Bow tie or butterfly inlay templates are essential tools for precise, decorative woodwork. This guide highlights five top templates that help you create clean, accurate bow tie inlays with minimal effort. Each option supports various sizes, durable materials, and alignment features to suit hobbyists and professionals alike. Read on to compare kits, then use the buying guide to choose the best fit for your workshop needs.
| Product | Material & Size | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Monliful 13 in 1 Router Template | 1/4″ thick clear acrylic; 10″ x 7.9″ | All-in-one set with 13 sizes for versatility |
| Rockler Bow Tie Inlay Kit | 6mm acrylic; includes frame, bit, bushing | Foolproof inlay with included hardware |
| Hecfu 8 in 1 Router Template | 1/4″ thick clear acrylic; multiple sizes | High durability and precise markings |
| Nuanchu 9 in 3 Inlay Templates | Transparent acrylic; 9 sizes total | Flexible design combinations for varied projects |
| 3DEXL Router Jig Template | Includes 3 insert templates and 1 hole jig | Compact kit for clean, consistent results |
Monliful 13 in 1 Router Template for Woodworking
The Monliful set provides a large 10 by 7.9 inch work surface with a 1/4 inch thicker router jig for enhanced durability and tolerance. It features an all-in-one design that reduces clutter and expands working space, enabling easier alignment and cuts. This kit includes 13 butterfly inlay sizes in one package, making it versatile for many project styles. The template is crafted from hardened clear acrylic to withstand repeated router use and works well with standard inlay kits or similar systems.
Rockler Bow Tie Inlay Kit with Frame
This kit bundles a durable 6mm acrylic bow tie template with an acrylic frame, a router bit, and a bushing to provide a complete inlay solution. It’s designed for foolproof cuts using a plunge router to shape bow tie inlays and matching mortises. The cross-marked, screen-printed templates ensure quick alignment and consistent results, while the flat, stable surface supports precise routing and clean finishes in decorative inlays.
Hecfu 8 in 1 Router Template
The Hecfu kit offers eight sizes in a 1/4-inch thick clear acrylic, designed for durability and long-lasting use. Each size is clearly marked, allowing for precise routing and straightforward alignment. This template set emphasizes accuracy with visible scale markings and a transparent profile to ensure the router path is easy to monitor, improving cut quality and reducing miscuts in journey joints and decorative inlays.
3DEXL Router Jig Template For Bowtie Inlay
The 3DEXL kit provides three insert templates plus one hole jig, tailored for clean, repeatable bowtie inlay work. Precision-made components help ensure consistent results across multiple projects, reducing trial-and-error during setup. The kit’s compact design makes it a practical addition for studios or workshops focusing on consistent decorative inlays and wood crafting accuracy.
Nuanchu 9 in 3 Butterfly Router Templates
Nuanchu combines three templates to offer nine distinct inlay sizes, enabling diverse design options. Clear markings and a transparent acrylic build support precise alignment and visibility during routing. The 0.25-inch thickness provides added rigidity, helping maintain consistent dimensions and reducing distortion over time for reliable, long-lasting use in varied woodworking projects.
Rockler Nested Bow Tie Router Inlay Template Set
This four-piece nested set provides 1″ to 4″ increments, giving designers the ability to build nested bow ties or combine smaller templates within larger ones. Made from sturdy 6mm acrylic, the templates feature screen-printed cross marks for quick alignment and precise placement. The nested design is ideal for complex inlays and varied wood tones, offering flexible design possibilities for high-end projects.
POWERTEC 71869 Inlay Kit with Butterfly Template
This 7-in-1 inlay kit centers on a solid carbide 1/8″ spiral router bit paired with a brass inlay bushing and alignment accessories. It’s designed for precise, repeatable inlays with a dependable center alignment pin. The combination supports reliable, decorative cuts, making it a strong option for repairs and embellishments across various woodworking projects.
Buying Guide
Material quality: Look for clear acrylic of consistent thickness (commonly 1/4″ or 1/2″) for durability and stable routing. Thicker templates reduce flex and improve cut accuracy on larger inlays.
Size range: Choose sets offering multiple sizes or nesting capabilities to cover a variety of project scales—from small decorative motifs to large panels.
Included hardware: Kits with frames, bits, bushings, or alignment pins simplify setup and ensure consistent results without hunting for missing components.
Markings and alignment: Visible, laser-etched or screen-printed scale markings, plus centerlines and reticles, help achieve precise locations and symmetrical bow ties.
Ease of use: Consider plunge-routing compatibility, secure fixing methods (tape, screws, clamps), and the ability to work with standard inlay kits for seamless integration.
Durability and care: Reputable brands use hard acrylic with stable tolerances. Proper storage and cleaning extend template life and maintain accuracy over time.