There are usually 2 steps to the templating process:
Creating a template - either copying an original piece by overlaying paper and tracing the underlying form or designing something new from a drawing / design.
Transferring the design to the sheet metal.
Template Creation
Templates can be created in a couple of different ways -
Drawn in CAD software (not the cardboard type but on an actual computer).
Laid out with a ruler and marker / pen / pencil.
Copied from an original panel by tracing features and details.
Template Transferring
There are a number of different ways you can transfer a pattern from a template to your sheet metal, depending on the process you will be using to work the metal and tools available. Some of those methods are -
Use a projector to project a design onto a piece of sheet metal.
Use a ruler and marker to draw a design onto the sheet metal.
Cut a vinyl pattern on a sticker / decal cutter, apply the vinyl to the sheet metal and then trace before removing the vinyl.
Trace a paper / cardboard pattern with a center / prick punch
We carry a number of tools and accessories that can make both the creating of templates and the transferring of templates a bit easier for you.
