How to create Pampanga's Lantern using convert lines to tubes and extrude lines along vector

Pampanga, Philippines is known for each giant parol or lantern, the biggest in the world. Since Christmas is coming, I decided to do Christmas models particularly from the Philippines. This model is easy and can be done in multiple approaches. However, I would like to share my workflow especially in using some scripts that automates the steps. I would like to introduce 2 useful scripts; "convert lines to tubes" and "extrude lines along vector" which are both free. HERE is a good place to download them.

Step 1. The model
Here is a 2d model of the parol that I will be modeling.



Step 2: Tracing the Lines
Since we have the reference image, all we need is to trace each lines. I applied semi transparent material so that I can see what I am tracing below. After tracing on part, I will copy and rotate it 4 times.


Here is the finished lines and arcs




Step 3: Convert Lines into tubes
Using the script convert lines into tubes, I will convert the traced lines into cylinders basically.



In order to optimize the number of sides, I only used precision 4 (4 sides)


Here is an image showing the converted lines into tubes.





Close up




Step 4: Copying, mirroring and adding the sides.
I copied the completed face and made it into component. Then I flipped the copy using mirror tool. I added the sides using "extrude line along vector". Again this is a shortcut of doing faces.





Here is the finish model.


Details