FROM FIRST DRAFT TO VENUE HANDOFF
How to Make a Stage Plot
A useful stage plot answers two questions: where does everything go,
and what needs connecting? This stage plot maker keeps the drawing
and input list in one project so you can review them together. Start
with the lineup for your next show, then replace example details
with your actual requirements.
1. Arrange Your Stage
Choose a template in the stage plot maker or begin with a blank
layout. Add equipment from the library, drag it into position,
and give each item a recognizable label. Keep the audience edge
in mind when placing the lead vocal, backline and monitors.
Resize or rotate symbols to make the drawing easier to read.
The stage plot maker produces a schematic rather than a measured
floor plan. Enter your stage dimensions as useful context, but
confirm that the real equipment and people fit the venue. Leave
room in the drawing to communicate access around drums,
amplifiers and performers.
2. Add Your Input List and Monitor Notes
Use the stage plot maker input list to record each source,
microphone or DI choice, stand and relevant notes. Link channels
to the matching equipment where helpful. A drum kit may need
several channels, while an amplifier shown on the drawing may
require only one. Check every row against your real setup.
Write monitor requirements in plain language: identify the
performer, the mix number and what they need to hear. The stage
plot maker stores these as notes; it does not configure a mixing
console. Confirm available outputs and monitoring equipment with
the person handling sound.
3. Review and Download Your Show Pack
Before exporting from the stage plot maker, add a contact, check
channel order and review production notes. Preview the PDF or
PNG to inspect every page. Make sure labels are readable and the
venue can tell which requirements are essential, which are
preferences, and which equipment your band will bring.
Save an editable backup from the stage plot maker as well as
your finished export. Send the show pack through your usual
email or messaging service. If the lineup changes, update the
project and send a replacement with a clear filename so the crew
knows which version to use.
Stage Plot Maker Templates for Your Band
The stage plot maker includes starting layouts for a four-piece band
and an acoustic duo, plus a blank stage. These templates are
editable examples, not fixed technical specifications. Choose the
closest arrangement, remove anything you do not need, and check the
supplied input list before sharing it.
Four-Piece Band
Start with drums, bass, guitar and a lead vocal, with amplifiers
and monitors already positioned. This stage plot maker template
helps you establish the basic arrangement before adding extra
vocals or other equipment. Replace generic labels with names or
roles that your band and the venue will both recognize.
Acoustic Duo
Choose the smaller stage plot maker template for a guitar and
vocal arrangement, then adapt it to your performers. Specify how
the acoustic instrument connects and whether the singer needs a
straight or boom stand. Add a second vocal or instrument if your
actual duo requires another input.
Blank Stage
Use a blank stage plot maker project when an example lineup
would create more cleanup than it saves. Build the layout around
your own performers and equipment, then add input rows
deliberately. Switching templates replaces the current layout;
save a backup first if you want to keep a separate version.
A stage drawing shows positions; an input list describes audio
sources and connections. The stage plot maker lets you edit both
without maintaining separate documents. Linking a channel to an item
helps connect a numbered input with its position, especially when
several microphones or similar instruments appear on stage.
For example, label a vocal microphone with the performer’s name,
then use the same name in the source column. Record a preferred
microphone only when that choice matters, and note acceptable
alternatives where appropriate. In the stage plot maker, reorder or
renumber channels to reflect the patch order agreed with your
engineer.
Do not assume one symbol means one input. Stereo equipment can need
two channels, and a drum kit can need several microphones. The stage
plot maker leaves those decisions editable. Its checklist helps you
review missing details, but it cannot determine whether your audio
patch or monitor plan is technically correct.
Download a PDF from the Stage Plot Maker
The stage plot maker exports a show pack containing your layout,
contact details, input list, monitor mixes and production notes. PDF
keeps the pages in one file for a venue handoff. PNG uses the same
content and layout, with a separate download for each page when the
pack spans multiple pages.
Use the stage plot maker preview to check the final output rather
than judging only the editing canvas. Long notes or extra inputs can
create additional pages. Read the pack as someone who has never met
your band: can they identify the contact, place the equipment and
understand the requested connections?
Keep the editable JSON backup alongside your exports. A PDF or PNG
is a finished document; the backup is what you reopen in the stage
plot maker to continue editing. Use a descriptive filename for each
show and keep the latest agreed version somewhere your band can find
it.
What Should a Stage Plot Include?
Use this checklist when reviewing your stage plot maker project. Aim
for enough detail to prepare the show without burying important
requests in unrelated notes. If something depends on the venue, flag
it for discussion instead of treating it as confirmed equipment.
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Show identity and contact. Include a recognizable
band name and someone who can answer technical questions.
-
Performer and equipment positions. Label similar
items clearly and keep the audience orientation consistent.
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Audio inputs. Check sources, channel numbers,
microphone or DI choices, stands and any special connection notes.
-
Monitor requirements. Identify mixes and
performers, and explain any requirements the sound engineer should
discuss with you.
-
Backline and production notes. State what you
bring and what you are asking the venue to provide.
-
Final agreement. Confirm changes with the crew
and replace outdated copies before the show.
The stage plot maker gives these details a shared home. It does not
replace a conversation about available space, equipment or
changeover time. Resolve any uncertain requirements with the venue
before relying on the exported plan.
Stage Plot Maker FAQ
Is this stage plot maker free?
Yes. You can use the editor and download PDF or PNG show packs
without payment, an account or a watermark. Save a project backup
if you want to keep an editable copy outside the browser.
Do I need to install the stage plot maker?
No installation is required. The editor runs in your web browser
with JavaScript enabled. Start from a template or a blank layout
on this page, then edit the equipment, input list and notes for
your show.
Does the stage plot maker save my work?
Your current project saves automatically in this browser when
storage is available. Clearing browser data can remove it. Use
Save backup to download an editable JSON file, especially before
changing browsers, switching templates or leaving for a show.
Can I move a stage plot maker project to another device?
Download the JSON file using Save backup, transfer it to the other
device, and choose Open project in the editor. Browser storage
does not synchronize between devices. Keep your backup until you
have checked that the imported project contains the details you
need.
What does the stage plot maker export?
PDF and PNG include the same show pack: the stage layout, contact
details, input list, monitor notes and production notes. Preview
every page before downloading. A multi-page PNG pack has a
separate download button for each page.
Is a stage plot the same as an input list?
No. A plot shows equipment positions, while an input list
identifies audio sources and connection requirements. This stage
plot maker keeps them together so the venue can compare the
drawing with the channel list without opening separate documents.
Are the stage plot maker drawings to scale?
No. The layout is a schematic. Stage dimensions provide context,
and resizing icons helps readability, but the drawing is not a
measured floor plan. Confirm actual equipment footprints and
available space with the venue before finalizing your arrangement.
Can I send the result to my sound engineer?
Yes. Download your show pack from the stage plot maker and attach
it to your usual email or message. Include any questions that
still need agreement. The editor does not send messages or create
a public project sharing link.
Give Your Next Show a Clear Plan
Open the stage plot maker above, choose a starting layout, and turn
your band’s setup into a show pack the venue can review.
Create Your Stage Plot