This journal entry is dedicated to my new favourite piece of software, Sketchup (www.sketchup.com). As an Industrial Designer (Architects will find this program even more useful), it always helps if I can create quick 3D visualisations of my concepts. Normally I do this with blue polystyrene foam, a hot wire cutter (melts the foam with a hot wire) and sandpaper (fine touches). However if I get an idea late at night, that sucks because I can't get to the workshop. Long story short, this program does "sketch-modelling" exceptionally well. Think of it as a barebones 3DStudio. I don't know if it can animate yet, but it is certainly capable of exporting to all the big CAD formats, which is also great. I built some cool futuristic skyscrapers just while I was messing around with the tools. I have to say, this program is fantastic. I highly recommend it to 3D Modellers/Concept artists/Designers/Architects/Planners, and anyone who likes to make stuff! Well worth the (relatively) modest price tag. Anyway I think you can get a demo, so even if you don't use CAD much, d/l it and have a shot, it's fun to play with!

Well that's my 2 copper, Oh, and no, I wasn't paid by anyone to say this.

And so ends my shameless plug.