Best free simple CAD software to create simple deck plans?

Discussion in 'Software' started by RSD, Sep 2, 2025.

  1. RSD
    Joined: Nov 2022
    Posts: 230
    Likes: 52, Points: 28
    Location: Red Sea, Egypt

    RSD Senior Member

    I'm looking for a free but very simple to learn and use CAD software to do some playing around with deck layouts etc - so essentially draw 2D plans. What do people suggest for this?
     
  2. fallguy
    Joined: Dec 2016
    Posts: 8,517
    Likes: 1,965, Points: 123, Legacy Rep: 10
    Location: usa

    fallguy Boat Builder

    My son developed a video of my boat using Fusion 360. I think now called Autodesk Fusion. It does require some learning. I directed the effort; mostly so friends and family could see the final product. This was not modified for the bow extension work.

    He developed this short video that explains how the Skoota 32 demountable goes together. But it could be used in other ways.

    My other son did the music. Turn down your phone or others may think you are visiting a skin website.

    It is free or low cost for limited use. You could buy the regular version for $680 a year if you wanted to use it for communication with the NA.

     
    bajansailor likes this.
  3. Tops
    Joined: Aug 2021
    Posts: 409
    Likes: 122, Points: 43
    Location: Minnesota

    Tops Senior Member

    @RSD If you are just wanting to do 2D plans, I would try the free 2D version of QCAD.
    It is not as 'shiny' as the mainstream commercial offerings but zero cost gets the job done.
    I have used it both for plans and for data that eventually goes to CNC (router and laser)

    @fallguy nice video!
     
    fallguy likes this.
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