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Thread: Templates

  1. #1
    Join Date
    Dec 2015
    Location
    Northeast AL
    Posts
    86

    Templates

    What is your favorite material for making templates and why?

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Feb 2006
    Location
    DFW, TX
    Posts
    176
    Usually depends on what kind of template that I'm making.
    For ones that I'm using to just draw a pattern, I'll use 1/8" hardboard.
    It's easily shaped and is stiff enough to last.

    For those that I'm going to use as a routing template, I'll use 1/2" MDF.
    Again, easily shaped and thick enough for the roller bearings to ride on.
    It's never too late to have a happy childhood.

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Mar 2003
    Location
    Upland CA
    Posts
    5,548
    Ditto to Chris' method.

    If I plan to route a LOT of parts from the template I use baltic birch, as the MDF will eventually start to dent on the edges.
    Rick Potter

    DIY journeyman,
    FWW wannabe.
    AKA Village Idiot.

  4. #4
    Join Date
    Nov 2007
    Location
    NW Indiana
    Posts
    3,078
    I like MDF and will give it a quick coat of shellac to harden the surface. I also will use Baltic Birch.

  5. #5
    Join Date
    Feb 2006
    Location
    DFW, TX
    Posts
    176
    Forgot to add that when I use MDF, I either put a glue size on the edge to keep it from denting, or spray the whole thing with a poly coat.
    It's never too late to have a happy childhood.

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