About the Custom Lens Template

Are you a Giant Squid? Cool! You now have access to a nifty feature called the Custom Lens Templates. (That's right, multiple templates, not just one anymore). This allows you to create your own personal lens templates that can be used when you publish new lenses. Here are some details on how it works.

What is the Custom Lens Template?
Think of the lens template like a skeleton for future lenses, a bundle that you can personalize and use over and over again. It is a template that YOU create by inserting and rearranging the modules and settings of your choice. Each time you create a lens, you have the opportunity to start from scratch, use one of the templates we've created, or use one of your own personal templates. Imagine having a template for your ebay lenses, another for your gadget lenses, another for your How-to-Squidoo lenses, and so on. Cool, neh?

NEW! How many can I have?
Unlimited power!!!!! (But remember what happened to Emperor Palpatine when he abused it).

Who can create a Lens Template?
This is a special perk, available only to Giants! So if you're a prolific lensmaster interested in becoming a Giant, work on developing 50 or more GREAT lenses. More info here. The next time we do a sweep for applications, we'll send you a note.

How to I develop/edit my templates?
As long as you're a Giant, just log in to your account and go to your dashboard. In the left column under Don't Miss This Tool is a link to manage your lens templates. You can change your templates' module orders and settings from there, and set up new templates.

If I edit my template after I've used it, will it make changes to the lenses I used it for?
Good question, but nopes! Only future lenses created using the template will be affected. Sounds like it's time to get building :).

Why do only Giant Squids get this?
Well, our Giants are the VIPs of the Squidoo community. They make the most, best lenses. Quality and quantity: that's no small shakes. So, we wanted to help make it even easier for you to make the best lenses you know how. Giving you the ability to create multiple, custom lens templates lets you get started even faster. It's a simple but powerful tool that in the wrong hands could (gasp) lead to a high output of junky, or even spammy lenses. But we trust our Giant Squids not to use their superpowers for evil. So have fun!