We tried the Better Homes and Gardens home design software. (It was a present from my DH, but I don't think he ever thought it would end up with the renovation that we're now in). It isn't free, but I don't think it is that expensive either.

missifish -
CAD programs come in two kinds: easy to use and useless, hard to use and useful.

Stick to graph paper and pencils and cut-outs and you can get more done, faster.

The home design software makes assumptions that might not work for your house and kitchen.

Lot's of cabinet makers have free software, it that helps for your purpose. Home Depot has it online, or go to the store to have them design your project for you! IKEA has software as well made for use with their kitchen and storage cabinets and it also gives you the cost. It's probably slower to use software that works online like these do though. Good Luck!

If you're interested in a tool for 3D rendering of the space, I highly recommend Google Sketchup. I have recently been playing around with possible kitchen layouts. It is a lot of fun and fairly easy once you watch the tutorials.

Agreed, I planned my whole remodel in Sketchup and all of the remodelers I spoke to were impressed!

Thanks everyone!! I will certainly look into sketchup. It sounds great!
++missi