Yep, another newbie

[TRJ]

Hello everyone. I am in the initial stages, i.e., research. I have the latest Xlights user manual (I think, it says v 2016.45). I have done industrial PLC and HMI programming and a lot of the usage of the software is similar enough that I can get by, at least starting out. My greatest obstacle so far is determining what hardware to be looking into.
I am, of course, looking for suggestions. I think I will be downloading the Xlights software, after that it's just a guess. Probably I should state here what it is I would like  to accomplish.
I want to start out with an arch, which will turn into arches. I also would like to try a mega tree, and after that some singing faces. (Or are these too ambitious for a newbie?)
Can anyone suggest software (if there is something better than Xlights and it has to be free or cheap!), hardware, for instance I don't even know what hardware needs to be bought.
 I think I need a programming computer (check), a(some) controller(s), lights. It looks like there are a ton of lights and controllers out there, so any help in finding the most cost effective (and probably the easiest for a newbie) to acquire. I think I can work out the initial channel count, but hopefully with help I can actually do the project.

[bwinter]

Start with what you want for your display to LOOK like (both immediately, and potential expansion).  House outline (ie, just the roof, or every nook-and-cranny)?  Props (arches, large trees, small trees, stars, toppers, etc)?

Draw/map that out, so you have a sense of what your needs are (versus what your budget is).

THEN you can spec out the details to make it happen (LEDs, controllers, etc).  Software-wise, there?s nothing you need to buy.  But play around with the software some too (before building anything)?you?ll get some ideas there too, if what you may want in your show (before you commit to anything).

[TRJ]

OK thanx, I really wanted to know the first few steps and your answer is what I needed. So I should download the software and inert a pic of my home and this should be all I need for now I guess.
Thanx again