Thread: Using templates

Try using some double sided carpet tape..........sticky on both sides........AL

toughest part is getting the template off the workpiece. I use thicker MDF now after breaking a few templates.

Double sided scotch tape can work, but has a tendency to slip at just the wrong moments, and really should be backed up by at least one clamp.

Tex

Yea,I go along with what you said Tex.Was making zero clearance plate for T/S...nearly had a hernia getting the plate off the MDF luckily it didnt break.Next time used 1/2 inch wide tape instead of inch and a half with good results..............AL

Originally Posted by trollhameran

Alot of my designs for pieces have lots of curves and shapes that are repeated several times on a piece, so I often make an mdf template and then use a bearing cutter in a router to shape the pieces, but with some pieces it is difficult to clamp the template to the work piece without the clamps getting in the way of the router, so I am wondering if anyone has any other methods of attaching the template to the work piece which would eliminate this problem.

Post some pics of what you are trying to do to give us an idea of he various sizes of material and cut-out you require.
I have a method I have developed using what I call a jig holder with the material secured inside then a template covering the material also held secure in the Jig Holder, then working with template guides to guide the cutter. The jig holder can be screwed to the bench or sacrificial board and therefore elliminating the use of clamps.

Tom

Another way to clamp awkward templates: Make two-part templates with the clamped region of each portion in safe territory, and overlap the meeting region to avoid gaps in cutting. You'll need some form of registration to assure the meeting regions match; or, just clamp the template for the second cut to mate with the first. A cusp in the design at the meeting region should reduce mis-match.

Cheers,
Joe

Hot-melt glue also works. Just a few dabs, one in each corner type of thing.

Separating is as simple as a quick, sharp rap on the side of the template with a mallet and then peeling off the residue.

Thanks guys. I was hesitant to use hot glue or double sided tape before i knew that other people had done it, i didn't want the work piece to go flying across the room