There are several types of plexiglass. I cut a lot of templates for myself with my scroll saw. I have used my band saw as well. The scroll saw does a little bit finer job. There are blades that have more teeth that are used for cutting plexiglass. I have had the plexi that melts also. My brother gives me his scraps of plexiglass - that works for me. The acrylic that I have purchased at Lowe's is not quite as thick but does an ok job. I think that the plexi runs around $100 for a 4' x 8' sheet at the glass store (tons of templates.) Like another member said, you can sand the plexi with fine grit sandpaper and it does a nice job.
HTH
Min