Design app?

[MartinM]

Anyone know of a design app for iPad for drawing/designing a custom aquarium and plumbing that can be used by someone who most definitely isn’t a designer (aka me)? Thanks!

 

[mjszos]

I've used Shaper3D on my iPad, but it's not something that a total beginner would be able to pick up and start designing complex things immediately, but its more user friendly than CAD. Not designed for aquariums specifically, but it's great with layering and building things out to scale. There is a free version, but unfortunately I cannot recall what features are limited. It is designed around use with the Apple Pencil, so something to keep in mind..

With this in mind, I have personally found that the most effective method of mapping things out is with good old paper and pencil. You don't need to be an artist to make good plans, just a couple of pieces of paper, a pencil, and a ruler if you're feeling spicy.

 

[air_run]

It's not free and maybe overkill for a "one time" use but, SketchUp makes a version for iPad. It also has a little bit of a learning curve but, much easier than CAD or SolidWorks.

https://www.sketchup.com/products/sketchup-for-ipad
I'm just suggesting as I use Adobe Illustrator as well and in conjunction with SketchUp to design all my aquarium builds as well as other non aquarium related projects.

...or just go old school and draw it out. I do that too. I've attached some examples of both.