as i understand there is no way to instance fur with any other geometry…however i was wondering if there is a way to apply a texture map to each individual strand of fur?

Why do you think, that fur does not allow geometry replacing? You may use copy-sop with stamping and creep-sop for example, to place geometry to path. You may use switch-sop to choose different geometry for instansing.

thanks joemi …. that helps … am trying to figure out your file….and trying to instance in tubes.