How do I make template files for jobs I run over and over - and copy work between files?

Job templates (the repeat-work multiplier)

A template is a file saved with everything that never changes: job size for your standard blank, layers, border and margin vectors, registration marks, standing text styles, and calculated toolpaths with your proven settings. Workflow:

1. Build the master file once and save it clearly named (TEMPLATE-12x24-sign.crv). Or use the dedicated Job Template feature (File > Save As Template, and File > New from template)
2. Each new job: open the template, Increment and Save immediately under the new job's name (protects the template), swap in the new artwork and recalculate toolpaths
3. Toolpath settings alone can also be saved as Toolpath Templates (save and load in the Toolpaths panel). Apply your proven V-carve setup to any file's vectors in two clicks

Copying between files

Open both files in the same session (same version), select vectors, then copy in one and paste in the other. This works directly. Notes:

• Vectors and (in Aspire) components copy. Toolpaths do not paste across files, so move those as Toolpath Templates instead
• Paste lands at the same coordinates, so have the Job Setup sizes match or reposition after pasting
• From older files: open the old file and copy out what you need. Remember that opening and saving an old file in a new version upgrades it permanently, so copy out and do not overwrite (see the version entry)

Pro tips

• Template, tool database and toolpath templates together are a production sign shop's entire setup. A new employee (or a new computer) is running in minutes
• Registration and screw-hole vectors living permanently in the template layer is how repeat fixturing stays repeatable (see the workholding and small-parts entries)
• Official documentation: Job Templates
• Mark Lindsay: Absolute Beginner series, Parts 48 to 49
• Learn Your CNC: Q&A Meetup, July 21 2026