Hello - I'm a newcomer to sketch-U-cation, just registered.
I'm not really new to SketchUp, but I might as well be. I've used an old version (free) for about five years to make detailed plans for a workshop and a barn (both completed). I've also used it to accurately display my ideas for new tent designs, work benches, barn-cabinets, shelves, a simple A-frame out-house, etc. I am not very skilled at using SketchUp -- my efforts have been slow and laborious, with many setbacks and do-overs.
I always knew I should invest the time to really learn the program...but whenever I needed to design something, I simply didn't have the time, so I just did as best I could. Even though I'm unskilled, I kept at it, because the end result was always clean, clear, and easy to follow. My construction ideas have been way off the beaten path, and have raised some eyebrows at the county building department. The printed SketchUp plans have been instrumental in obtaining building permits -- once they could really see where I was going, they gave enthusiastic approval, and my final inspections have just been two-minute pro forma rubber-stamp sessions, then back to the cabin for a cup of strong coffee.
This summer, however, I have to build my wife a "meditation room" -- a 12x16 cabin she can use for private Buddhist meditaion, and also something we can use as a guest house for visitors or at reunions. This year I'm just doing the base, framing, floor, siding, windows, door, and a roof, with a small deck -- it'll just be a shell, but weather-tight and usable -- I can insulate and dry-wall next year. I want to do it right, so finally I'm ready to put in the time needed to learn SketchUp.
I listed my version as SketchUp Make 2017...but I haven't actually downloaded it yet. Does anyone have any observations about the latest Make version that would cause you to avoid it? Are there any as-yet-unzapped-bugs?
And then I'd appreciate any advice on the best simple tutorial videos and/or books. There are so many options, I don't know where to start. My criteria are as follows: 1st, I'm retired on a fixed income, and have little discretionary money, so nothing too expensive (...and free would be best); 2nd, I don't need to make my plans fancy or pretty, just simple, basic, and accurate...much like my woodwork -- so I don't need guidance on landscaping or architectural flourishes or curved surfaces or...; 3rd, as a certified old fart, I'm not ashamed to admit that maybe I'm no longer the sharpest knife in the drawer, so I truly believe in KISS. Finally, because of the work of maintaining two homes, and family responsibilities, I don't have hundreds of hours to study, practice, and improve, so I'm looking for something that will get me up to speed pretty quickly. Does anyone have any suggestions?
Sorry to be so long-winded. Comes with advanced age and senility. I'm glad I found this site.
So again...hello.