u/DefundTheUSPS

I've started branching out beyond the three templates I have and was wondering what you guys do to get new templates?

It seems like in order from cheapest to most expensive (which coincidentally happens to be the same order as ranking them from easiest to hardest) would be

1 - Buying templates (most of the ones I can find are pricy)

2 - Make your own CAD file and have it be laser cut for you (I don't have access to a laser cutter)

3 - Print out a paper schematic and then duplicate it

What do you guys do? I'm thinking I may take a break from historical designs and do my own thing from scratch on account of the sheer cost of templates.

Shot in the dark, but I build electric guitars as a hobby and was looking to connect with local luthiers. I know we have some fantastic professional luthiers and shops here (Clipper Guitars, Rockbridge, Dubova, etc.), but I'm specifically hoping to meet fellow amateurs who work on instruments in their garage/basement on weekends, no sales pitch or paid work expected-just looking to join a little local maker community.

I mostly work with local woods, transparent finishes, and woodburning instead of inlays. I'm by no means an expert, but I'm always looking to learn more and one day want to start branching out to acoustics.

DM me if you are interested, Bonus points if you've got a cool project that you want to talk about.

I like the look of the EBMM Stingray II guitar and would like to build my own from scratch, albeit with a few changes.

I can't find any anywhere, so I was wondering what the best path forward is. Here are my ideas in descending order of what I think is best.

1 - Commission a custom template set. If I can find a good company, this seems my best best, but probably priciest

2 - Generate my own schematics for a template and get it laser cut. A lot of work, and I'd have to get my hands on a real Ray II.

3 - Make my own schematic, print it on paper, and hand make my own templates

4 - Use a bass template for the body. I think the Ray bass and Ray guitar might use the same body size.

Anyone with experience can point me in the right direction?