Our Go-To Tools for Millwork Drafters
From CAD software to mark-up tools to training we trust—this is the good stuff.
Whether you're elbows-deep in millwork drafting or just getting started, this page is packed with the tools, tutorials, and time-savers we swear by.
Inside, you'll find our go-to software, underrated cost-cutting alternatives, YouTube channels that actually teach you something, and course links we recommend.
So you know: Some links are affiliate links—meaning we might earn a small commission if you decide to buy, at no extra cost to you. But we only recommend what we use, trust, or wish we’d found sooner.
Think of this as your digital toolbox. Explore. Learn. Build smarter.
The Software
AutoCADÂ is the trusted workhorse for 2D drafting, is powerful, precise, and designed for professionals.
If you’re doing shop drawings, chances are you’ll either be using AutoCAD or working from files created in it.
Yes, the learning curve is real. But once it clicks? It clicks. ($2095/yr or $260 paid monthly)
Looking for a budget-friendly version?
AutoCAD LT gives you the core drafting power at a much lower price—but with a few big trade-offs:
- No BURST command
- No MLINE
- No LISP, custom macros, or advanced automation
- No 3D modeling, Sheet Set Manager, or Express Tools
Still, for many drafters, LT is more than enough to get the job done. ($530/yr or $65 paid monthly)
AutoCAD Alternatives
Don’t want to shell out for AutoCAD just yet or just looking to save money in the future? Totally fair. These alternatives speak DWG, play nice with your files, and cost way less:
BricsCAD Lightweight, DWG-compatible, and feels like AutoCAD without the price tag. If you know AutoCAD, this one is a smooth transition. (Lite from $314/yr) (Pro from $711/yr)
ProgeCADÂ
DraftSight Solid 2D drafting tool with a familiar layout. Great for pros on a budget. (2011) (from $299-$599)
LibreCAD Open-source and totally free. Not flashy, but it works if you’re just getting started. (FREE)
NanoCADÂ Basic, clean, and surprisingly capable. Good for beginners or side projects. FREE version available, but it is not suitable for actual project, but could be a good way to learn before investing. (nanoCAD 24 from $249/yr) (Pro & Construction from $399/yr) (Max from $849/yr)
***We still use AutoCAD because it’s the industry default—but if you’re experimenting, these are excellent places to start.
Bluebeam Revu  https://www.bluebeam.com/trials/
We use Bluebeam to proofread and mark up PDFs—it’s basically a red pen on steroids. Clean interface, layered markups, and digital tools that feel like real-world reviewing. We use this for final proofing before a drawing goes out the door.Pricing: $260-$440/yr
Real Talk: We use Bluebeam because it makes our lives easier. I've tried other tools, but nothing else felt as powerful or as built-for-drafters. So yes, I’m biased—but for good reason.
However, there are money-saving options available:
PDF Studio https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio/ ($149/ Free Trail Available)
PDF-Xchange Editor https://www.pdf-xchange.com/products (from $62.00 to $131 lifetime with maintenance options available)
Asana Task management for brains that get overwhelmed. We keep all our drafting checklists, change requests, deadlines, and project progress in here. Think of it as a digital “Don’t Forget This” board—especially handy when multiple people are touching the same file.
Dropbox Cloud storage. Simple, clean, and perfect for keeping track of current projects, archived DWGs, and client folders. Bonus: Version history has saved our butts more than once.
Excel is where we manage the real-life stuff that supports those drawings. It is perfect for pricing, scope work, and material schedules.
The Training
UdemyÂ
For learning AutoCAD basics, this is a great start. https://www.udemy.com/share/1061We3@NEMoB9Whv4LNArDAdQR9m_doPqI1bRgl9nBKwmr3Ke82uMGbpTQIEH_d09BUnDrI7g==/
Excel will serve you very well as a millwork drafter if you know how to use it. This course is very helpful.   https://www.udemy.com/share/101Wde3@fr4IAj73_B10fKQXpgb3Ht_dqDhKzNLmWvHHRD1jrKLz09IVmTkekn7YQ26RRqPdkw==/
Running your own business requires your attention in many directions. A little course on Project Management can go a long way to put all the pieces together.  https://www.udemy.com/share/1013Io3@OcbJcGLpFdk9wbx75AnlFhX84hdtSqTvKtnGyvYFAabUj4Qevyr_qHMD-JzehE5z7Q==/
YouTube
Millwork Pros- Woodwork
Watching people expertly build the things we draw is great for skill building. This is a great channel for that. https://www.youtube.com/feed/subscriptions/UC96_IEm0Ts4bgYa-u1eYBOA
CAD Intentions
Brandon knows AutoCAD and shares tons of tips, tricks, and training. He is a civil designer, so no focus on millwork, but still a solid resource. https://www.youtube.com/@Cadintentions
AEC Workbench- Bluebeam Markups  Bluebeam Revu Training Markups and Editing Content https://www.youtube.com/@AECWorkbench
The Products
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