i use no templates, my fave ruler is the 3 x 18... i have a 6 x 24 and do use it, but the smaller one is much better to handle so i used it when i can. but for squaring up, i use the exact size so i have 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, and 6.5... i buy these specific types whenever i find them on sale...i carry a list so i know what i already have. i don't use specialty rulers much...the strip ruler by June Tailor should have earned her some type of award...i use it ALL the time, you can cut any strip in half inch increments AND if you fold the fabric in quarters diagonally, then put it under the strip slits... you have super fast bias strips...love this ruler...