"Jeffrey J. Kosowsky" wrote in message
...

I am looking for an easy-to-use but powerful PC program to help me
design and draw projects that I am interested in building such as
bookcases, cabinets, closet organizers, etc.

Even CAD pro's would like to find that program.


I want something that meets the following criteria:
1. Easy to learn for the non CAD professional, yet powerful enough
to draw what you want and with room to learn and grow

Do you have any formal drafting experience? If not, a CAD program is going
to have a steep learning curve.


2. Ability to visualize projects (preferably in 3D) including with
color, texture, shading so that I can get a real sense of how
it looks

Harder still.

3. Shortcuts for drawing standard things like dados, rabits,
dovetails, standard lumber sizes, standard screw and nail
sizes, etc.

More expensive.

4. Ability to generate parts list (preferable)

Still more expensive


5. Affordable ($100, preferably)

Probably not going to happen.


I know that there are a number of home design programs but those seem
to do too much and not really be good at woodworking projects.

These tend to be toy like compared to a program that you are thinking that
you want.

Basically you are looking for something like AutoCAD. A few thousand
dollars.

I use AutoCAD LT, Lists for about $800.00 and does no 3D or scheduling.