elpulpo - I use a peculiar combination of different packages, from SketchUp to Blender and back again. Seems SketchUp isn't now as useful as it used to be. The original version allowed me to import STL files but I lost that function when I updated sometime recently. Now I need to migrate to .obj and convert to still in Netfabb. Seems like my workflow is a moving feast! LOL

nyl0cke - Those Sketchup flipped tris errors can be corrected pretty easily in S3D, liking the built in repair functions.

Like vinnie I use Inventor. Not the greatest for artsy things (Trying to create a radar dish for a prop jetpack isn't that fun when there isn't much of a technical drawing ): and I really don't want to organic model with it...) I have 3Ds Max installed as well (student licensing yo) and thats much better for organics and artsy models, but I haven't had the time to learn something new.

There are a few sites with common things like motors, fasteners, more common electronics boards, standard hardware (profiles for aluminum t-slot extrusions, v-rail, etc), and plenty of other things. GrabCAD, Thingiverse (mostly STL files though) and the other 3D printing sites (youmagine, repables, etc) have things too.

n23d - For common parts like screws, nuts bolts and other stuff there are data bases. McMaster has cad files for most of there products its a great resource. I also use GrabCAD to get ideas and starting points to work from. Thingverse STL files are harder to work with however they have been useful. I use Rhino3D for my cad work there are also plugins for things like Gear design. Rhino can import point clouds from scanner systems that can be used for starting points. I also use my own library of prior designs. Many designs are started from a blank sheet and a few hand sketches or a physical part and calipers as a starting point.

raykholo - Vinnie and I have discussed organic modeling before. I've been doing complex shapes like that in Inventor before they allegedly released the new tools for working that way. By this point in time I've trained my brain to think in sequences of manipulations, so it's easier for me to just design the old fashioned way.
Plus I love parametric. I needed a Nema 11 Stepper Motor model for the CAD of the 3D printer I'm designing. GrabCAD didn't have it. But I had the model of the larger Nema 17. So I just went into that, changed 4 dimensions, and voila!
I second what is said about Inventor libraries (Content Center) for fasteners, and I've loaded other profiles into there that I use frequently (namely the aluminum extrusions frame for my printer, threaded rod, and U-channel. Just pop it in and specify the length you want, done deal.

I do spatial design, as I call it, which means I lay out all the components of a module relative to each other (hence the spatial name) and then design an enclosure around that.

In short, my goal is to work around existing parts. Sometimes it's necessary to build a component model off just some dimensions in the data sheet, but once that's done I have it for life.

I'm appreciative of Autodesk's student licensing program but it annoys me. It was easier to "get" the pro versions of everything.

milania - No matter how the artist comes to 3D graphics, he will have to master unfamiliar tools — this is not easy even for specialists in related disciplines. The way out is to get acquainted with the technical part gradually, and these 3d tutorials https://3dskillup.com/ will help you a lot in this

prepertion - Interesting!

vendetta - do you want to try start developing your design skills? that's a good idea. I know a site that will inspire you and help you create a unique interior design without having much experience and special skills in this area. you should see and use https://free-psd-templates.com/35-premium-and-free-interior-mockups-in-psd-for-interior-designers-needs/ interior design mockup. don't worry, it's free. I am sure that you will be pleasantly surprised by the variety of designs there

connon - I'd like to join here. Anyway, does anybody know where can I find some neon signs? I think it's reasonable as a decoration for my event. Therefore, if somebody has any kind of ideas, share with me, please. That's essential.