"patterns to path" only streches pattern from endpoint to endpoint of path

Asked by clbvnkk

I'm trying to stretch a long thin triangle along a path to create a sort of tapered path from end to end. I can manage, following the tutorials everywhere, to pattern a polygon along a path, with multiple copies repeated. I then switch the mode to single stretched, and it just joins the endpoints of my path. It will not follow the path, though it seems some users have mimicked Adobe's brushes by creating a shape and stretching it along the path to create an organic looking "stroke". I've tried the Effects>Generate from Path>Pattern along Path in Inkscape 0.46 also, in the same release, others recommend the Path>Path Effects>Pattern to Path route, which I have also tried numerous times. Neither way gives the result I'm looking for, and causes me great distress.
I can email a screen shot of my failed attempts either both dialouge box open to show that I'm not doing it wrong if necessary. Please explain. Thank you.
Caleb

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clbvnkk (clbvnkk) said :
#1

Also, even though it has been deemed outdated by the new release, i DID select the pattern before the path, as well as made sure that the pattern was above the path on the z-layers

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clbvnkk (clbvnkk) said :
#2

Well. Nothing like solving a little problem solving! I read through a million page read-me file that was in the source file for Inkscape detailing the new features of 0.46 The problem that I was having, and nobody seems to realize, is that you must follow these steps:

FIRST copy the pattern to the Inkscape Clipboard.
THEN select the (skeleton) path.
NOW call the command for Pattern to Path under this menu:
Path>Path Effects>Pattern to Path.
Click paste to path option and you will see your pattern pasted onto the path with the original path glowing red.
Original path is still "live" and editable unlike former releases of Inkscape.

SOLVED!! Happy Inkscaping!