Hello Shawn

I have done a project using similar led chains. These, however, are done using a relative of the WS2812 you mention. The IC controller I worked with is the SM16716. These leds are pretty easy to control. If you search a bit, you will find a bit of code for each type of IC. Timing is not critical.

This is how the leds are controlled. (arduino code)
Code:
static void show() {
  digitalWriteFast(DATA_PIN, LOW);
  for (int i = 0; i < 50; i++) {
    toggle_clock();
  }
  for (int i = 0; i < LIGHT_COUNT; ++i) {
    write_pixel(i);
  }
  write_blank_pixel();
  delay(1);
}