The distortion you're experiencing when pasting vertex positions between meshes of different sizes is expected behavior. Since the beads/crystals image has different dimensions than the hat, the vertex positions won't map correctly.
Here are your best options:
1. Standardize Image Sizes
The most efficient approach is to make both images the same dimensions in your image editor. Add transparent padding around the smaller image to match the larger one's size. Once they're identical in size:
- You can use the paste vertex positions feature more effectively
- Better yet, you could use linked meshes by placing them in different slots (just make sure the images are exactly the same size)
- If you still need them in separate slots for visibility, duplicate the hat mesh and replace its image path to the beads image
2. Use the Weld Feature (Spine 4.2+)
If you're using Spine 4.2 or later, the Weld feature can help match weights across meshes, making them deform identically. This is simpler than manually copying and pasting weights:
- Both meshes need to be bound to at least the same two or more bones
- Select one mesh and use the
Weld button with either All or Overlapping option
Watch this video for instructions:
3. Manual Setup (If Different Sizes Required)
If you need to keep different image sizes:
- Create the mesh and bind weights for the hat first
- Duplicate the hat mesh attachment
- Replace the duplicated mesh's image path to point to the beads image
- Manually adjust the vertex positions to fit the beads image correctly
- The weights will be preserved from the original mesh, so you won't need to rebind them
The standardized image size approach is generally most efficient for this type of setup, as it eliminates alignment issues and allows for easier workflow.
