Workpiece datum edges
Choose two straight, repeatable reference edges and confirm how the printed template will be aligned to each one.
Editable drill-template starter
Lay out a four-hole drill template from two measured datum edges
This 120 × 36 mm starter places four 4.8 mm finished guides from a left end and near long-edge datum. It keeps the first offset, 30 mm centre spacing, row position, countersunk entries and recessed label visible, with diameter trials before the full template.
A transparent way to transfer one measured row—not a hardened drill bushing, automatic locating fence, clamp or guarantee of positional accuracy.
What to measure first
The starter dimensions are there to make the controls understandable. Replace them with evidence from the real part, space and print setup.
First hole and row offsets
Measure each centre from the nominated datums: 15 mm from the left end and 18 mm from the near edge in this starter.
Guide spacing and count
Confirm four centres at 30 mm spacing fit the real workpiece and leave enough edge and web material in the template.
Tool or guide-bushing diameter
Measure the actual cylindrical surface that enters the printed guide and decide the required movement or location behaviour.
Independent clamping access
Plan how both template and workpiece will be restrained without relying on the printed guide to contain a rotating tool.
Published starter settings
These values produce the preview shown above. They remain editable after the template opens in the EazyMake studio.
Template120 × 36 × 8 mmLength × width × printed guide thickness.
Guide row4 × Ø4.8 mmFinished guide diameter, not a nominal drill recommendation.
First guide15 mm from left datumMeasured to the centre of guide 1.
Spacing30 mm centresPlaces the fourth guide 105 mm from the left datum.
Row position18 mm from near datumCentres the row across the 36 mm template width.
EntryØ9 mm, 90° countersinkAn entry shape, not a hardened bushing.
IdentificationRecessed DATUM APortable-stroke label on the upward face.
From measurement to printable part
The generator keeps the important decisions visible and carries one parameter set through geometry, inspection, calibration and export.
Choose and mark the datums
Name the left end and near long edge on both the drawing and real workpiece so the row cannot be mirrored or referenced inconsistently.
Enter the hole-row geometry
Set guide count, first-centre offset, centre spacing and row offset, then review the numbered placement diagram.
Resolve the guide entry
Choose a plain or countersunk entry while preserving the minimum straight guide land, edge distance, web and backing.
Print and test diameter coupons
Compare three size-coded samples using the actual tool or guide bushing on the intended printer setup.
Verify transferred position
Print the template flat, align and clamp it independently, then prove the transferred centres on scrap before using a final workpiece.
Print notes
- Print the guide-diameter coupons and the template flat with entries and the DATUM A label facing upward.
- Use the same orientation, material, nozzle, layer height and profile for the coupons and complete template.
- Align the nominated edges to the real workpiece datums and clamp the template and workpiece independently.
- Keep hot or rotating tools away from unsupported plastic and use appropriate drilling protection and technique.
Know the limits
- Printed plastic is not a hardened drill guide and has no workholding, wear, heat or tool-containment rating.
- A passing diameter coupon does not prove hole-centre accuracy, perpendicularity, clamp stability or the transferred result.
- The visible datum edges are references only; the template does not generate an automatic fence or alignment feature.
Common questions
Answers specific to this starter and the measurements it exposes.
Where are the four guide centres?
They are 15, 45, 75 and 105 mm from the left datum, with every centre 18 mm from the near long edge.
Is the 4.8 mm guide intended for a particular drill?
It is a finished starting diameter, not a nominal tool specification. Measure the actual drill shank or guide bushing, choose the required behaviour and print the diameter trials.
Does the countersink keep the drill perpendicular?
No. It provides a shaped entry while the remaining straight guide land carries the printed bore. Perpendicularity, wear and safe control still require physical verification and suitable technique.
How should I verify the template before drilling the real part?
Check the printed guide diameter, align both named datums, clamp independently and transfer the row onto scrap. Measure the resulting centres and repeatability before using a final workpiece.
Keep exploring
Use the guide when you need the reasoning, or open another template to see the same measurement-first workflow in a different part family.
Make this starter your own
Open the real generator, replace the example dimensions and keep the calibration result tied to your printer and material.