Custom designed buildings

[bnsf0823]

Does anyone know of some good inexpensive design software that i could use to design model buildings?  looking for an easy to use program that would work for a cnc machine format.  Thanks 

Scott Clements

[RR_Mel]

The most common files are .dxf for 2D files and .STL for 3D.  I do not know of any “easy” programs that use those file extensions.  CAD software has a large learning curve.  If you are really into computer programs it might not be that hard to learn.  I got into using Cad when the IBM PC was first introduced back in the early 80s.

 

I started out with ProDesign which involved into DesignCAD and now is TurboCAD.  There are several Freeware CAD packages available but all have a steep learning curve.

 

 

Edit:

 

There are several relatively new Die Cutting machines available that have easier to learn software packages.  Circuit is available at most Craft stores for under $300.

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0iIfrBeHe60

 

https://home.cricut.com/

 

 

 

Mel

 

Modeling the early to mid 1950s SP in HO scale since 1951

 

My Model Railroad   

http://melvineperry.blogspot.com/

 

Bakersfield, California

 

I'm beginning to realize that aging is not for wimps.

[hon30critter]

Mel:

Interesting machine! Thanks for the links.

Dave

[Graffen]

I use Fusion 360 CAD when designing my models. Free for hobbyists.

[RR_Mel]

hon30critter

Mel:

Interesting machine! Thanks for the links.

Dave

 

Dave

 

The Circuit (pronounced Cricket) is a very nice CNC machine.  A local craft store had a demo setup for customers to try out, they will hook you pretty easily.

 

 

I debated buying one for a couple of months but finally decided that $300 would get me a lot more model railroad goodies.

 

 

Mel

 

Modeling the early to mid 1950s SP in HO scale since 1951

 

My Model Railroad   

http://melvineperry.blogspot.com/

 

Bakersfield, California

 

I'm beginning to realize that aging is not for wimps.