VCAD Lab

VCAD (Virginia State Center for Art & Design) is a creative hub designed for art and design majors. Located in the basement of Lockett Hall, VCAD was built by graphic designers who envisioned a collaborative and innovative space that would become an essential part of the VSU experience. 

At VCAD, students have access to a dedicated environment where they can print, study after hours, and collaborate on future projects. In addition to serving students, we also provide design and print services to on-campus clients. These projects help fund and sustain the lab while giving students valuable, hands-on experience with the full design-to-print workflow—preparing them for real-world creative careers. 

VCAD Lab

Lockett Hall, room 004
9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Monday thru Thursday

Connect With Us 
Email:vcadlab@vsu.edu 
Instagram:@vcad.vsu 

Staff
Alaiza Washington
Lab & Print Shop Manager
amwashington@vsu.edu

Submit Your File

More Info

Payment
We accept payments through department budget modifications.

Pick-Up
Once your project is complete, you will receive a notification via email. If the lab is closed, prints will be placed at the designated pick-up station.

Policies & Procedures

The Space
Our lab includes:

  • Xerox Versant 180 with production booklet maker
  • HP DesignJet large-format printer
  • Guillotine paper cutter
  • Small computer lab
  • Multiple work areas for a variety of creative projects (Dimension)
  • Scanner
  • Lightbox
  • Electric stapler

Printing & Production

  • Wide-Format Printing:
  • Up to 42” roll paper, 6 HP Vivid Photo Inks, HP Pixel Control
  • Xerox Versant 180: High-quality digital printing with booklet production
  • Finishing Options: Binding, cutting, and mounting

Submitting project requests

Project submissions:
  • Submit your request and materials to the VCAD Ticketing system.
  • Provide final text, correct dimensions, and any branding guidelines. (We will contact you if your files are not print-ready).
  • Allow a minimum of two weeks for design + production. 
File Requirements
  • Submit files in PDF and design elements in PNG, or vector formats (depending on project type).
  • High-resolution images only (300dpi recommended).
Payment & Budget Process
  • Print and design work is processed through budget modifications.
  • Special materials must be provided to due to ordering process time. (You will be notified if you need to order your materials).
Turnaround Times
  • Standard projects: two to three weeks.
  • Large-scale, specialty, or event projects: varies; earlier is recommended.
  • Rush orders may not be accepted depending on staff availability. A 25%- 50% rush fee may apply depending on the complexity of the project.

Lab Hours & Access
  • Open Monday–Thursday during posted hours.
  • Closed Fridays, weekends, and holidays.
  • Sign-in is required at the front desk.
  • Art & Design majors have priority access.
  • Non-majors must receive approval from lab staff before using equipment.
Space Rules & Etiquette
  • Maintain a clean and respectful environment.
  • No food or open drinks near equipment.
  • Push in chairs, wipe surfaces, and dispose of trash when leaving.
  • Personal items must not be left behind.
  • Do not remove any tools or materials from the lab.
Equipment Use Policies (Computers & Software)
  • Save your work to external drives or cloud storage.
  • Do not install any unapproved software.
  • Report technical issues immediately.
Project Assistance
  • Staff are available during operating hours for:
    • File prep assistance.
    • Design feedback.
    • Troubleshooting equipment.
    • Project consultations.
  • For major projects, schedule an appointment in advance.

Print & Project Pickup
Completed work must be picked up within 7 business days After 7 days, VCAD is not responsible for storing materials

Accountability
  • Using the VCAD Lab means agreeing to all posted policies.
  • Violations may result in:
    • Temporary or permanent loss of lab access.
    • Restrictions on equipment use.
    • Being reported to faculty, depending on the severity.

Art and Design Department

About Art and Design About Us - Department of Art and Design Mission Statement Contact Us Student Opportunities
Academics Major Concentrations Studio Arts Concentration Animation Concentration Graphic Design Concentration Minor Concentrations
Resources Resources Department of Art and Design - Faculty & Staff Computer Lab Meredith Art Gallery Careers in Art and Design