In this tutorial, Brandon PT Davis—Theatrical Scenic Designer—guides you through the 3D Modeling Tools found in the Vectorworks Tool Palette, offering a detailed overview of how each tool can be applied to scenic and production design. These tools allow for organic shaping, structural modeling, and precise geometric manipulation.

Brandon begins with primitive objects, including:

• Sphere (Shift+3), Hemisphere, Cone, Pyramid, and Ellipsoid tools

• Each shape includes adjustable dimensions, radius modes, and control through the Object Info Palette

He then explores key modeling functions like:

• Push/Pull Tool (P): Extrude or move faces perpendicularly or at the face angle

• Extract Tool (Shift+E): Extract surfaces or curves for isolated texturing or path creation

• Fillet Edge Tool (Ctrl+F): Add rounded edges to 3D forms

• Chamfer Edge Tool: Create beveled corners using consistent edge parameters

• Taper Face Tool: Select anchor and moving faces to apply angled tapers

• Shell Solid Tool (Shift+S): Hollow out objects while maintaining specified wall thickness

A highlight of the tutorial is the Deform Tool, offering advanced shape control through:

• Twist, Bend, and Bulge modes

• Finite and symmetrical deformation

• Tips on managing geometry complexity for performance

Additionally, Brandon shares practical advice on:

• Using Extract Curve for creating paths

• Combining shapes for extrude-along-path effects

• Adjusting properties directly through the Object Info Palette for height, scale, and symmetry

These tools are essential for building complex scenic models, props, and concept forms for film, theatre, or themed environments—all directly within Vectorworks’ native toolset.