I have been using a free CAD program for designing for a while now. The program is QCAD and its free. I use Linux instead of Windows, but I think there is a Windows version as well. So what does this have to do with rod building.

I use it to design my Cross Wrap patterns. It is a great way to check our the color combinations and thread sequence.

Just thought it might be something you all might be interested in.

I'd post some images of my designs, but don't know how to upload photos to the board.

John

I'm in the sign business and use my sign progam and Coreldraw both CAD to design my rods, as well, works perfectly.

Mike,

Ok. I haven't used Corel Draw since it was a DOS application. I use a color search program I got with my copy of @#$%&. I pull the image I want to use, find the thread that matches the colors and use those colors in my cad. When I'm done I just have to order any thread I need. Hence the reason I like Madeira. So many colors. I have also been considered testing Royal as well. I am just a little concerned about the chemicals they put in the threads to make them work with embroidery machines.

But back to the original, yes I actually learned how to do Tartan, and the different X wraps by playing with the cad. Once I have what I want its a simple task to just print the image and wrap the rod.

John