Constructing a megatree

[SantaClaws]

I have tried various materials in an attempt to build a mega tree.

My latest iteration consisted of 16 x 2.4m lengths aluminium (12mm x 12mm) angle for the uprights.
The base is a bicycle wheel rim, with a 36mm vinyl builders strip (Bunnings) rolled into a circle as a centre (height) brace and also a smaller diameter top circle of vinyl
The LED strings are attached to the aluminium uprights with double-sided (very sticky) strip

But, I have found them to be far too flimsy.

What do other members use to fabricate their masterpieces?

Oh, woe is me. It appears I have been wrong all along!!
I am now going to build a central pole with a top-cap, then hang the strings instead of trying to support them - wheeeee!

Thank you for your patience.

 

[Merlin]

Hey @SantaClaws

I’m currently building a mega tree for xmas 2021 - been quite a learning journey because I’m new to the hobby and it’s my very first RBG pixel project!

How tall are you planning for your tree to be? How many strands and pixels per strand? Are you using pixel mount strips?
Aluminium is light weight so its easier to handle, but will it be tough enough for your materials??

For me, I’m targeting 3m height, 22 strands at just over 180degrees, 50 nodes per strand, 1inch-2.5cm node distance - I’m expecting this to be rather heavy, consequently I‘m going to use some pretty robust materials -
Pole: 40NB galvanised pipe;
Base: Either heavy duty market umbrella base, or portable hole. I prefer the portable hole, but haven’t figured out a cheap, effective way to secure the 40NB galvanised pipe - i may end up just buying the umbrella base to save time;
Frame: 6ft trampoline, with 45cm legs;
Raise/lowering mechanism: none, as it’s only 3m

I’ve calculated that my mega tree top will be rather heavy (approx 20kg or so) so I’ve also sourced a 5mm steel tree topper from this forum (not going to build my own and leave to chance), and will be using steel wire and hex pegs to secure the pole (guy wires)

 

[ozzimadman]

do everyone build round mega trees i went for a flat tree not to save space just looks cooler as i don't have a "matrix" so it serves 2 purposes tree and matrix

 

[Jayxdallis]

hey @SantaClaws

I did mine this year, 5m strips 6.2m pole. I concreted into the ground a 65x65x6mm socket just under the surface of the ground the pole is 50x50x4mm SHS and the topper is 6mm plate CNC cut & welded to 40x40x4mm SHS that slots all together & pinned with bolts also at the top are brackets to take 3.2mm SS Wire rope on all four sides as guy wire also pinning it down.

I have 32 strips @ 270* 2" spacing and happy with this result. lately wind & weather has been gusty where I live and there is no sign of fatigue on any of this. It takes two people 30seconds to put the pole up with no moving bits to fail & it is scary as hell standing atop a 12ft scaffolding ladder and just reaching the hooks with your finger tips so some better planning is needed for next year!

 

[Jayxdallis]

x2

 

[i13]

I listed a few forum threads that document mega tree designs here: https://auschristmaslighting.com/threads/13452/

 

[jollyzee]

I'm almost done with mine. 20 strands, 150 pixels per strand on pixel mounting strips (3000 pixels - yes my fingers are hurting!) with 1 inch spacing, because my tree (a REAL tree) is also my pole and is only 15 feet (about 5 meters) from the street. I think it should be denser if the prop is closer to the viewer and can be less dense if the prop is further away. It's all personal preference after all.