well for one lace can stretch so I think making the system a little bit smaller than ur balding area can help with the overlapping issue. As far as it being easier or not with tapes.. u just have to figure what kind of tape u will be using and what contour. I can't see it being a real bother unless u have a very irregular shaped bald pattern.. I am sure one of the contours will fit ur template properly.. usually the CC contours work nice for the corners or angles of the hair system,, while straight tape usually is fine for the sides. Just when u make ur template.. u could put a tape up to it to see what kind of contour u need etc. Or u could also put the tape right on the template and cut it to fit the tapes etc..

The first time u attach when the hair is long don't expect to get the attachment super perfect.. but when the hair is shorter after the haircut put the unit on ur head where u want ur hairline etc and than take a look at it and just judge where ud like to shave or not etc. Keep in mind lace can stretch a little bit.