I haven't used a template. Seems like every time I decide to make a bow I end up wanting another design and make a new form. The forms are stacking up. A template would be an advantage if I ever decide to make several bows of the same design though. I just mark the center down the back and use my aluminum yard stick to lay out the limbs to my marks at the fades and tips. When or if I do make a template I would probably use clear glass and smooth the sanded side and spray poly on it to see through it to line it up with the center line. I would use glass so it will never warp from moisture. If you use an opaque non-warpable material you could drill small holes on center at the ends to use to line up on the center line of the limbs.