it's for a one-off project you might be best getting it done by someone who is used to using CAD software.
Is it for yourself or for a company? Is it quite complex or something simple?

 

[Imagedude]

It's just rectangles and circles cut from a sheet of plate steel, I'll probably just get the cutting company to generate cut paths from my pencil sketches...

 

[Mike313]

I might be able to help you. I'll send you a PM.

 

[dewi]

Same here… I work with different cutting machines everyday. If its rectangles and circles, just send the sizes to either me or Mike, and job done.

I was under the impression it was something more complex. Even then, its not really a bother to vectorise stuff… but I've given over doing complicated vectors… life is too short.

 

[scarfell]

It's just rectangles and circles cut from a sheet of plate steel, I'll probably just get the cutting company to generate cut paths from my pencil sketches...

I use this for designing front panels for racked hardware, nice and simple, i'm sure they can handle one of the standard file formats it can out put

https://www.schaeffer-ag.de/en/downloads/front_panel_designer/

(its free)