Take a look at some of the Sketchup training videos here and some Fusion 360 videos here. The good news is that both have countless free educational videos online and you should even be able to find videos on obscure, highly specific topics that you wouldn’t believe exist. How easy are each of the programs to learn?īoth software are widely regarded as easy to learn, however in my empirical observation I have noticed that Sketchup tends to be easier to learn for those with no 3D modeling experience, while those with at least moderate AutoCAD skills should be able to pick up Fusion 360 more quickly. If you would like to read my in depth article on using a CNC for woodworking, you can check it out here. Here’s a nice video introduction to the capabilities of CNC milling from Wood Magazine there are countless more, and you can go down a wormhole of more specific videos on various milling topics. In the unlikely event you’re a woodworker that hasn’t seen a CNC mill in action, I can say that it is an engrossing process. Others use 3D modeling to generate G-code (more on that later) to send to a computer numerical control (CNC) mill or a 3D printer. Some use the technology for testing ideas, visualizing products for clients, or figuring out how a certain detail will work before beginning work in a woodshop. What are the advantages of 3D modeling for woodworkers? As with every emerging technology, companies are competing for market share, and typically products find their niche based on their pros and cons. Woodworking has existed in various forms since ancient, prehistoric times, while 3D modeling has existed for mere decades, so we should have a little sympathy that our software overlords have not created the perfect “magic bullet” for 3D modeling.

Let’s take a look at how Google’s Sketchup compares to Autodesk’s Fusion 360.

Or even better, you’re just getting started with this topic in school or as a hobby and want to start down the right path. If you’re researching the best software for woodworking, I’m guessing you’re considering adding CNC milling to your skillset or switching the software you use to create 3D models. As someone who has spent his fair time in a wood shop and a digital fabrication lab, I can say working with wood is one of the most satisfying uses of time there is.

Sketchup free woodworking