USITT
SCENIC DESIGN
AND
TECHNICAL PRODUCTION
GRAPHIC STANDARD
Greg Bell
James Brewczynski
Dennis Dorn
Jonathan Darling
Ming Cho Lee
Mark Shanda
Frank Silberstein
Robert F. Wolin
Stephan M. Zapytowski (Chair)
18 March 1992
(reissued 15 April 1999)
USIT T SCENIC DESIGN AND TECHNICAL PRODUCTION GRAPHIC S TA N D A R D
1.0 GENERAL. obvious that there will need to be whether the drawing is being prepared
subsequent revision to this standard for a rigging crew, stage manager,
1.1 INTRODUCTION. as new assemblies and fabrication director, prop master, or one of the
techniques become available and as other many specialty areas of the
This first revision of the Scenic Design our understanding of standards performing arts which communicate
and Technical Production Graphic becomes more refined. through the use of graphics. Whatever
Standard is the result of many choices are made, however, each
exchanges, both written and verbal. These revisions have been made based choice must be in the form of
The initial document was published in on the assumption that the majority of communication that is clear,
the 1982 Spring volume of the USITT scenic drafters will be using standard consistent, and efficient for both
journal, Theatre Design & drawing tools rather than CADD drafter and reader.
Technology. Thanks to a number of equipment. To the extent possible,
recently published scenery textbooks symbols and recommendations have 2.0 LINES.
and the enthusiastic acceptance of the been configured to allow for shapes
standard by the USITT membership, which can be efficiently produced by 2.1 LINE WEIGHTS.
both the concept and content of this either means. While it may not be The recommendation is a modified
graphic standard now share a firm possible to produce images identical ANSI standard as follows:
foundation upon which this and to those recognized here as good Pen: Thin: .010 to .0125 width.
succeeding revisions can build. drafting practice when using some (ANSI standard = .016)
CADD packages, it is hoped in those Thick: .20 to .025 width
Although there are many technical instances that the CADD drafter will (ANSI standard = .032)
changes within this revision, the work to produce images which follow Pencil: Thin: 0.3mm
majority are clarifications. Some of this standard as closely as practicable. Thick: 0.5mm
the more significant modifications
include: 1.2 SCOPE. 2.2 LINE TYPES.
1. Indexing of figures and text. This standard is intended to be used 2.2.1 BORDER AND DRAWING
by both scenery designers and scenic DIVISION.
2. Ordered and expanded hardware technicians. As such it is flawed
symbols. because it is not in every instance 2.2.1.1 BORDER.
specific to the discipline. However, as A thick single or double line. See fig.
3. Line symbol alterations, imperfect as this may be, the 2.2.1.
clarifications or additions such as differences between design and shop
the set line, break line, datum drawings are not so great that two 2.2.1.2 TITLE BLOCK.
line, and section lines. distinct standards need to be A thick single or double line.
fashioned, nor is such a split even
4. Elimination of the practice of desirable since so many theatre 2.2.1.3 DRAWING DIVISION.
circumscribing elevation heights on professionals work in both capacities A single thick solid line.
levels. much of the time.
2.2.2 VISIBLE EDGE LINE.
As noted in the original document, the What is important is that drafters A single thick solid line. See fig. 2.2.2.
two-fold purpose for the creation and provide useful information to the end
implementation of a scenic graphic user (e.g., shop drawings need to 2.2.3 HIDDEN EDGE LINE.
standard is to provide practicing and show the breakdown of subassemblies, A thin, uniformly dotted line. See fig.
incoming members of the industry with while design drawings typically convey 2.2.3.
a means of efficient and accurate information regarding profile and
communication. In a profession as finish). In either instance, 2.2.4 CEILING LINE.
mobile as the performing arts, it is the information provided must be A thin, uniformly dashed line. See fig.
critical for practitioners to effectively specific, accurate, comprehensive, 2.2.4. A local note, CEILING LINE is
communicate without the need for and tailored to the needs of the end recommended.
constant on-site residency. Likewise, user.
the educator who has been charged 2.2.5 PLASTER LINE.
with the task of preparing students for Drafters must determine for A thin, uniformly dashed line. See fig.
professional careers needs assurance themselves which elements of this 2.2.5. A local note PL or PLASTER
that what is being taught is actually standard apply to the specific use for LINE may be required for clarity.
acceptable and useful to the majority of which the drawing is being prepared.
practicing professionals. In the The determination of which elements 2.2.6 SET LINE.
context of both circumstances, it is are appropriate will be dependent on A thin solid line with short breaks
USIT T SCENIC DESIGN AND TECHNICAL PRODUCTION GRAPHIC S TA N D A R D
separating it from tormentors or other diagonal lines. See fig. 2.2.10.2. 2.3 LINES NOT SPECIFIED IN THESE
coplanar features. See fig. 2.2.6. A Other standard section lining patterns RECOMMENDATIONS.
local note SL or SET LINE may be may be used to differentiate material Any special lines not described in
required for clarity. as required. If used atypically these these recommendations should be
should be identified in the Legend or noted in the legend of each sheet.
2.2.7 CENTER LINES. by local note.
3.0 DIMENSIONING.
2.2.7.1 CENTER LINES IN GENERAL 2.2.10.3 SECTION VIEW OF ITEMS TOO
APPLICATIONS. A thin line of the THIN FOR SECTION LINING 3.1 GENERAL.
form long-short-long. See fig. 2.2.7. (i.e., CROSS-HATCH).
When a surface is too small to cross- 3.1.1 CRITERIA.
2.2.7.2 SPECIAL FORM FOR MAJOR hatch it may be depicted by a solid Dimensions must be clear, consistent
ARCHITECTURAL FEATURES line of proper scale thickness. See fig. and easily understood.
(e.g., STAGE CENTER LINES). 2.2.10.3. (Variations from true scale
A thin line of the form long-short-long are acceptable if required for clarity.) 3.2 UNITS.
with a local note as CL appended
near the lower edge of the view for 2.2.10.4 OUTLINE OF SECTIONED BODY 3.2.1 METRIC.
emphasis. See fig. 2.2.7. ARCHITECTURAL. Dimensions less than one meter are to
The outline of section views of large be noted as a zero, decimal point, and
2.2.8 LEADERS. architectural solids may be described portion of meter in numerals. All
by an extra thick line in lieu of section measurements one meter and greater
2.2.8.1 LINEAR LEADERS. lining (cross-hatching). See fig. shall be given as a whole meter number,
A thin solid line which is inclined 2.2.10.4. decimal point, and portion of
relative to the major horizontal and meter: 0.1m, 0.52m, 1.5m, 2.35m.
vertical axes and having an arrow 2.2.10.5.1CUTTING PLANE LINE.
pointing toward the feature A thick dashed line of the form long- 3.2.2 ENGLISH.
referenced. See fig. 2.2.8. short-short-long. Arrows at the ends Dimensions less than 1-0 are given
of the cutting plane line indicate the in inches without a foot notation, such
2.2.8.2 SERPENTINE LEADERS. direction of view. See fig. 2.2.10.5.1. as 6, 9 1/2, etc. Dimensions 1-0
A thin solid irregularly curved line and greater include the whole feet
with an arrow pointing toward the 2.2.10.5.2CUTTING PLANE LINE with a single apostrophe followed by a
feature referenced. See fig. 2.2.8. ALTERNATE FORM. dash and then inches followed by a
Short thick lines at the terminations of double apostrophe: 7-1/2, 18-5
2.2.8.3 LEADERS TO AN OUTLINE. the cutting plane. Arrows at the ends 1/4, 1-3.
A linear or serpentine form leader of the cutting plane line indicate the
terminated by an arrow pointing to the direction of view. See fig. 2.2.10.5.2. 3.3 GENERAL FORM.
referenced outline. See fig. 2.2.9.
2.2.11 BREAK LINE.
2.2.8.4 LEADERS TO A SURFACE. A thin line of the form shown in fig. 3.3.1 LINE WEIGHT.
A linear or serpentine form leader 2.2.11. The line extends slightly See Art. 2.2.9 (Lines: Extension &
terminated by a dot on the referenced beyond the edges of the object and is Dimension) & fig. 2.2.9.
surface. See fig. 2.2.8. appropriate for both short and long
break applications. 3.3.2 ORIENTATION.
2.2.9 EXTENSION AND DIMENSION Dimensions should be oriented to
LINES. 2.2.12 PHANTOM LINE. read from the bottom and/or right
Thin lines of the form shown in fig. A thin dashed line of the form long- hand side of the drawing.
2.2.9. short-short-long for use in adjacent
part, alternate position or repeated 3.3.3 DIMENSION / EXTENSION LINES
2.2.10 LINES RELATED TO SECTION feature applications. See fig. 2.2.12. ON OBJECT.
VIEWS. Dimension and extension lines may be
2.2.13 DATUM LINE. placed on a drawn object provided
2.2.10.1 SECTION OUTLINES. A thin, solid line with a locate note as object lines are clearly differentiated
A thick solid line equivalent to a DL, which may be used in situations from dimension and extension lines by
VISIBLE EDGE LINE. See fig. 2.2.10.1. where clearly definable reference contrasting line weight. See Art. 2.2.2
planes are not available, i.e., Plaster (Lines: Visible Edge), Art. 2.2.9
2.2.10.2 SECTION LINES - USUAL FORM. Lines in ground plans. See Art. 4.1.3 (Lines: Extension and Dimension) and
Section lining i.e. cross-hatch (Reference Points and Planes). See fig. fig. 3.5.1.1. (Centers). Extension
consists of thin, uniformly spaced 2.2.13.
USIT T SCENIC DESIGN AND TECHNICAL PRODUCTION GRAPHIC S TA N D A R D
lines typically begin approximately The terms Ground Plan and Floor 4.2.2.2 DOORWAY.
1/16" away from the referenced Plan are considered to be See fig. 4.2.2.2. The shutter is
features. synonymous for the purposes of these normally drawn standing partially
recommendations and are equally open to show how it will be hung.
3.4 CROWDED DIMENSIONS. acceptable. Note the swing line is a thin solid
Recommended methods include any line swung from the door hinge center.
of the configurations shown in fig. 3.4. 4.1.2 DEFINITION. The swing line may extend to the limit
Note that dots or slashes may be A ground or floor plan is a horizontal of travel if required.
substituted when arrows are too big section with the cutting plane passing
for the available space. at whatever level (normally 4'-0 4.2.2.3 WINDOW.
above the stage floor) required to See fig. 4.2.2.3. Show muntins and
3.5 DIMENSIONING ARCS AND produce the most descriptive view. mullions of windows as designed.
CIRCLES. This cutting plane may be locally offset
Recommended methods include any as required for clarity. 4.2.2.4 SLIDING DOOR.
of the configurations shown in figs. See fig. 4.2.2.4.
3.5.1.1, 3.5.1.2, 3.5.2 or 3.5.3. 4.1.3 REFERENCE POINTS AND PLANES
Dimensions on Ground Plans and 4.2.2.5 DOUBLE ACTING DOOR.
3.5.1.1 LOCATING CENTERS OF ARCS AND Sections are to be referenced from the See fig. 4.2.2.5. Note the swing line is
CIRCLES. stage floor (or ground level), Center a thin solid line swung from the door
Arcs and circles are located by Line, and Plaster Line. In the case of hinge center. The swing line may
crossed center lines of the form found spaces or other stage types extend to the limit of travel if required.
shown in fig. 3.5.1.1., 3.5.1.2, or where a clearly established Center
3.5.3. Line and/or Plaster Line is not 4.2.2.6 CASEMENT WINDOW.
available, all dimensions are to be See fig. 4.2.2.6. Show muntins and
3.5.1.2 CENTER LINES ON AND OFF taken from easily established points or mullions of windows as designed. Note
ROUND OBJECT. plane(s) of reference. The points or the swing line is a thin solid line
For purposes of dimensioning, a plane(s) of reference should be swung from the window hinge center.
center line may be extended beyond clearly labeled and noted both on the The swing line may extend to the limit
the boundaries of the circle to which it Ground Plan and or Section, and in of travel if required.
applies in which case it becomes a the Key.
thin solid extension fine. See fig. 4.2.3 SHOWING CASINGS AROUND
3.5.1.2. 4.2 FLAT SCENERY IN GROUND PLANS. OPENINGS.
Casings may be shown in stage ground
3.5.2 SPECIFYING SIZE OF CIRCLES. 4.2.1 SINGLE FLAT. plans where their inclusion would
The size of circles are normally A flat is shown on a stage ground plan significantly clarify information
specified by their diameter. See fig. by a solid line of proper scale required for design, fabrication, or
3.5.2. thickness. See Art. 2.2.10.3 (Section assembly.
Views of Items Too Thin for Section
3.5.2.1 LARGE OBJECT EXCEPTION TO Lining). See fig. 4.2.1. Note that the 4.3 PLATFORMS, STEPS, AND RAMPS
STANDARD METHOD FOR method used to generate such a line is IN GROUND PLANS.
DIMENSIONING ROUND OBJECTS. not a part of these recommendations.
Very large round objects such as 4.3.1 PLATFORM BOUNDARIES.
revolves may be dimensioned by their 4.2.1.1 TWO OR MORE FLATS IN The edges of platforms are shown by
radii if required for clarity or CONTACT. When it is necessary to standard visible, i.e. thick, lines. See
convenience of fabrication. show how flats butt together in fig. 4.3.1.
assembly, the method shown in fig.
3.5.3 SIZE OF ARCS SPECIFIED BY 4.2.1.1 is recommended. Note that the 4.3.2 CONFIRMING LEVEL STATUS OF
RADII. The size of arcs are open line figure above is presented PLATFORMS.
normally specified by their radii. See only to show the derivation of the plan Platforms which are level are so
fig. 3.5.3. view representation and is not a part of indicated by thin crossed lines. See
this recommendation. figs. 4.3.1 and 4.3.3.
3.6 DIMENSIONING ANGLES.
See fig. 3.6. 4.2.2 STANDARD OPENINGS IN FLAT 4.3.3 PLATFORMS OF THE SAME HEIGHT
SCENERY. IN CONTACT.
4.0 GROUND (FLOOR) PLANS. When necessary to show platforms of
4.2.2.1 ARCHWAY. the same height in contact, the
4.1 GENERAL. See fig. 4.2.2.1. respective boundaries may be
4.1.1 TERMINOLOGY. delineated by a thin solid line. See fig
USIT T SCENIC DESIGN AND TECHNICAL PRODUCTION GRAPHIC S TA N D A R D
4.4.1.3 DRAPES (LEGS) FLAT HUNG BUT 5.0.1 HIDDEN LINES IN ELEVATIONS. 5.5.3.2 STOP BLOCK.
SHOWN WITH WAVY LINE. Hidden lines in elevation views may be See fig. 5.5.3.2
An alternative to Art. 4.4.1.1. Flat hung omitted for clarity.
drapery may be shown by a thin wavy 5.6.1 BRACE CLEAT.
line otherwise similar to 4.4.1.2 but 5.1.1 CORNER BLOCKS AND See fig. 5.6.1
having a local note as LEGS - FLAT KEYSTONES. See fig. 5.1.1.
HUNG or equivalent. 5.6.2 KEEPER HOOK.
5.1.2 OMISSION OF CORNER BLOCKS See fig, 5.6.2
USIT T SCENIC DESIGN AND TECHNICAL PRODUCTION GRAPHIC S TA N D A R D
5.6.3 STIFFENING BATTEN upper case letters should be used on 6.2.3 CONTENTS.
See fig. 5.6.3 drawings unless lower case letters are Regardless of form, the following
needed to conform with other information should be included:
5.7.1 ROTO LOCK. established standards or 1. Name of producing organization.
See fig. 5.7.1 nomenclature. Hand lettering should 2. Name of production, act and scene,
be generally similar to the if appropriate,
5.7.2 PICTURE HOOK AND SOCKET. mechanically generated characters of 3. Drawing title.
See fig. 5.7.2 fig. 6.1 while acknowledging 4. Drawing number.
individual stylistic differences. 5. Predominant scale of the drawing.
6.0 MISCELLANEOUS. 6. Date the drawing was drafted.
6.2 TITLE BLOCK. 7. Designer of the production.
6.1 LETTERING. 8. Drafter if different from the
Lettering should be legible and the 6.2.1 LOCATION. designer.
style should allow for easy and rapid The title block should be in the same 9. Drawing approval, if applicable.
execution. Characters which generally location on all drawings of a single
conform to the single stroke Gothic project. The title block should be
style meet these requirements. Only located in either the lower right hand
corner of the drawing or in a strip
along the bottom of the drawing.
6.2.2 FORMAT.
Internal title block division and
placement of information is generally
unique to the producing organization
and is not specified as a part of these
recommendations.
APPROVED BY
USITT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
DALLAS, TEXAS
21 NOVEMBER 1992
USIT T SCENIC DESIGN AND TECHNICAL PRODUCTION GRAPHIC S TA N D A R D
TO
DIMENSION TO A SURFACE
2.2.9 - EXTENSION
THIN
LINES AND FULL ARROWHEADS
DIMENSION PREFERRED
LINES
THIN - EVENLY
2.2.10.2 - SECTIONED SPACED AT 45 DEG
SOLID TO OBJECT OUTLINE
OR AS CLARITY
REQUIRES
WOOD
2.2.10.3 - SECTIONED 1/8 OBJECT IS SHOWN
SOLID TOO UPSON AS A SOLID LINE
THIN TO IN SCALE THICKNESS
CROSSHATCH WOOD
3.0 - DIMENSIONING
1/8
1 - 1/8
2 - 3/4
6
1 - 5/8 3 1 1 2
3 1 1 2
2- 0
4- 0
1/4 DIA
.25
4- 0
5- 0
3.5.2 - DIAMETER
1/2R
1/2R
3.5.3 - RADII
10
1350
300
450 + 0.50
3.6 - ANGLES
USIT T SCENIC DESIGN AND TECHNICAL PRODUCTION GRAPHIC S TA N D A R D
18 9
8
6 24 3 6 7 9 0 6
THIN
THIN
6.0 - MISCELLANEOUS
6.1 LETTERING
ABCDEFGHIJKLMNO
PQRSTUVWXYZ
0I23456789
USIT T SCENIC DESIGN AND TECHNICAL PRODUCTION GRAPHIC S TA N D A R D
5.1.1 - CORNER BLOCK 5.1.2 - ALTERNATE 5.2.1 - RIGID FOOT 5.2.2 - FOLDING
AND KEYSTONE IRON FOOR IRON
5.3.1.1 - TIGHT PIN 5.3.1.2 - TIGHT PIN HINGE 5.3.2.1 - LOOSE PIN 5.3.2.2 - LOOSE PIN
HINGE ON OPPOSITE FACE HINGE HINGE ON OPPOSITE
FACE
5.4.1 - TOP HANGER 5.4.2 - BOTTOM 5.4.3 - CEILING PLATE 5.4.4 - DEE RING
IRON HANGER IRON PLATE