Making Templates

To create a lavatory that is any shape other than a simple rectangle, we will need more information than just width and depth and bowl location measurements.

We can work from a detailed drawing, but because walls are seldom straight and corners are often not really 90°, an accurate template (pattern) will normally work better than a drawing for assuring that your lavatory can be made quickly, and that it will fit properly when it arrives at your home.  Slightly bowed walls or angle measurements that are off by even 1° can translate to an improper fit that can be costly and time consuming to correct.
     

Creating a Template
The best materials for making a template are corrugated cardboard or thin plywood.  Paper does not work well because it can stretch and wrinkle, causing inaccuracies.  If you must use paper, Tyvec (often used to wrap houses) works best.  The template should reflect the shape of the actual installed cabinets - we will add the proper overhang (1" on the front and 1/2" on each open end, or 1 1/2" on the front for cabinets with full overlay doors).