Timber Framers Guild Forums Tools Software timber frame design software

Hello. I am interested in designing timber frames. What are the software options for someone with a small budget? Thankyou, Ford

Hi,

For a zero balanced budget try Google Sketchup.

This will provide professional level 3D results.

Thank you. Can I do structure prints on this program. Can I draw to scale or not. Do timber framers design everything they need to build a frame with on this program?

The 45,45,90 triangle combined with the 30,60,90 works well too. In short whatever you use now can be used. The design medium is not the hard part.

Hello Mo,

I don't quite understand what you are talking of. Could you elaborate a bit more. Thank you, Ford

Howdy Ford,

Well, my point is representing a design of a machine and representing a design of a timberframe are one in the same. The hard part is making it work. Any type of designing program or even pencil will work if done with discipline. I have seen architectural drawings of one house that are at least a hundred pages all done on a drafting board with pencil and ink. But to jump off my soapbox and answer your question. Sketchup is a good start after pencil and paper. Cad is better but definetly not budget friendly for those concerned with anti-piracy laws.

p.s. search the software topic area. If you do not know how to use sketchup there are some great contributions in there for learning.

Thanks Mo. I will certainly do some searching and I do not know how to use Sketchup (is this what you all use for your little renderings I see through out this forum?). I do enjoy paper and pencil. Ford

I may try Sketchup this winter when there is not as much day light. I am under the impression it is less costly than even pencil and paper which is what I use. Paper and Pencil is my no tech approach. If you have a computer already you don't need any thing else? How about a printer, you need to take the work to the shop. Printers are par for the course anyway.

I have two drawing boards, one a "lap top" version, and a desk top with a T-square. I am looking at one with cables. Drawing by hand is not the least expensive. It has it's advantages and disadvantages. Tim

Ford:

I use Sketchup for all aspects of timber framing. From an initial sketch for my client during the bidding/pricing phase, right through the detailed shop drawings showing every mortise and peg holes. But Mo's point is a good one: Given enough time and care, you can get the job done with penicl and paper. The converse is also true: Do a sloppy job with Sketchup, and expect sloppy results.

For more information on using SU for timber framing, visit this page on my web site:
Timber Frame Design using Google Sketchup

Hello Clark,

Looking forward to learning the program and utilizing its tools. Agreed; just like anything, what one puts in is the results received.

Thank you, Ford