I'm currently working on a series of tutorials that offers basic training which will teach you how to model very basic zones as a starting point. Further down into the series, we'll move into some advanced techniques. Currently, I only use Photoshop CS6 (
$$$ - you can get the trial for now or use preferred alternatives) & Autodesk 3ds Max 2015 (
Free).
Check it all out as I am constantly adding more to the series. I'm trying to raise some awareness and interest within the EQEMU community regarding client-side modifications & additions. Zaela put a lot of time into those tools so this is my contribution.
http://wiki.eqemulator.org/p?Modeling_Custom_Zones_