Hi all, I just got Carrara2 and have read the manual and have been playing....But I must be missing something simple with spline modeling...Cause I just dont get it.. All I want to do is create a column.. loft across different shapes like start with a square then a circle then a square and then twist the middle... Like a greek roman column...I must be missing something.. I create the first cross section...how do i create differnt shapes on cross sections down the line... Any help Fleanbilly

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in order to create shapes on different cross sections you have to convert points on the extrusion path to cross sections. -use the pointer tool (t) to select the pink line that defines the legnth of the extrusion. -to create a cross section on the last point, click once on it, (it doesn't look like you selected it, but you did) and pull down Sections:Create from the menu. -boom! new section created. now you can click on it, and the drawin plane moves to it. you can modify it or delete it and redraw a new one. -if you want sections in the middle of the line, you can add them with the Add Point tool (+), and then create sections there. -you can also draw with the pen tool to add points to the extrusion path (provided you've already selected it). new points will be connected to the end point. so keep that in mind when beginning your object. i hope that helps. the spline modeler can kind of be a pain in the butt. i started there because i was afraid of the vertex modeler and thought splines were easier. -pix by the way, i hope everyone realizes my comment about manual reading is not a dig at anyone asking beginner questions. i totally don't mind helping with the most basic question.

OK....i must be truly stupid....i get the concept..read the posts....but every time i add a point to the extrustion path... then i, from the menu, create a cross section..reselect the point on the path, the drawing plane that comes up is the first point plane...if i add a shape it is on the same plane as the first shape.... I cant seem to get a drwing plane from any of the middle points?? what am i doing wrong here????? Thanks Fleanbilly

Sometimes it is difficult to select a cross-section in the directors camera if your at an odd angle. Try holding down the 'D' key while you swing the mouse and see if a different angle helps you click on one of the cross-sections there. If you've selected a new cross-section there, you will get that section active in your 'front' veiwpoint. Or, go to the 'sections' menu and chose 'show > current.' Then use the 'sections' menu again to chose 'next' or 'previous.' This way you will definitly only choose the one you want. I also work with the mini-corner window and the 3/4 main window option. That way I can change what veiw I want to work on in the main section, while also having the directors veiw available to see what my changes are affecting. I hope this helps. Have fun! :>