Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Set Designer
What set designers actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for a set designer?
Read the script. From there, the day usually includes read scripts, research styles, and sketch and model sets. Project-based, with long hours before openings.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a set designer working full time.
- Read the script.
- Research the period.
- Meet the director.
- Build a model.
- Draft construction drawings.
- Check the scene shop.
- Attend tech rehearsal.
Where set designers work
Designers work in studios, scene shops, stages and sets.
Hours and schedule
Project-based, with long hours before openings.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Read scripts
- Research styles
- Sketch and model sets
- Create drawings
- Budget sets
- Work with directors
- Oversee construction
Tools you’ll use every day
- Vectorworks
- SketchUp
- AutoCAD
- Model materials
- Paints
- Rendering software
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Creative work
- See your designs built
- Collaborative
- Varied projects
What’s hard
- Freelance instability
- Long hours
- Tight budgets
- Competitive
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I love theater or film
- I like drawing and building models
- I collaborate well
- I can handle deadlines
- I like research
- I don’t mind freelance work
Not sure? Take the free Set Designer fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Follow scene shop safety
- Design safe platforms
- Follow fly system rules
- Use fire-retardant materials