In this in-depth Vectorworks tutorial, Brandon PT Davis—Theatrical Scenic Designer—walks through the entire process of modeling a turned-leg table using a photo reference. This project-based video demonstrates how to take a real-world object and build it into a precise, textured hybrid symbol suitable for scenic drafting, visualization, or fabrication workflows.

The process begins with importing and scaling the reference image, using known measurements (like a standard 30" table height) to set an accurate foundation for modeling. Brandon breaks down the structure into key parts:

• Tabletop modeled using concentric extruded circles

• Turned legs created using traced polyline profiles and the Sweep tool

• Square leg blocks and supports added via simple extrudes and boolean operations

• Bottom foot detail handled with a custom profile and sweep subtraction

Tools used include:

• Polyline Tool (5)

• Sweep, Extrude, Add/Subtract Solids

• Connect/Combine, Split, Mirror (=), Fillet (Ctrl+F)

• Deform and Scale for geometric cleanup and adjustment

Brandon shares professional strategies for:

• Keeping modeling origin centered at (0,0)

• Building around consistent dimensions and snapping

• Avoiding overly complex curves for performance and clarity

• Using screen plane views and drawing aids like ‘B’ to look behind geometry

The final model is converted to a hybrid symbol, with a custom 2D Top/Plan graphic and a realistic Renderworks wood texture applied to 3D components. The result is a highly functional, well-structured scenic prop model.