Vectorworks Tutorial: Understanding Classes
Master the organization system that controls graphic attributes, textures, and visibility in Vectorworks using classes and hierarchies.
In this lesson
Understand what classes are and how they differ from design layers
Navigate and manage classes using the Navigation palette
Use class hierarchies to organize scenic drawings
What you'll learn
Understand what classes are and how they differ from design layers
Navigate and manage classes using the Navigation palette
Use class hierarchies to organize scenic drawings
Apply and override graphic attributes using classes
Reset overridden attributes back to class control
Use groups strategically while preserving class visibility
Overview
This tutorial introduces classes as one of the most important organizational tools in Vectorworks. You'll learn how classes control graphic attributes, textures, and visibility—allowing you to show or hide specific elements of a drawing as needed for drafting and documentation.
The walkthrough covers how classes are structured, how class hierarchies work, and why standard classes like None and Dimension are critical to a clean workflow. You'll also see the difference between manually overriding attributes and allowing classes to control appearance using Use at Creation settings.
Finally, the tutorial explores how grouping objects interacts with class visibility—showing how multiple classed objects can live inside a group while still responding independently to class-based control. This approach becomes especially useful in complex scenic drawings.