Model Making & Scale Drawings for Set Design

Lesson 1 • Setting Up a Model Making Workspace

A safe, organized workspace prevents errors and injury during model construction. Students configure cutting mats, lighting, and storage for efficient workflow.

Lesson 2 • Tools and Materials Overview

Identify and handle the core hand tools, adhesives, and board materials used in set design models. Proper tool selection directly affects model accuracy and finish quality.

Lesson 3 • Spatial Thinking for Set Designers

Translate two-dimensional drawings into three-dimensional mental images before building. Exercises develop the spatial reasoning that underpins all subsequent model work.

Lesson 1 • Using Scale Rules and Rulers

Scale rules eliminate manual calculation errors during measurement. Students practice reading multiple scales on a single rule and transferring measurements accurately.

Lesson 2 • Human Figure Scale References

Scale figures anchor spatial perception and help directors evaluate sightlines and actor movement. Students create and position accurate human scale references.

Lesson 3 • Proportional Accuracy and Error Checking

Small measurement errors compound into significant spatial distortions in finished models. Students apply systematic checking routines to catch and correct discrepancies early.

Lesson 4 • Scaling Architectural Drawings

Architectural drawings arrive in varied scales that must be reconciled with the model scale. Students extract and convert dimensions from floor plans and elevations.

Lesson 1 • Dimensioning and Annotation

Dimensions and notes transform drawings into buildable documents. Students apply correct dimensioning conventions and write legible, standardized annotations.

Lesson 2 • Orthographic Projection Basics

Orthographic projection represents three-dimensional objects through related flat views. Students draw plan, elevation, and section views in correct alignment.

Lesson 3 • Drawing a Stage Floor Plan

The floor plan is the primary document for set layout and sightline analysis. Students draft a complete plan showing walls, openings, and furniture placement.

Lesson 4 • Line Types and Line Weights

Consistent line types convey object edges, hidden features, and dimensions without ambiguity. Students apply industry-standard line hierarchies to hand-drafted drawings.

Lesson 1 • Doors, Windows, and Openings

Openings affect sightlines, actor movement, and lighting angles in the real set. Students model doors and windows with correct proportions and functional swing indicators.

Lesson 2 • Cutting Techniques for Clean Edges

Clean cuts define model quality and affect how joints close. Students practice straight cuts, curves, and internal cutouts with consistent blade control.

Lesson 3 • Joining and Bonding Methods

Strong, invisible joints hold the model together and maintain geometric accuracy. Students select and apply appropriate adhesives for different material combinations.

Lesson 4 • Transferring Drawings to Card

Accurate transfer from drawing to card is the critical link between design intent and physical form. Students use scoring, tracing, and direct measurement methods.

Lesson 1 • Lighting Simulation in Models

Small LED elements reveal how lighting angles and color affect the set's atmosphere. Students integrate basic lighting into models for director and lighting designer review.

Lesson 2 • Painting and Color Presentation

Color communicates mood, period, and material intent to collaborators. Students apply color schemes consistently and account for scale-related color perception shifts.

Lesson 3 • Furniture and Props at Scale

Scaled furniture confirms spatial comfort and visual balance within the set. Students construct or source miniature furniture pieces that match the model's scale.

Lesson 4 • Adding Architectural Detail

Moldings, trim, and surface relief communicate design style and period. Students build and attach small-scale detail elements without distorting the model's structure.

Lesson 1 • CAD Interface and Setup

A correctly configured CAD environment prevents unit errors and layer confusion throughout a project. Students set up units, layers, and title blocks to professional standards.

Lesson 2 • Drafting Floor Plans in CAD

A CAD floor plan integrates all set elements on coordinated layers for easy revision. Students draft a complete stage plan with walls, openings, and furniture blocks.

Lesson 3 • Elevations and Sections in CAD

CAD elevations project directly from the plan, ensuring dimensional consistency across documents. Students generate and annotate front, rear, and side elevations.

Lesson 4 • Printing and Plotting to Scale

Correct plot settings ensure printed drawings match the intended scale for model making. Students configure viewports, plot styles, and paper sizes for accurate output.

Lesson 1 • Modular and Changeable Set Models

Multi-scene productions require models with interchangeable elements that demonstrate scene transitions. Students design and build modular components with consistent connection systems.

Lesson 2 • Fly Tower and Scenic Flying Elements

Flying scenery requires models that show trim heights, masking, and travel paths. Students represent fly systems and flying pieces within a proscenium model.

Lesson 3 • Thrust and Traverse Stage Models

Non-proscenium stages require models that expose audience sightlines on multiple sides. Students build thrust and traverse configurations and analyze sightline coverage.

Lesson 4 • Raked and Multi-Level Sets

Raked stages and multi-level platforms add spatial complexity and structural challenge. Students construct accurate raked surfaces and interconnected platform levels.

Lesson 1 • Assembling a Design Drawing Package

A complete drawing package gives the production team all documents needed to build the set. Students compile, sequence, and title-block a full set of construction drawings.

Lesson 2 • Photographing Models Professionally

High-quality photographs extend a model's communicative life beyond the physical object. Students apply lighting, camera angle, and post-processing techniques for production-ready images.

Lesson 3 • Revision Workflow and Version Control

Design changes are inevitable; a clear revision workflow prevents confusion and wasted effort. Students manage model and drawing revisions systematically across multiple production meetings.

Lesson 4 • Model Storage, Transport, and Display

Models must survive transport and storage without damage to remain useful throughout production. Students build protective boxes and learn safe handling protocols.