It is easy ..you have to ask yourself [in view of the experience you describe with that local guy] could it be any worse by ordering a very reasonably-priced system from Toplace ? What have you to lose ? You probably paid a high price for that crap system..... why don`t you book a video -consultation with Debbie and I`m sure she`d be able to talk you through making your template......I can assure you your system will look fine as long as you order the correct colour,density, and style ..Debbie will give you expert advice on those issues.....Toplace systems are high -quality all round. Making your own template is quite straight-forward....plenty good pics etc. on the `info links`` for newbies link/`sticky` up the top there... Paul.