My knowledge = Zero :-D

[routerdriver]

I also use Freecad,but was a bit hesitant about recommending it for an absolute beginner.It is extremely capable but you have to learn it's quirks and having done so you reap the reward of an integrated CAM package.For an idea of what it can do its worth watching the related youtube videos by Joko engineering.

[Flatteraxe]

Thanks so much for the help everyone.

If I wanted to cut out shapes from 3 or 5mm acrylic would a 2d design software suffice? I'm just thinking I could learn the 2d aspect of design then progress to the 3d.

Thanks again.