I lost my Compass, so i had to try and explain without one...
you will be using 0 60 120 and 180 degrees with a protractor to do this with 6 cells
you will be using 0 45 90 145 and 180 degrees with a protractor to do this with 8 cells.
you can use a tube in the middle, that would make the 6 tube design hold 7 cells and the 8 tube hold 9, if you choose to do this you should notch the sides so that water can get underneath the top and bottom holder, you should also make a bottom holder.
ideal materials for holders are Acrylic sheets about 1/8th thick, a 1' carpenter drill bit is used to drill the holes. it is up to you to space the tubes so they want hit, you should use a compass to draw a circle from point A and B all the way around, then do it again for your Container.