A template is useful for making multiple parts that need to fit together or to use one design as the basis for another, e.g., to make a series of objects. The image at left shows a vase with stopper. The vase was created first, then used as a template to make a stopper that would fit into the top. This tutorial will demonstrate how to load and display a template.

Step 1- Loading the Template

Make and save your first object. When you save the object, Shape Magic also saves the design in a file with the same filename with the extension .smg. The .smg file is a text file that contains the design data for the object.

Click on the Open File button at the top of the page. Enter the name you used to save the object in the box at the bottom of the page (A), then click on the Open as Template button (B).

Step 2 - Displaying the Side View Template

Click on the Side View button. On the lower right of the screen are three check boxes. If not already checked, click on the Show Template box (A). This will display the original shape as a yellow-orange outline beneath the black outline. This is the template. If you can't see the template, it may be because the same object is also loaded and the two outlines overlap.

Once you see the template, drag the dots as you normally would to make the matching second part (B). You can adjust the grid up or down on the screen by clicking on the green Set Template button just below and to the right of the check boxes.