CADtools is a plugin for Adobe Illustrator that adds computer-aided design (CAD) functionality to the Illustrator environment. It provides tools for precision drawing, measurement, dimensioning, scaling, and labeling within vector-based design workflows. The plugin integrates directly into Illustrator and extends its capabilities with technical drawing features typically found in CAD systems. It enables users to create scaled drawings, add accurate dimensions, generate geometry such as arcs and fillets, and work with measured units rather than purely visual vector graphics. CADtools is designed for professionals who require accurate technical illustrations while continuing to work inside Illustrator. It supports workflows in fields such as architecture, engineering, manufacturing, product design, exhibition design, and signage production. The software operates as a locally installed plugin and depends on a compatible version of Adobe Illustrator.

Key Features

Precision Drawing Tools Extends Illustrator with CAD-style geometry tools.

• Draw lines, arcs, circles, and polygons with exact measurements
• Create fillets, chamfers, and tangent arcs
• Construct parallel lines and offset paths
• Generate geometric constructions

Live Dimensioning Add and manage accurate dimensions in drawings.

• Linear, angular, radial, and arc dimensions
• Associative dimensions that update with geometry changes
• Customizable dimension styles
• Control over units and formatting

Scale and Units Management Work in real-world units and scales.

• Define document scale
• Switch between metric and imperial units
• Convert measurements
• Maintain consistent scaling across drawings

Labeling and Annotation Tools Add structured annotations to technical drawings.

• Callouts and leader lines
• Surface and line labeling
• Automatic labeling functions
• Style customization for consistency

Transformation and Editing Tools Enhance object manipulation precision.

• Move and copy objects by distance and angle
• Rotate around defined reference points
• Mirror and align with numeric input
• Create measured duplicates

CAD Document Controls Support structured technical workflows.

• Dedicated CAD panel inside Illustrator
• Toolbars integrated into Illustrator interface
• Numeric input for exact positioning
• Drawing setup options

Benefits

Technical Accuracy in Illustrator Brings measurable precision to vector design.

• Exact numeric input
• Scaled drawing environment
• Reduced manual calculation errors

Integrated Workflow Eliminates need to switch between CAD and design software.

• Operates fully inside Illustrator
• Compatible with existing Illustrator files
• Streamlined design-to-production workflow

Improved Documentation Supports production-ready technical drawings.

• Clear dimensioning
• Standardized annotation styles
• Accurate layout for fabrication or construction

Flexible Unit Handling Adaptable to various industries and regions.

• Metric and imperial support
• Custom unit preferences
• Scale adjustments without redesign

Professional Output Supports technical communication needs.

• Clean dimension lines and annotations
• Consistent formatting
• Suitable for print and digital documentation