Vectorworks for Set Designers: Developing Efficient and Flexible Set Designs
Vectorworks has been a trusted tool among theatrical designers for decades. Lighting designers were among the first to adopt it, drawn to its intuitive tools for drafting light plots and managing large volumes of data. Scenic designers soon followed, recognizing its flexibility and creative potential
This class will guide you through the workflow of creating a set design using Vectorworks. We’ll use the example of a play staged in a traditional proscenium theater. We'll begin with the initial conceptual design and progress through building a white model, eventually adding color, textures, and detail.
Using basic Spotlight and architectural tools, along with simple 3D modeling techniques, we’ll focus on developing an efficient, flexible workflow. Key topics include the strategic use of layers and classes to support design flexibility and streamline collaboration.
We’ll also explore how to structure files and workflows so that designers and assistants can work simultaneously on different aspects of the set—preserving visual consistency while generating precise construction documentation for individual elements.
Entertainment
Entertainment
2h 30m
Intermediate
Learning Objectives
Develop a flexible workflow with efficient use of classes and layers.
Easily modify surface treatments by modifying classes or using data visualization.
This on-demand class offers a comprehensive exploration of working with data in Vectorworks software, covering everything from built-in object parameters to advanced visualization and reporting techniques. Participants will start by examining the different types of native object data within the software, then progress to creating and attaching custom records for both simple and complex objects. The class will also demonstrate practical methods for viewing, managing, and presenting data using tools such as Data Visualization, Data Tags, and report generation. This class will develop your skills to structure, manage, and leverage object data effectively—ultimately boosting project efficiency, accuracy, and documentation quality.
All Industries
All Industries
2h 1m
Intermediate
Learning Objectives
Identify and utilize existing object data – Recognize different types of default object data, including 2D, hybrid, and complex objects, and navigate the Object Info Palette (OIP) and Resource Manager to explore attached records.
Create and attach custom records to objects – Develop and apply custom records to objects, incorporating various field types such as boolean values, text fields, and dropdown lists, and attach them using conventional methods.
Visualize and report data on drawings – Utilize Data Visualization and Data Tags to display object data within drawings, and generate both preformatted and custom reports for project documentation.
Vectorworks for Lighting Designers: Crafting Effective Light Plots
Vectorworks has been used by Broadway lighting designers for decades. Its tools and functionality make Spotlight the industry standard. In this 3-hour live online class, we’ll cover the basics of creating a light plot. During the design process, we’ll use Vectorworks Spotlight’s tools to correctly insert and focus lighting devices, allowing us to see an accurate representation of beams and angles. Putting on our electrician's hat, we’ll add channel and DMX addressing. By the end of the class, you will have a full set of production documents, including light plots and sections, equipment counts, instrument schedules and hookups, and even rendered images.
Entertainment
Entertainment
3h
Intermediate
Learning Objectives
Insert and focus theatrical lights accurately in 3D space.
Input and display lighting data, both on the plot and through instrument schedules.
What’s New with Showcase in Vectorworks Spotlight 2026?
The webinar, hosted by Joshua Schulman, Matt Artigues, and Live Design, explores the updated Showcase feature in Vectorworks Spotlight 2026, highlighting its new visual and control capabilities and the addition of the versatile LED Wall tool for more dynamic stage and event design.
Entertainment
Entertainment
53m
Beginner
Learning Objectives
Understand the major enhancements introduced in the Showcase feature of Vectorworks Spotlight 2026.
Learn how the new LED Wall tool streamlines design, analysis, and reporting for complex visual setups.
Discover improved workflows for managing lighting, visual effects, and DMX integration within Spotlight.
Join fellow creatives for a day packed with Vectorworks product insights, inspiring customer stories, and ideas that help you push the boundaries of what’s possible.
All Industries
All Industries
3h 24m
Beginner
Learning Objectives
Explore customer success stories from your peers in the architecture, interiors, and landscape design industries.
Hear from Vectorworks leadership on the product roadmap and new features of Vectorworks 2026.
Discover how to use the new Wall Tool in the 2026 update, explained for non-architects. This video breaks down recent changes—like how wall fills, pens, and components work in both 2D and 3D views—so anyone can understand and confidently use the updated features, even without an architecture background. Find out how to manage wall appearance and workflow with the latest tools and options.
All Industries
All Industries
6m
Beginner
Learning Objectives
Apply the updated wall tool attribute workflow in Vectorworks 2026 by modifying component settings, utilizing class-based attribute control, and managing profile lines to achieve consistent wall appearance between 2D and 3D views.
In the fast-paced world of
television production, adaptability is everything. The mantra for every
television art department is simple: prepare and anticipate but, always be
ready to pivot.
In this webinar, Angela Cullen, a
set designer with experience with Apple TV+, Disney, and more, will help you
discover how a television set designer leverages Vectorworks Architect and Spotlight
to stay ahead of shifting creative needs and production demands.
You'll see how these tools streamline workflows, enhance collaboration, and support the creative process.
Entertainment
Entertainment
39m
Intermediate
Learning Objectives
Learn
how to create engaging, production-ready conceptual presentations for
television set design.
Enhance
design flexibility by learning strategies to adapt quickly to creative pivots
and shifting production requirements.
Incorporate
visual elements such as wallpaper, color palettes, and material textures to
communicate mood, style, and storytelling.
Design any LED video wall shape you can imagine – flat, curved, and 3D – with the all-new LED Wall tool. Instantly place and plan panels, calculate power and data needs, and generate detailed reports covering size, resolution, and required equipment. Deliver flawless, fully documented installations or permanent displays faster, with complete freedom and confidence in every project. Discover how to get started with this video.
Entertainment
Entertainment
10m
Beginner
Learning Objectives
Get started with the new LED Video Wall feature release with Vectorworks Spotlight 2026.
Design any LED video wall shape you can imagine – flat, curved, and 3D – with the all-new LED Wall tool. Instantly place and plan panels, calculate power and data needs, and generate detailed reports covering size, resolution, and required equipment. Deliver flawless, fully documented installations or permanent displays faster, with complete freedom and confidence in every project. Explore the Settings and styles in this video.
Lay out and customize even the largest worksheets with a ribbon-style toolbar. Split your data into neatly linked slices that fit your print areas, pin headers for easy navigation, and enjoy a fresh, streamlined interface. With less time spent on manual formatting, you’ll be able to provide accurate documentation with ease. Discover how to get started with this video.
Bring instant clarity and spatial depth to your drawings with automated Depth Cueing. Line weights, tonal values, and pixel transparency adjust dynamically based on object distance in both Hidden Line and Shaded viewports, reducing the need for manual adjustments. Create crisp, legible drawings that elevate every presentation and help you meet drawing standards with ease. Discover how to get started with this video.
All Industries
All Industries
9m
Intermediate
Learning Objectives
Explore Depth Cueing for Hidden Line and Shaded Viewports
Keep your Vectorworks files in top condition with the File Health Check palette—available only to subscription users. Automatically scan documents for hidden geometry and resource issues, receive smart suggestions, and resolve inefficiencies in just one click. Spend less time troubleshooting and more time designing, knowing your projects are always optimized for peak performance. Discover how to get started with this video.
