Skip to main content

Vectorworks for Projection Design

If you want to learn VWX as a tool for projection design. I can teach ya the basics to get started in an afternoon or two … But it’s a deep dive.  

There is’t a linear path to learn Projection design in VWX, unless you are doing traditional trade-show and event set ups. In which case - look no further than the built in “Screen” tool. To me, and most who work in the Creative Tech field - this tool is almost useless. In the hundreds of projectors I’ve engineered and hung, less than 10 were hung “traditionally.” True for you, too?  

If you have complex designs in mind or projection that isn’t on screens: building it out is more of a DiY adventure. Projection Viz (link below) is a great alternative to the built in Screen tool, and Landru’s tool set will allow you to create arrays and do other complicated things.  

VWX is extremely valuable as an engineering tool, but it’s also great with how you can create your own tools and workflows within. Scripts galore! Make your own plug-ins! Design your own metadata! Collate the information from the metadata in an exciting way! Here’s an example of how I used VWX as an emulation tool while combining my projection mapping skills. I’ve also used VWX to design layouts in my apartment. That’s something a lot of people  

My advice is:

  1. Take the intro to VWX spotlight workshop seminar. It happens weekly on Vectorworks University and it is free. They say it’s a webinar but the vibe I get is that it’s pre-recorded… ! Essential first step though IMHO.  
  2. Take the intro to VWX course “Core Concepts” (16 hours) on VWX University (also free). This class was produced by Don Ward for VWX ~2020.  
  3. Then, take the intermediate course, also 16 hours, also Don Ward. He’s my absolute favorite VWX teacher - think he left the company in 2021.  
  4. Then: Learn how to produce a frustum, modify it, attach it to a projector symbol, etc.  

For the University classes; a lot of things have changed, but a lot of things have stayed the same. If you’re lost, your best bet is to consult the forums. If you can’t find something it’s like a 50/50 chance it’s in a different place or straight up just doesn’t exist anymore. VWX is kind of like Google in that way - constantly updating but not necessarily repairing. We lovers of VWX openly acknowledge this great flaw.  

Try the plug-in: ProjectionViz 2
https://benghiatlighting.com/software/product/projectionviz-2/

Try the Landru Plug-ins:
https://www.landrudesign.com/DefaultFrameSet.htm?VSandSpotlight.htm~LandruMnFrm

Back to top