How do you shorten the center section of object 1 to look like object 2 where the outer portions move rather than stretching them like in part 3.

Unless you have some particular reason not to, I wouldn't bother using stretch deformations for that. In object 1, I would simply delete the center faces so you're only left with the two ends, then I would move the top down to where you need it and then rebuild the connection with a Bridge Edge Loops. It should only take a few seconds to do.

Making sure everything is selected and scale along the z- axis that is all that is coming to mind

Another option might be just to select the entire top half of the object in edit mode, then use proportional editing, and use G+Z to move it down on the Z axis, then use the mouse wheel to adjust the proportions. That might be the fastest way.

Lobo3433 posted at 8:18PM Tue, 01 September 2020 - #4398394

Making sure everything is selected and scale along the z- axis that is all that is coming to mind

Yes, but that will still "squash" the bulb shapes. Try just selecting the top half of the object, enable proportional editing and then just move the top part closer, adjusting the proportions as you go with your mouse wheel.

If Proportional edit doesn't work, just delete those faces in that center part until you're left with only the two ends. Then move the top-end closer, and use Bridge Edge Loops. You can adjust the cuts and the way it blends into the other object. This way, the two ends stay the same shape.

Here's a video of what I mean in case it isn't clear. Sometimes it's hard to explain.

The only thing with this is that the UV's would have to be rebuilt.

Boy, I wish there were "like" buttons on this forum! You guys are awesome!