- CADCraft is an open-source CAD and BIM toolset aimed at architects, engineers, and drafters.
- Browser access: use the early browser version today; macOS, Windows, and Linux desktop builds are planned.
- File formats: DWG and DXF sit at the core, with PDF and SVG export workflows.
- 8 apps: drafting, modeling, documentation, takeoff, civil design, detailing, markup, and parts.
- Automation: apps can be driven by scripts or AI agents for batch drafting tasks.
What Is CADCraft?
CADCraft is an open-source collection of CAD and BIM tools built for architects, engineers, drafters, estimators, and detail designers. The official website at getcadcraft.com currently presents a family of 8 applications, an early browser version you can try immediately, and planned desktop support for macOS, Windows, and Linux. The project's source code is maintained publicly on the official GitHub repository.
Some searches combine "CADCraft" with "rust" out of curiosity about the tech stack. The public materials for this project focus on its CAD/BIM capabilities and open-source status; treat the GitHub repository as the authoritative source for any implementation details.
Application Family Overview
| App Direction | Primary Use | Typical User |
|---|---|---|
| 2D Drafting | Creating and editing technical drawings | Drafters, architects |
| Modeling | Building geometry beyond flat plans | Designers, engineers |
| Documentation | Annotations, dimensions, sheets | Documentation teams |
| Takeoff | Quantity and material estimation | Estimators |
| Civil Design | Civil and site-oriented workflows | Civil engineers |
| Detailing | Component and connection details | Detail designers |
| Markup | Reviewing and marking up drawings | Reviewers, stakeholders |
| Parts | Parts and component management | Fabricators, manufacturers |
The browser-based CADCraft 2D drafting app (app page) is positioned as the core of the family, built around a command-line-driven workflow familiar to experienced CAD users.
Core Features and Drafting Capabilities
CADCraft's feature set is organized around practical 2D drafting and documentation. Rather than chasing every advanced modeling function, it focuses on the workflows drafters repeat every day.
2D Drafting
- Line-based geometry construction
- Command and alias entry
- Interactive point selection
- Basic geometric construction
Organization
- Layers for separating content
- Linetypes and lineweights
- Blocks for reusable symbols
- Layouts for sheet presentation
Output
- Scaled printing preparation
- Layout-based composition
- PDF and SVG export
- Documentation-ready styling
Command Reference
| Command | Alias | Category | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Line | L | Drawing | Creates straight segments between points |
| Circle | C | Drawing | Creates circles from center and radius |
| Trim | TR | Modify | Removes geometry at selected boundaries |
| Extend | EX | Modify | Extends geometry to a boundary |
| Offset | O | Modify | Creates parallel or concentric copies |
| Move | M | Modify | Repositions objects by base point |
| Copy | CO | Modify | Duplicates selected objects |
| Layer | Layer tools | Layers | Organizes geometry into named layers |
| Dimension | Dimension tools | Annotation | Adds measurements to drawings |
The command aliases mirror the conventions experienced CAD users already know. If you come from a command-driven drafting background, start with L, C, TR, EX, O, M, and CO to cover most day-to-day editing.
DWG, DXF, and File Format Support
File compatibility is the most common question for anyone considering a new CAD tool. CADCraft supports a file-oriented workflow built around the standard CAD exchange formats.
| Format | Type | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| DWG | CAD drawing format | Working with existing CAD drawings and structured 2D content |
| DXF | CAD exchange format | Interoperability between compatible applications |
| Document/print format | Review, delivery, and printed output | |
| SVG | Scalable vector format | Vector-based use in design tools |
| Browser workflow | Application workflow | Open, edit, save, and export without a desktop install |
When working in the browser, review the active file operation before closing the session. Export a copy of your edited result rather than treating the original upload as the final deliverable.
From Existing Drawing to Exported Copy
Import an Existing Drawing
Bring a DWG or DXF drawing into CADCraft when you need to review, revise, or continue work started elsewhere.
Review and Modify
Inspect geometry, then apply changes using the drawing and editing commands, keeping the original file separate from the edited result.
Manage Layers and Layouts
Organize content into layers and maintain layouts so the drawing stays readable and presentation-ready.
Export a Separate Copy
Download or export the revised work as a copy for sharing, archiving, or the next stage of your process.
Access: Browser Today, Desktop Later
CADCraft clearly separates what is available now from what is still in development.
| Stage | Status | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| Browser version | Available now | Immediate access without installing anything |
| Desktop edition | In development | A complementary native application experience |
| Early access | Qualification may apply | Selected capabilities before broader release |
| Platform support | Planned | macOS, Windows, and Linux as the family grows |
First Session Goals:
- Open CADCraft in the browser from the official site
- Identify the canvas, command line, and tool controls
- Complete a simple drawing with Line and Circle
- Edit it with Trim, Offset, Move, and Copy
- Organize geometry on layers and export a copy
Automation and the AutoCAD-Familiar Workflow
Two directions distinguish CADCraft from other lightweight CAD tools: automation and approachability.
Automation Direction
The official site highlights that CADCraft applications can be driven through scripts or AI agents. This opens possibilities for batch drafting, automated drawing cleanup, and scripted command execution — a natural fit for teams processing repetitive drawing tasks.
Coming From AutoCAD
Command-Line Workflow
- Keyboard-driven operation
- Commands entered with options and prompts
- Repeatable, efficient interaction without toolbars
Familiar Concepts
- Aliases reduce repetitive navigation
- Layers and layouts match established CAD habits
- Shorter learning curve for experienced drafters
CADCraft is an independent application. Familiarity with AutoCAD helps you get started, but CADCraft is not affiliated with or made by Autodesk, and should be evaluated on its own merits.
Community discussion currently centers on the GitHub repository and threads such as the r/Drafting first look at CADCraft. For official help, use the CADCraft support page.
FAQ
Q: Is CADCraft free and open source?
Yes. CADCraft is presented as an open-source CAD and BIM project, with its code maintained publicly on GitHub. The browser version is available through the official website without a traditional desktop installation.
Q: Can CADCraft open DWG and DXF files?
Yes. DWG and DXF are the key file formats in CADCraft's workflow. You can open existing drawings, edit them, and export results, with PDF and SVG also supported for documentation and vector output.
Q: Do I need to install anything to use CADCraft?
No installation is required for the current browser version. Desktop applications for macOS, Windows, and Linux are planned as part of the roadmap, with early-access opportunities for eligible users.
Q: Is CADCraft related to AutoCAD?
No. CADCraft is an independent application. Its command-line workflow, aliases, layers, and layouts feel familiar to AutoCAD users, but it is a separate product developed by its own team.