TurboCAD Pro V18.2 - Interior Architectural Setting

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From the Introduction:

One of the fundamental tenets of any CAD package is to never draw the same thing twice. This is very sound advice and a user would be wise to broaden this tenet to its fullest definition. This not only includes using blocks and symbols while drawing but it includes devising ways to approach the more mundane things such as repeating text and establishing tool properties or styles. One way to address much of this is to create a drawing template where many properties have been pre-established and which includes at least one paper space page that has a reusable title block.

Within the tutorial the reader will be led through each keystroke to produce a reusable TurboCAD template and the title block that is illustrated on the cover of the tutorial. The reader will find much discussion within the pages of this tutorial that will hopefully provide good insight into choices that are made.

View Sample Pages 10 pages 1 MB PDF file

Unlike other Textual Creations TurboCAD tutorials, this tutorial makes use of a design process more likely to be seen in programs such as Solid Works and Alibre.  That is, a parts and assembly approach, where all parts are created in separate files and then assembled in one assembly file. In TurboCAD, this process can be accomplished using external references. 

Although using X-Refs in this tutorial will be one of the major focuses, there are many additional processes that will be discussed that all TurboCAD users, no matter what approach they use, will find of great benefit.

Within the tutorial the reader will be led through each keystroke to produce all components of the speaker that is illustrated on the cover of the tutorial, with the exception of the crossover which has been supplied. The reader will also learn how to set up their drawing and save it as a template. The user will learn how to insert standard lighting and how utilize render scene luminance. The reader will learn how to establish a render scene environment and the reader will learn how to render their drawing and save it in a high resolution image format. The user will learn how to create a cutaway view and the user will learn how to use paper space to create a single page paper presentation using inserted viewports and images.

View Sample Pages  20 pages 3.66 MB PDF file

From the Introduction:

Without a doubt, one of the larger fields where CAD software is employed regularly is within the architectural industry and its myriad faces. As such, any means to make the process of architectural presentation quicker and easier is most certainly welcome. With such thinking driving the development of TurboCAD, this awesome program continues to evolve and provide users a formidable way to achieve pleasing and functional plans and renderings in a very timely and professional manner.

TurboCAD Pro V17.2 - Architectural Presentation is a fully illustrated tutorial that leads the beginner through every keystroke necessary to transform IMSI/Design's 2D Marion floor plan into the fully detailed 3D model presented on the cover of this tutorial. The furnishings are not created during the tutorial, but they are supplied and inserted into the house during the tutorial.  This tutorial was originally written for TurboCAD version 11 and then revised for version 15 and due to its popularity it has now been fully revised for version 17.2, integrating new program processes and some new design ideas.

Also within the tutorial, the reader will learn how to set up their drawing, how to insert standard lighting and how utilize render scene luminance. The reader will learn how to establish a render scene environment and the reader will learn how to render their drawing and save it in a high resolution image format. Three different views will be established and one paper space page will be created.

View Sample Pages  27 pages 6.11 MB PDF file

From the Introduction:

During the author's tenure with TurboCAD much delight has been found creating a variety of printed pages for enumerable projects. This has included a variety of building plans, shop drawings, patent illustrations, plus a whole host of diagrams and graphics in a wide variety of fields. Ever since the advent of the Drafting Palette the job of drafting has become so much more efficient and more pleasing.

Within the tutorial the reader will be led through each keystroke to produce all components of the industrial shock that is illustrated on the cover of the tutorial. The reader will learn how to set up their drawing, how to insert standard lighting and how utilize render scene luminance. The reader will learn how to establish a render scene environment and the reader will learn how to render their drawing and save it in a high resolution image format. The user will also learn how to use paper space by first creating a title block and then utilizing viewports and Drafting palette objects to create a four page presentation.

View Sample Pages  22 pages 3.94MB PDF file

From the Introduction:

What better way to explore TurboCAD than by creating a cool model of an electric motor. It has many interesting parts that require some forethought before construction, but are easily managed within TurboCAD.

Within the tutorial the reader will be led through each keystroke to produce all components of the electric motor that is illustrated on the cover of the tutorial (except the centrifugal switch and some screws which are supplied to save on tutorial time). The reader will learn how to set up their drawing, how to insert standard lighting and how utilize render scene luminance. The reader will learn how to establish a render scene environment and the reader will learn how to render their drawing and save it in a high resolution image format. The user will learn how to create an exploded view of the electric motor and the user will learn how to use paper space to create a single page paper presentation with a saved render and an inserted viewport.

View Sample Pages  22 pages 3.6MB PDF file

From the Introduction:

I had been surfing the internet one day looking for tutorial inspiration when I came across a house cutaway that I just loved. I knew immediately that this was the route I wanted to go to showcase many of the TurboCAD architecture tools that exist. I made contact via email and asked if those behind the creation minded if I based my new tutorial on their idea. Matt Jennings replied that he was pleased that I liked his illustration and said that he was okay with basing the tutorial on it. Thanks Matt!

I hope that you enjoy the tutorial.

Best regards,
Don

More and more, architects, builders and interior designers are being forced to compete in the industry by supplying top notch architectural visuals in a timely and cost effective manner. Luckily, CAD software designers such as IMSI/Design are aware of these needs and have stepped up to the plate to create a package that addresses these needs - all the while keeping in mind the budget conscious, ease of use and, of course, quality of output.

TurboCAD Pro V17 (Platinum Edition) has kept up with the tradition of introducing additional architectural features, this time most notably with the addition of window muttons. Within this tutorial the new user will be introduce to many of the new and existing architectural tools and functions in a manner that should prove most enjoyable.

View Sample Pages  23 pages 2.64MB PDF file

From the Introduction:

One area where new users find difficulties is with the placement of 3D pipes and wires, which sometimes meander all over 3D space. As difficult as this can sometimes seem, it is definitely possible to achieve the desired results in TurboCAD with a bit of planning and, of course, using the right techniques. 

Within the tutorial the reader will be led through each keystroke to produce all components of the piping/filtration system that is illustrated on the cover of the tutorial. The reader will learn how to create each object by converting 2D profiles into 3D shapes or refining 3D primitive shapes. The reader will learn how to set up their drawing, how to insert standard lighting and how utilize render scene luminance. The reader will learn how to establish a render scene environment and the reader will learn how to render their drawing and save it in a high resolution image format. The user will also learn how to use paper space to create a three page paper presentation.

View Sample Pages  20 pages 2.46MB PDF file

From the Introduction:

There are times when a TurboCAD user will encounter projects that will seriously tax the workings of their program if it is not approached with some forethought. Throughout 2009 I had the opportunity to create 100+ graphic illustrations for a major player in the merchandiser door business.  These included fridges, freezers and deli cases found in grocery stores, pop coolers and vending machines found in every imaginable place, as well as viewports found in walk-in cooler doors.

In the beginning I chose to create every extrusion in full detail since I knew that I would need each object for a variety of reasons. After about a half day of work I realized that I was going to be in trouble if I didn't find a better approach to the job. I did find a better approach and I will explain within the tutorial the processes I discovered and used to accomplish this task in a more effective and less stressful manner.

I hope that you will enjoy the tutorial.

Best regards,
Don

Within the tutorial the reader will be led through each keystroke to produce all components of the window graphics that are illustrated on the cover of the tutorial. The reader will learn how to create each object by converting 2D profiles into 3D shapes. The reader will learn how to set up their drawing, how to insert standard lighting and how utilize render scene luminance. The reader will learn how to establish a render scene environment and the reader will learn how to render their drawing and save it in a high resolution image format. The user will also learn how to use paper space to create a pleasing graphic illustration. Additionally, the reader will be offered the option of finalizing their graphics with Photoshop.

View Sample Pages  20 pages 6MB PDF file

Drafting table is for illustration purposes only - it is not created during the tutorial.

From the Introduction:

One of the fundamental concepts in TurboCAD, when it comes to drawing in 3D, is the use and understanding of workplanes. Most new users are initially overwhelmed by this concept, but once the user puzzles out what workplanes are all about they quickly realize that they weren't that complex after all.

Each workplane tool, complete with a user-friendly explanation and example will be illustrated within this tutorial and this will be done by having the reader work through various examples keystroke by keystroke. By the time the reader reaches the end of this tutorial any confusion about workplanes should have lessened significantly.

View Sample Pages  15 pages 5.34MB PDF file

From the Introduction:

Where would new CAD users be without all the interesting objects that can be found in the world of railroading? Most of these objects are excellent subjects to practice drawing with, and with so many free resources available online the whole process is made quite easy. Although the handcar design in this tutorial is based roughly on resources discovered on the internet, the author has made many changes to make it better suited to this tutorial.

Within the tutorial the reader will be led through each keystroke to produce all components of the railroad handcar that is illustrated on the cover of the tutorial. The reader will learn how to create each object by manipulating 2D profiles and 3D primitive shapes. The reader will learn how to set up their drawing, how to insert standard lighting and how utilize render scene luminance. The reader will learn how to establish a render scene environment and the reader will learn how to render their drawing and save it in a high resolution image format.

View Sample Pages  20 pages 2.69MB PDF file

From the Introduction:

A large user focus of any CAD software is ultimately the architectural / construction field. Whether a user is designing a cabin, a house, or other unnamed structure a user must feel that they can depend fully on the CAD software that they purchased - that it will meet their needs in a timely and hassle free manner. It is the author's belief that TurboCAD can and will meet the needs of most builders without too much trouble, once over the initial learning curve that is part of any software package.

Within this very comprehensive tutorial the reader will be led through each keystroke to produce all components of the timber frame barn that is illustrated on the cover of the tutorial. The reader will learn how to create each object by manipulating 2D profiles and 3D primitive shapes. The reader will learn how to set up their drawing, how to insert standard lighting and how utilize render scene luminance. The reader will learn how to establish a render scene environment and the reader will learn how to render their drawing and save it in a high resolution image format. Additionally the reader will be led through the steps to create a title block and a six page paper space presentation.

View Sample Pages  25 pages 6.78MB PDF file

View the 6 paper space pages that are created in the tutorial

From the Introduction:

There is something romantic about the Caboose. It conjures up all kinds of feeling about the past, about solitude and life on the rails. Many folks have a fascination with railroading and the author is no exception, so a tutorial to create such a thing seemed the perfect way to introduce new users to TurboCAD.

An HO scale wide vision Caboose, purchased from the local hobby store, will be used as the basis of the tutorial. The reader is not required to purchase one, as the author will measure and provide the required dimensions.

Within this very comprehensive tutorial the reader will be led through each keystroke to produce all components of the caboose and track that is illustrated on the cover of the tutorial. The reader will learn how to create each object by manipulating 2D profiles and 3D primitive shapes. The reader will learn how to set up their drawing, how to insert standard lighting and how utilize render scene luminance. The reader will learn how to establish a render scene environment and the reader will learn how to render their drawing and save it in a high resolution image format.

View Sample Pages  25 pages 6.78MB PDF file

From the Introduction:

I often visit the galleries of other CAD and 3D modeling software to see what its users are capable of producing. Quite often I marvel at what I see and feel a bit dejected knowing full well that these things cannot be produced in TurboCAD no matter how much I wish it were so. Other times I smile and know without a double that TurboCAD can do much better, and at a fraction of the cost. Just prior to writing this tutorial I came across a compact fluorescent in the Rhino gallery and although I knew that I could produce a better looking presentation I was unsure how well TurboCAD would manage the upper spiral portion. The only way to know for sure was to try and although it took me several tries to find a reliable and repeatable process I was quite pleased with the end result. Although the successful process will be the one used within the tutorial, I nevertheless discuss the other methods that I tried while researching the tutorial so that the reader is made aware that all kinds of options are available to the TurboCAD user.

I hope that you find the tutorial enjoyable and beneficial.

Best regards,
Don

Within the tutorial the reader will be led through each keystroke to produce all components of the compact fluorescent and the banker's lamp that is illustrated on the cover of the tutorial. The reader will learn how to create each object by manipulating 2D profiles and 3D primitive shapes. The reader will lear how to set up their drawing, how to insert standard lighting and how utilize render scene luminance. The reader will learn how to establish a render scene environment and the reader will learn how to render their drawing and save it in a high resolution image format.

View Sample Pages  18 pages 4.47MB PDF file

From the Introduction:

A water tower tutorial was one of the very first tutorials that I penned back in the days of TurboCAD 9.5. It was a very popular tutorial at the time and requests have been received over the years to revive it. I have obliged these requests by devising this new and improved water tower tutorial. It is definitely not the same water tower tutorial that was previously released. It is a totally new design that utilizes many of the new processes that I have learned over the years and, of course, it uses new tools here and there that were not present in the days of 9.5. I think it is a great new tutorial and I hope that you will enjoy following along.

Best regards,
Don

Within the tutorial the reader will be led through each keystroke to produce all components of the water tower that is illustrated on the cover of the tutorial. The reader will learn how to insert standard lighting and how utilize render scene luminance. The reader will learn how to establish a render scene environment and the reader will learn how to render their drawing and save it in a high resolution image format.

View Sample Pages  20 pages 5.89MB PDF file

From the Introduction:

Mechanical design and illustration is truly one of my favorite areas when it comes to CAD and graphics works. It is an area that I never tire of investigating and an area where I am always awed by the ingenuity of people. I found much pleasure researching and writing TurboCAD Pro V16.1 - Tri-Lobe Blower and hope that you will enjoy the magic of TurboCAD as you work your way through the tutorial.

Best regards,
Don

The tri-lobe blower design and dimensions are based on some web research and some imagination on the part of the author. Within the tutorial the reader will be led through each keystroke to produce all components of the blower that is illustrated on the cover of the tutorial. The reader will learn how to insert standard lighting and how utilize render scene luminance. The reader will learn how to establish a render scene environment and the reader will learn how to render their drawing and save it in a high resolution image format. Additionally, the reader will learn how to create a legal size (8.5 x 14) title block and a two page paper space presentation using viewports, dimensions and annotations.

View Sample Pages  22 pages 3.12MB PDF file

From the Introduction:

Product presentations are an excellent way to inform prospective clients or customers about new or existing wares. Done right, they can draw the viewer in and excite them in ways that plain text simply can't achieve. The product poster does not have to say it all, but it has to say enough to perk interest and inform the viewer where these wares can be found.

Within the tutorial the reader will create a number of files which will culminate in the creation of the poster illustrated on the cover of the tutorial. Within the tutorial the reader will be led through each keystroke to produce all components of the spark plug and product tin. The reader will learn how to insert standard lighting and how utilize render scene luminance. The reader will learn how to render their drawing and save it in a high resolution image format. The reader will also learn how to create the final poster within TurboCAD paper space. Additionally, the reader will have the option to learn how to achieve enhanced results using Photoshop, due to the ability to use drop shadows and top notch text tools offered there.

View Sample Pages  20 pages 3.41MB PDF file

From the Introduction:

Framing is a key component when it comes to home construction and a good framing plan will help ensure a proper build. Working through the tutorial the reader will be exposed to many processes that will allow the creation of a two story structure - a 24' x 28' garage with second floor studio.

Within the tutorial the reader will be led through each keystroke to produce all components of the framed structure that is illustrated on the cover of the tutorial. The reader will learn how to insert standard lighting and how utilize render scene luminance. The reader will learn how to render their drawing and save it in a high resolution image format. Additionally, the reader will learn how to create a legal size (8.5 x 14) title block and a two page paper space presentation using viewports, dimensions and annotations.

View Sample Pages  22 pages 3.00MB PDF file

From the Introduction:

TurboCAD Pro is excellent software for woodworkers. Designs can be worked out quickly and efficiently and plans developed in a relatively short period of time. Realistic renders can be created to preview the design which prospective clients will marvel at and manufactures will appreciate.

Within the tutorial the reader will be led through each keystroke to produce the dresser that is illustrated on the cover of the tutorial. The reader will learn how to create the dresser using a 2D layout that is transformed into a 3D construct. The reader will learn how to insert standard lighting, how to use luminance lighting and how to save their rendered drawing in a high resolution image format. Additionally, the reader will learn how to use Paper Space to create an 8.5 x 14 title block along with a two page presentation with viewports, dimensions and annotations.

View Sample Pages  22 pages 2.49MB PDF file

From the Introduction:

I can attest to the fact that TurboCAD Pro is a viable solution when it comes to getting our designs to manufactures for production. Although most manufactures do not use TurboCAD in their process they do use other formats that TurboCAD can export to when electronic CAD files (drawings) and/or 3D models are required. When file export will be required a user must give careful consideration to the whole drawing process to minimize translation issues.

Occasionally, some overseas manufactures require only product drawings printed to PDF format. They simply build from the provided drawings or recreate the drawings with their own software based on the supplied data. The processes used for drawing in this case (and I am not talking about precision here, but rather tool usage) are far less critical since no consideration need be given to what text is used, whether or not someone else's format will be able to view TurboCAD's viewports and drafting palette objects correctly or whether the assembly needs to be exploded down to its constituent parts.

While constructing the grommet illustrated on the cover of this tutorial I will attempt to address some of the issues that I have come upon while venturing into the world of manufacture. I have chosen the grommet as it is a fairly simple construct that can be created in 3D quite quickly, so that much time can be spent in paper space creating a title block and the required drawings.

I would like to mention that I am not a formally trained draftsman. As such, I am not familiar with standard drawing conventions so the layout I use within the tutorial may not conform to industry standards. I can state, however, that I have not had any complaints to date with any of the drawing that I have supplied to the world of manufacture.

I hope that you enjoy the tutorial.

Best wishes,
Don Cheke

View Sample Pages  17 pages 2.17MB PDF file

From the Introduction:

TurboCAD Pro is, without a doubt, a high end tool that can be employed to bring business owners, within innumerable fields, into the new millennium when it comes to product visuals.  TurboCAD cannot only deliver the goods, but it can do so in ten decimal point precision.

TurboCAD Pro V16 - Globe Valve is a tutorial designed to take a seemingly mundane object to the next level of visuals. Within the tutorial the reader will be lead through each keystroke to produce every component of the globe valve that is illustrated on the cover of the tutorial. The reader will learn how to create the globe valve using 2D profiles and modified 3D shapes. The reader will learn how to insert standard lighting and how to utilize image based lighting in a render scene environment. The reader will also learn how to establish Render Scene Luminance and how to render and save their drawing in a high resolution image format. Additionally, the reader will learn how to use Paper Space to create a pleasant single page presentation with viewports, a drafting palette insert, an inserted image and annotations.

View Sample Pages  20 pages 2.6MB PDF file

From the Introduction:

I am very pleased to present my first TurboCAD Pro tutorial for version 16. TurboCAD Pro V16 - Trade Show Booth is based in a field that I have spent considerable time with over the past few years. I have always found creating the virtual booths, and many of the graphics that are used within the real world booths, to be a most enjoyable activity. Each booth provides much opportunity to hone my drawing skills and my image wrapping techniques. Because image wrapping is a technique that often overwhelms new users I thought that creating a booth would be the perfect way to illustrate some of these techniques.

I hope that you will enjoy creating the trade show booth as much as I did while planning and writing the tutorial.

Best regards,
Don

Within the tutorial the reader will be lead through each keystroke to produce almost every component of the booth that is illustrated on the cover of the tutorial. The table and chairs are provided by the author and are inserted into the drawing in a manner that one might do if they were getting parts from an associate or from an online vendor. The reader will learn how to create the remainder of the components using 2D profiles and modified 3D primitive shapes. The reader will learn how to insert standard lighting and how to utilize a render scene environment. The reader will learn how to render their drawing and save it in a high resolution image format. Additionally, the reader will learn how to use Paper Space to create a pleasant single page presentation.

View Sample Pages  22 pages 3.42MB PDF file

From the Introduction:

It is a fact that a TurboCAD user will occasionally find a need to create a model that challenges the program and the user. The program, because only so much memory is allowed per application (~1.6GB using Microsoft XP) and TurboCAD can hit that wall without too much trouble. The user, because they are faced with the challenge of creating the parts in a manner that is file size friendly while being visually appealing at the same time.

With only a couple dozen parts, and most of them blocks, it may come as a surprise to the reader that creating a two page layout of the railcar truck does not come without issues. The issues arise due to the complex nature of some of the parts. This includes such things as the load springs, the side frames, the bolster and even the wheels with their rounded edges. Although the reader will be exposed to these issues, the author does lead the reader through alternate methods and/or fixes that do allow the project to be completed in a pleasing manner. Ideas are also offered about what to do when the program simply can't deliver what the user requires.

The railcar truck is an interesting industrial product and one that provides an ideal modeling challenge. It presents some interesting shapes that require some forethought and planning. Within the tutorial the reader will be lead through each keystroke to produce almost every component of the railcar truck that is illustrated on the cover of the tutorial. The brakes, side bearings and bowl liner are provided by the author and are inserted into the drawing in a manner that one might do if they were getting parts from an associate or from an online vendor. The reader will learn how to create the various components using 2D profiles and modified 3D primitive shapes. The reader will learn how to insert standard lighting and how to utilize render scene luminance. The reader will learn how to render their drawing and save it in a high resolution image format. Additionally, the reader will learn how to use Paper Space to create a two page presentation.

View Sample Pages  21 pages 1.38MB PDF file

From the Introduction:

For years I have had a strong desire to create a 'truck' with a somewhat realistic body using TurboCAD. I had always assumed that it would entail lofting profiles but it turns out that this was not case for the tracked transport. The tracked transport was a real blast to create and I hope that you will enjoy working through the tutorial as much as I did writing it. There are a number of cool processes involved and it should prove interesting even to those who have had the opportunity to run through many of my other tutorials.

Best regards,
Don

Within the tutorial the reader will be lead through each keystroke to produce every component of the tracked transport that is illustrated on the cover of the tutorial. The reader will learn how to create all the components using 2D profiles and modified 3D primitive shapes. The reader will learn how to insert standard lighting and how utilize render scene luminance. Additionally, the reader will learn how to render their drawing and save it in a high resolution image format.

View Sample Pages  20 pages 1.86MB PDF file

From the Introduction:

Lofting profiles in TurboCAD to create organic shapes is usually the route taken to create such things as airplanes, boats and cars. Since TurboCAD is not a NURBS (non-uniform rational B-spline) based 3D modeling package it is not always easy to get the desired results and occasionally a user must live with a lesser degree of precision. Be that as it may, these organic shapes can be created in TurboCAD with some planning, some experimentation and a strong desire to make it happen.

The airliner in this tutorial will be approached more like one would proceed with a 3D modeling program than one might with precision CAD software, as has been seen in virtually all previous Textual Creations tutorials. Much of the detail will be created by 'tracing' strategically positioned and scaled airliner images. As such, a reader may find that the input data listed within the tutorial may not be exactly as what is seen on screen. This does not mean that the tutorial cannot be followed, but the reader must be aware that this is the case and that they must use their data in place of what is written in the tutorial. This will become clearer as the tutorial progresses and it is not something that should cause any grief.

Within the tutorial the reader will be lead through each keystroke to produce every component of the airliner that is illustrated on the cover of the tutorial. The reader will learn how to create all the components using 2D profiles and modified 3D primitive shapes. The reader will learn how to insert standard lighting, how utilize render scene luminance and render scene environment. Additionally, the reader will learn how to render their drawing and save it in a high resolution image format.

View Sample Pages  20 pages 1.85MB PDF file

From the Introduction:

I have wanted to create a tutorial for a radial engine for eons but always felt a bit intimidated by the idea. However, like any good modeler, I decided to face the challenge and see what I could come up with. To my surprise and pleasure, the task was not terribly difficult in the end. It just required some forethought, a bit of time spent researching and the drive to make it happen, which I already have in spades, as the saying goes. Although I based the radial engine on some internet photos I found while researching, much of the model was made up as I experimented with the design.

I hope that you will enjoy following the tutorial and will feel the magic of TurboCAD that I feel every time I create something with the program.

Best regards,
Don

Within the tutorial the reader will be lead through each keystroke to produce every component of the radial engine that is illustrated on the cover of the tutorial. The reader will learn how to create all the components using 2D profiles and modified 3D primitive shapes. The reader will learn how to insert standard lighting, how utilize render scene luminance and render scene environment. Additionally, the reader will learn how to render their drawing and save it in a high resolution image format.

View Sample Pages  22 pages 2.08MB PDF file

From the Introduction:

Time once again for a mechanical TurboCAD tutorial and what better than a very interesting piece of machinery. The cardboard baler, a staple in the back rooms of many retail outlets such as Safeway, have been in use for more years than most people would imagine - leading the way in recycling long before it was a popular notion.

Within the tutorial the reader will be lead through every keystroke to produce every component of the cardboard baler that is illustrated on the cover of the tutorial. The reader will learn how to create all the elements using 2D profiles and modified 3D primitive shapes. The reader will learn how to insert standard lighting and how utilize render scene luminance and a render scene environment. Additionally, the reader will learn how to render their drawing and save it in a high resolution image format. Finally, the reader will learn how to utilize paper space where a drawing sheet will be created utilizing viewports and annotations.

View Sample Pages  22 pages 1.78MB PDF file

From the Introduction:

Not so long ago there was a short discussion about multistory building construction on the TurboCAD User Conference Forum. Although the discussion was short it reminded me of how many times over the last few years that I have thought about creating such a thing. After doing a bit of internet research and finding a bit of usable data I decided that I would not just create a multistory building, I would create a tutorial illustrating the steps to do so. With the initial excitement mounting I quickly set pen to paper and produced the work below. I hope that you will enjoy working through the tutorial as much as I did writing it.

Best regards,
Don

There are many approaches that can be used to create a multistory building in TurboCAD and more often than not, the intended purpose will dictate the approach. Will the entire structure be created, I-beams and all, or will an overall exterior view be sufficient? Are the drawings required for building purposes, or are the drawings and renderings required for a sales brochure? Since creating the structure, I-beams and all would be far too intense to fit within a reasonably sized tutorial this tutorial will concentrate on the exterior view.

Although this tutorial will approach construction with one main approach, alternatives will be mentioned along the way, briefly describing why one method may prove better than another in specific situations.

Overall, the reader will be lead through every keystroke to produce the multistory building that is illustrated on the cover of the tutorial. The reader will learn how to create all the elements used within the design using 2D profiles and 3D primitive shapes. The reader will learn how to insert standard lighting and how utilize render scene luminance. Additionally, the reader will learn how to render their drawing and save it in a high resolution image format. Finally, the reader will learn how to utilize paper space where drawing sheets will be created utilizing viewports and annotations. An optional section has been included to lead the reader through a couple final render image edits using Paint Shop Pro X2 or Photoshop CS3.

View Sample Pages  22 pages 2.39MB PDF file

From the Introduction:

Garden and landscape design are topics that are occasionally addressed on the TurboCAD User Conference Forum. It is a little disheartening that those seeking advice are often directed to other programs that have been created specifically for this type of work. Perhaps this is even sound advice if a user is planning on doing garden and landscape design on a full time basis. However, for an occasional design in this particular genre TurboCAD will work just fine. In fact, it is the opinion of the author that TurboCAD would be a great choice providing a user takes time to create a library of landscape and design symbols to help with a speedier creation.

Within this tutorial the reader will be lead through every keystroke to produce the back yard design that is illustrated on the cover of the tutorial. The reader will learn how to create almost all the elements used within the design using 2D profiles and 3D primitive shapes. The reader will learn how to insert free 3D plants found on the internet and a 3D bench created and supplied by the author. The reader will learn how to insert standard lighting and how to use a render scene environment and render scene luminance. The reader will learn how to render their drawing and save it in a high resolution image format. The reader will also learn how to utilize paper space where a final plan layout will be created utilizing viewports and annotations.

View Sample Pages  23 pages 6.62MB PDF file

From the Introduction:

Images that are created with the intent to share information in graphic format are called Information Graphics or Infographics, for short. Perhaps it is not so well known that TurboCAD can be used to produce such graphics without the need for additional illustration software.

While researching this genre of illustration the author came across the work of Stef Bayley and Phil Holmes. Stef and Phil's space elevator infographic illustration is a great example and it will be used as the general basis for the inforgraphic that will be created in the tutorial.

It is generally recommended to draw at full scale in TurboCAD so that when dimensioning is addressed there will be no size issues. Scaled drawings can be created utilizing viewports in paper space and associative dimensions. The author has always employed this practice in all previous tutorials but has chosen not to do so in this tutorial for two reasons. First off, to show that a user can 'sketch' out ideas, if need be and secondly, because real world dimensions were not available. On top of that it is perhaps impractical in this case, due to the disproportional effect that is being worked toward in the inforgraphic.

During the tutorial, the reader will learn how to create all the components of the illustration on the cover of the tutorial, with the exception of the off-shore anchor platform, which is supplied and will be inserted during the tutorial. The reader will learn how to insert lighting and how to use a render scene environment and insert render scene luminance. The reader will learn how to render their drawing and save it in a high resolution image format. The reader will also learn how to utilize paper space where the final illustration will be created utilizing an inserted image (the saved render image), viewports and annotations. The tutorial will illustrate all of these processes with each keystroke.

 View Sample Pages  18 pages 2.18MB PDF file

TurboCAD Pro 15.1 - Technical Illustration

From the Introduction:

View Sample Pages  23 pages 2.57MB PDF file

TurboCAD Pro 15.1 - Modern Desk
- 2D Concept to Blueprint Presentation -

From the Introduction:

This tutorial was originally written for TurboCAD Pro V11.2 but it has been fully revised, expanded upon and modified for use with TurboCAD Pro V15.1.

Many requests have been made of the author to create a tutorial that would lead a woodworker through all the stages of a modern furniture design project. It was hoped that the tutorial would show how to use the program in such a way that a two-dimensional concept could be turned into a three dimensional model for client presentation and that shop drawings could be created from the 2D and 3D drawings.

Although this tutorial is intended only to help the beginner establish some TurboCAD design and drawing skills the plans created within this tutorial are indeed functional. The author recommends double checking all elements of the plan before construction begins and that adjustments be made to the dimensions to accommodate for differing file folder sizes and differing drawer slide dimensions.

Construction note - the following design will be based on the use of 19 mm wood panels for construction and the cabinet components will be assembled, for the most part, using plate joinery biscuits.

Within the tutorial, the reader will learn how to create all the 2D and 3D components required to create the modern desk that is illustrated on the cover of the tutorial. The reader will learn how to establish lighting and apply materials, the reader will learn how to create a render scene environment and establish luminance lighting. The reader will learn how to render their drawing and save it in a high resolution image format. The reader will also learn how to utilize paper space with inserted viewports and drafting palette views, dimensions and annotations, plus much more. The tutorial will illustrate all these processes with each keystroke.

 View Sample Pages  25 pages 2.19MB PDF file

TurboCAD Pro V15.1 - Mechanical Illustration
- From 2D Image to 3D Model to Company Brochure -

From the Introduction:

Without a doubt, TurboCAD is an exceptional tool when it comes to creating CAD drawings. Perhaps not so well know is the fact that TurboCAD is also an indispensable graphics tool. One of the best benefits that come from using TurboCAD in this fashion is that once the 3D model is created a near infinite number of views can be established. These views can include a variety of environments, lighting schemes and embellishments. The TurboCAD user can create detailed full model visuals, exploded views, section views and even cutaway views which, is what will be worked toward in this tutorial. This tutorial was initially written for version 11.2 and creating the illustrated cutaway cylinder required a great deal more effort than it will with V15.1. This is due to the fact that a user now has the ability to apply materials to individual facets of multi-facetted objects. This will save much time and effort.

Since the main focus of all Textual Creations tutorials has always been TurboCAD instruction, most of tutorial time will be spent within TurboCAD. Using TurboCAD, the reader will learn how to create all the components of the pneumatic cylinder (both 2D and 3D) pictured on the cover of the tutorial. The reader will learn how to insert a supplied illustration and scale it. The reader will learn how to 'trace' some profiles and revolve them into 3D parts. The reader will learn how to apply materials and how to insert lighting and the reader will learn how to save their rendered images in a high resolution image format. Finally the reader will learn how to create a single page layout that will be brought into Paint Shop Pro and combined with the cutaway cylinder to create a final presentation piece. The tutorial will illustrate all these processes with each keystroke.

Using Paint Shop Pro the reader will learn how to remove backgrounds from the TurboCAD rendered image. The reader will learn how to work with layers and how to create a dropped shadow look with the cutaway cylinder. The tutorial will illustrate all these processes with each keystroke.

View Sample Pages  25 pages 2.16MB PDF file

Using Paint Shop Pro the reader will learn how to create the final illustration that appears on the cover of the tutorial. This includes removing backgrounds from the TurboCAD rendered images, using the pen tool and other vector tools to establish a layout and create decorative elements. The reader will learn how to work with layers and how to achieve the blended cutaway that is key to the final presentation, plus much more. The tutorial will illustrate all these processes with each keystroke.

View Sample Pages  20 page PDF file 2.26MB

View Sample Pages  26 page PDF file 2.23MB

TurboCAD V15 Pro - Helicopter

During the tutorial, the reader will learn how to create the helicopter illustrated on the cover from scratch using 2D profiles and 3D primitive shapes. The reader will learn how to insert and scale an image, how to establish lighting and apply materials. The reader will learn how to create a render scene environment and establish luminance lighting. The reader will learn how to render their drawing and save it in a high resolution image format. The reader will also learn how to utilize paper space with inserted viewports and a few annotations. The tutorial will illustrate all these processes with each keystroke.

View Sample Pages  25 page PDF file 2.32MB

Using TurboCAD, the reader will learn how to create a 3D log cabin from scratch using 2D profiles and 3D primitive shapes. The reader will learn how to apply materials, how to insert lighting, luminance lighting (including projection) and establish a render scene environment. The reader will learn how to insert additional models and the reader will learn how to render the drawing and save it as a high resolution image. Additionally, the reader will be led through each step to create a one page brochure style illustration in paper space, as illustrated on the cover of the tutorial.

View Sample Pages  24 page PDF file 2.13MB

TurboCAD V14 Pro - Modular Cabinets
Modular Cabinet Building System

Modular Cabinets is a 256 page fully illustrated tutorial that teaches a reliable and efficient system for creating modular cabinets. From the library components that are created within the tutorial the reader is taken keystroke by keystroke through and entire kitchen cabinet project. As with all the Textual Creations tutorials every key stroke is covered, from setting up TurboCAD, to creating each 2D and 3D object, to creating a Render Scene Environment and establishing Render Scene Luminance. The reader will also learn how to save the final render in a hi-res image format that will appeal to anyone who views the completed work.

Originally written for Version 10.5, Modular Cabinets has been completely rewritten and improved significantly. This is, in part, due to new tools that have been incorporated into TurboCAD and in a much more significant way, due to the increased experience of the author over the many versions since. The author feels that those who work their way through Modular Cabinets will be quite surprised by the amount of information that can be gleaned from its pages.
From the Introduction:

Several times over the last couple years many beginners have asked for a tutorial that would lead them through the necessary steps to create a modular kitchen cabinet building system. This tutorial, then, is an answer to that oft repeated request.

As with any technically advanced software, the user is generally faced with a steep learning curve. It is the hope of the author that the money and time spent working through a Textual Creation tutorial will help ease the learning and allow the reader to come away feeling confident that they made a wise decision. Modular Cabinets is not intended to be the final word on modular cabinet construction but it will undoubtedly help the beginner to develop a reliable method of producing modular cabinets in a timely fashion. The author does have a commercial cabinet builder's background and has used that experience to develop this tutorial. Although presented as accurately as possible, anyone seeking specific cabinet building instruction should check out books specifically dedicated to that field. Besides revealing a method of modular cabinet construction, the main focus of this tutorial is to teach the use of many of the tools that TurboCAD offers and to introduce the new user to a drawing methodology that will help lay the foundation for future successful TurboCAD illustration.

View Sample Pages  25 page PDF file 2.6MB