How to Create Blueprints

Print out blueprints to use for reference on a construction site.

Blueprints are used to show detailed schematics for building and landscaping projects. Mostly viewed from above, blueprints show where doors, wiring and other structural aspects should be installed. Typical blueprints include elevations, floor plans, electrical layouts and plumbing systems, according to the House Designers website. Although blueprints can be created by hand, blueprint creation software makes the process much quicker and more accurate. There are many software programs to create blueprints that work for both professionals and hobbyists.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Purchase and install AutoDesk AutoCAD, the premier software for creating professional and detailed blueprints. AutoCAD has been used to create important buildings for Marriott, Sacramento County and the Lessard Group according to the AutoCAD website. In addition to creating large blueprints of landscaping, office building and residential housing, AutoCAD can also be used to create 3D models of the blueprints. Use the software to visualize the project before you start building. AutoCAD is best used for manufacturing, architecture and construction projects.

2. Download and install the Digital Canal SolidBuilder software. This software can be used to create traditional 2D, top-view blueprints. It also has features to help users create 3D scale models of their work. Choose blueprint styles that present the design with colored lines on a black background or black lines on a white background depending on your visual standards. It can even produce the traditional blueprint standard of white lines on a blue background. Input a 3D model into SolidBuilder and the program will automatically create a working blueprint. Create basic floor plans or add more detail for accurate blueprints.

3. Purchase and install SmartDraw. This blueprint software program comes with a free trial mode if you want to try it out before you buy it. Create simple or detailed floor plans and blueprints, or create extensive engineering and wiring diagrams. Although you can use SmartDraw for blueprints, it has many other useful features as well, including timeline, flowchart and presentation creation options. Use SmartDraw to create residential or commercial landscaping projects from a top-down view. The program comes with built-in images to make adding plants, doors and furniture to your blueprint much quicker.

Tips & Warnings

• Compare prices when shopping for blueprint software and remember that prices change from year to year.

References

• The House Designers: Understanding Blueprints

Resources

• Autodesk AutoCAD
• Digital Canal Solidbuilder
• SmartDraw