Vectorworks for beginners
Time: 10:00 - 17:00
Location: Keeley Street
Choose a start date
- Course Code: VF393
- Dates: 10/05/24 - 31/05/24
- Time: 10:00 - 17:00
- Taught: Fri, Daytime
- Duration: 4 sessions (over 4 weeks)
- Location: Keeley Street
- Tutor: Nicholas Williamson
Course Code: VF393
Choose a start date
Duration: 4 sessions (over 4 weeks)
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Centre for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
What is the course about?
This practical fast paced course is an introduction to drawing digital 2D and 3D design ideas. Vectorworks is very user-friendly, industry starndard software that is ideal for planning interior design projects, architectural planning, 3D modeling and landscaping. The software is sufficiently adaptable to be relevant for the home enthusiast and professionals alike. Take 2D drawings through to a fully rendered 3D model on this multidisciplinary computer aided design program. You will be taught on a Mac but the program also works on a PC.
What will we cover?
The course will cover how to set up a drawing correctly, the use of the various 2D drawing tools to do professional plans and elevations, and how to effectively access and use the built-in symbol library. In addition, it will cover how to transform your 2D plan into a fully rendered 3D perspective with textures and lighting, plus how to bring together the entire project for a final presentation print. This beginners part of the course does not cover complex curved shapes.
Periodically there will be forum sessions were we will look at each other’s work to discuss different aspects of the programme. Asking questions and commenting is encouraged at all times. Handouts relating to the course content are available. Safe studio practice, including setting up workstations, saving files, safe use of equipment and clearing away equipment will be part of the session.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
1. Create 2D plans and elevations
2. Generate a 3D model with different camera angles
3. Introduce textures and finishes
4. Apply lighting solutions
5. Use your own textures and images in the model
6. Prepare images for printing.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
We will introduce all students to Vectorworks, but you will need to come with a basic understanding of using a computer including how to navigate, open and save files.
You should be able to follow simple written and verbal instructions, demonstrations, hand-outs and health and safety information, and will be invited to take part in group discussion. You should be able to use numbers and be able to do simple measurements and calculations.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
You will be taught using a range of techniques including workshops, short lectures, demonstrations, tutorials, group and individual assistance and hand-outs. Please note the City Lit uses Apple Mac computers in its design studios.
We use Google Classroom E-learning platform which will store all tasks, notes and resources. You will be sent an email with the necessary information and will need to login into your Google classroom before each sessions starts.
We will work on Apple computers with the Vectorworks software. The course consists of discussions and demonstrations and one-to-one personal projects.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
You need to purchase a USB memory stick of at least 2GB to back up and store your data. Other basic materials will be provided.
You can get a free Vector works licence for use on the course but please note:
Educational licences are only meant to be used whilst on a course during the academic year and cannot be extended beyond the academic year. They are not to be used for business practices or personal use not connected to the course.
You can request a free student licence from Vector Works following link below.
https://designexpress.freshdesk.com/en/support/solutions/articles/44002158778-how-do-i-request-a-free-license-on-the-student-portal-#:~:text=A%20Vectorworks%20license%20is%20free,to%20student.myvectorworks.net.
Licences are issued at the discretion of Vectorworks.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
Develop your skills further with our Vectorworks intermediate courses. You may also wish to enhance your Interior Design skills through a range of our Interior Design, SketchUpPro and Drawing plans and Perspective drawing courses.
Nick Williamson studied both Interior Design and 3D Design, subsequently working as an interior designer for hospitality projects including Rank Hotels and as the senior designer for high street retailer W H Smith. He then returned to study – graduating with an MA in Furniture Design - after which he set up as an independent furniture designer/maker making bespoke pieces for both corporate and private clients. He now combines his design work with teaching and is a design tutor and lecturer at several design schools, universities and colleges. A personal interest in CAD software has led to him specialising in Vectorworks, AutoCAD and SketchUp. He enjoys showing students the possibilities of what these programs can achieve and is experienced at teaching at all levels.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.
