Computer-aided design (CAD) refers to the process of designing objects intended for fabrication using design software on the computer. There is overlap between CAD and graphic design, which is a broader area of study and not specific to making things. For that reason, we will assume you are interested in designing real-world objects intended to be fabricated.
While not strictly necessary for CAD, learning how to work with computer graphics comes is an essential skill for documenting your work and other aspects of life in the digital age.
Computer-assisted design has been with us for as long as desktop computers. Designing objects using software offers many advantages, some of which you will learn throughout this website, and so people took to developing better tools for designing accurate parts.
Architects
Engineers. many disciplines of engineering require the use of CAD to design, prototype and develop projects.
Product Designers
Artists
MakerCase — a parametric design program to generate press-fit box designs.
Using design software is an essential part of digital fabrication. You will likely spend 80% of your time working in some design software program, so it is an important part of the process. There are different categories of software that I will organize here.
Inkscape (free) - a free vector design program that we will use heavily.
Adobe Illustrator ($$) - commercial vector design program that we will use occasionally. You do not need to use this (only if you already have it/use it).