Stuck on modeling mini trees with odd numbered zig zags

[Charles Belcher]

Gil/Keith/Anyone,

I am adding Gilbert Engineering mini trees with mini stars this year.

I am doing 180 degree trees and only want to use 100 pixels per tree with 20 pixels for each star thus I am using one 120 pixel string per tree.

I can do 8 vertical rows of 13 for 104 nodes or
I can do 8 vertical rows of 12 for 96 nodes

Neither of these model well with the built in tree template (unless I don't know how to do it)

I need 8 rows to cover the viewing areas in a form that leaves me with 20 nodes for the mini-stars.

I can use the polyline and make 8 alternating segments of 12 and 13 and come out with exactly 100 nodes but the spiral and other effects don't make the correct pattern (I tried all the available buffer renders)

Suggestions?  As always, I give my appreciation in advance.  I have tried lots of combinations, so I make have myself confused....

Charles

[keithsw1111]

The tree model expects all strings and strands to be the same length. Your only choice is custom but model it as a virtual matrix don?t try to make it look tree like.

[charlie-68]

Charles, I'm responding to your post as I have a prop much like yours, only mine is a candle I made. The body is a matrix 3 X 20 pixels with a flame of 10 pixels on top. I modeled it as 2 seperate props. a matrix and a custom model. then daisy chained them together and in xlights just connect them  in the controller set up tab. I know I'm replying late but I do not look much in this part of the forum, but thought this might help if you not solved the question. Merry Christmas  Charlie J.