PDA

View Full Version : Templates



richard b miller
02-13-2017, 10:36 AM
What is your favorite material for making templates and why?

Chris Schoenthal
02-13-2017, 12:50 PM
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.

Rick Potter
02-14-2017, 12:06 PM
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.

Larry Frank
02-15-2017, 12:25 AM
I like MDF and will give it a quick coat of shellac to harden the surface. I also will use Baltic Birch.

Chris Schoenthal
02-15-2017, 7:28 AM
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.