Wheel Building - Double Snowflake

Maybe i should lace up one side, then the other with a 3x or radial for the time being, tension the spokes, loosen, remove the non 'flake side, then lace up with the new pattern, fingers crossed the other side would have bedded in by then, allowing me to use same length spokes that theoretically should now reach the nipples....

I was just about to suggest this then I reread you post and say you have the same idea. I'd go radial for the ease of replacing the spoke with your new pattern.

When you have once side snow flaked and the other three crossed maybe don't un-build hate entire wheel but do a set of 4 spoke or what ever the minimum amount your can do as a "set"?

Does that make sense?