I started quilting using templates and I really steer clear of them these days. I saw a cute pattern the other day but it was made using them so I passed. I find them a real pain!

I use the cardboard that comes in the boxes of cat food. I also use that cardboard to wrap the binding so it is ready when my quilt is ready to bind. So neat and easy.💕

Oh good point, Luvstoquilt, I typically make my tops, combine them with their backs and their bindings and then they sit for a couple of years before I actually manage to get them quilted. I use pieces of cardboard I've cut to 18" long by about a foot wide with no creases in the middle and wrap my binding around them. One wrap = 1 yard. Let's me have a quick measurement and fits in the tub of unquilted tops.

I get a lot of junk mail on good stiff card board or stiff paper. I use it also for templates when I need to.good for applique piecing reverse piecing .

I use plastic templates also.

I don't like using templates and avoid patterns that call for them.

I always save cardboard pieces from cereal boxes and sometimes when I order something my item is stabilized with cardboard. This method you mentioned was the way my Grandmother always made her template patterns. But sometimes I just get lazy and order the plastic templates. However, my friend had her hubby cut out mask patterns from plexiglass and this works well but only if you have the tools to do that with.