yes, you can use templates from the front....go to Gadget Girls website...they sell specific templates for longarm....there are also other sources....just make sure they are for longarm machines....others may be too thin could hit your needle and mess up your timing..not a good thing!!!!!! CL does work from the back because you have to lay things on the table and follow w/stylus....at least that is how it used to be....I don't have it...way too expensive.......
take your time.....don't buy too many gadgets you will find you will not use many after awhile.......a good straight edge ruler--cut from plexiglass about 6" long is good for diagonal lines....even vert/horizontal at first.........again make sure the plexi is thick so it rides along side your hopping foot.. Call the mfgr for additional information........best source for your setup