Template material?

[Sugarbaker]

Hi all, I’m looking at remaking my most used templates for some future builds. Historically I’ve used 1/8” hardboard, but find that the templates take up a ton of space when stored and would like a better solution. Keep in mind that I cut these out at home with typical wood working tools (that is to say I wouldn’t have a good way to fabricate templates out of metal...I could probably manage aluminum). Any recommendations?

[ken mcneill]

I use .040 polystyrene, which can be cut with a razor knife. Once I get a good shape, I glue it to a second layer with the curve (from being rolled up) going the opposite way, to make it stay flat and make for a better edge to cut against. I've learned how to cut with them and not cut up my patterns. I got something like 800 Mambas out of my original set from Apr 2000.

[Sugarbaker]

I will look into this... Since I stopped using a hot cutter for PC31, this sounds like a good option. I imagine I will destroy one or two as I get used to cutting around them, but they are easily remade.

[Photomom]

Where do you get the polystyrene? This sounds like a good way to replace some of my cardboard templates.

Karen M.

[ken mcneill]

Where do you get the polystyrene? This sounds like a good way to replace some of my cardboard templates.

I've bought from several plastics distributors over the years. Most large towns will have one.

I buy large sheets, either 40x70" or 48x96". The thin stuff can be rolled up to fit in the back seat of a car. Even rolled, it's a large, possibly heavy, package and is expensive to ship.

I had a lucky Google search when it became crazy expensive to ship big bulky packages via UPS, and found a local sign supply company that stocks it.

[craigkite]

Ken, can the templates you make from 2 layers of poly sheeting be rolled for storage? I noted that you overcome the "elastic memory" by using 2 layers with rolls in different direction. The OP asked about storage issues, and I can't think of a solution, other than creating a shelf system for under the bed. We are not all lucky enough to have Jon Trennepohl's Blue Print drawers under the cutting table,

[ken mcneill]

Ken, can the templates you make from 2 layers of poly sheeting be rolled for storage...

I'll clamp all of the pattern pieces for a kite together using a 'Pony' clamp and hang them from a nail.