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Fractal Family

by imare32·Modeling

Images © imare32. Used for product review; image policy.

Why we like it

Fractal Family stands out in the Blender extensions library for turning complex integer lattices into fractal curves, with Gaussian and Eisenstein grids drawn from Jeffrey Ventrella's research.

What is Fractal Family?

Fractal Family is a Blender extension for creating fractal curves built on complex integer lattices. Drawing on Jeffrey Ventrella's research, it lets you explore the "family tree" of fractal curves through recursive substitution on Gaussian (square) or Eisenstein (triangular) grids.

Configuration starts from built-in presets such as Koch Curve, Dragon Curve, and Gosper Island. You set the domain grid, a recursion level from 1 to 20, and a spline type of Poly linear segments or Smooth Bezier splines. An optional initiator curve can replace the straight-line base shape, and a real-time preview shows the result while you edit the generator. The generator itself is a sequence of complex integers paired with Reverse and Mirror transform flags.

Three generation modes cover different needs: create the final curve at the chosen level, create separate objects for every level from 0 to N, or create a single curve with Shape Keys whose Evaluation Time property animates the fractal's growth. The panel sits in the 3D Viewport sidebar under the Edit tab.

Who is Fractal Family best for?

Fractal Family is best for blender artists creating fractal curves on complex integer lattices, from preset classics to custom generators.

How much does Fractal Family cost?

Fractal Family is completely free to download and use.

Key features

  • Built-in presets including Koch Curve, Dragon Curve, and Gosper Island
  • Domain choice between a Gaussian square grid and an Eisenstein triangular/hexagonal grid
  • Recursion depth adjustable from level 1 to 20
  • Spline type set to Poly (linear segments) or Smooth (Bezier splines)
  • Optional custom initiator curve as the base shape instead of a straight line
  • Generator editing with complex integers plus Reverse and Mirror transform flags
  • Three generation modes: last level, each level, or a curve with Shape Keys for morphing

Tags

#fractals#fractal curves#curves#procedural#Blender extension#recursion#Koch curve#dragon curve

Frequently asked questions

Does Fractal Family work with Blender 4.2?

Fractal Family is compatible with Blender 4.2 LTS and newer, so recent Blender releases can run it. The add-on ships as a Blender extension and requires no special permissions. Once enabled, its panel appears in the 3D Viewport sidebar (press N) under the Edit tab, listed as Fractal Family. If you're running an older Blender build, you'd need to update to 4.2 LTS or later before installing. The developer's GitHub page lists the current version and any compatibility notes.

How do I install Fractal Family in Blender?

Fractal Family installs like other Blender extensions: you can drag and drop the add-on into Blender, or download the package and use Install from Disk in Blender's extension preferences. After installation, open the 3D Viewport sidebar with the N key and switch to the Edit tab to find the Fractal Family panel. The developer suggests working in Top View (Numpad 7) for a better experience while building curves. Full source and downloads are available on the developer's GitHub page.

Does Fractal Family support Hilbert curves or L-Systems?

Fractal Family supports Edge Replacement fractals on complex integer lattices in the X-Y plane. It does not directly support L-Systems or Node Replacement fractals, which includes the standard Hilbert Curve. If your goal is one of those fractal types, this add-on isn't built for that specific method. For the fractal families it does cover, it offers Gaussian square grids and Eisenstein triangular grids, preset classics, and recursion levels up to 20.

Can Fractal Family animate a fractal growing?

Fractal Family includes a Create Curve with Shape Keys mode that produces a single object capable of morphing. The add-on automatically configures the Shape Keys and disables Relative mode, then exposes an Evaluation Time property below the button. Animating that property grows the fractal over time. If you'd rather keep each stage as its own object, the Create Each Level mode generates separate objects for every level from 0 to N instead.

Is Fractal Family free to use?

Fractal Family is listed as free here and is released under the GNU General Public License v3.0 or later. That license covers how you can use, modify, and redistribute the add-on. For the current terms and the latest version, check the developer's GitHub page. The extension requires no special permissions in Blender, so it doesn't ask for extra access when installed.

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