cutting deck pad to shape - how?

[55NSup]

I need to cut my deckpad to shape.  I have a big piece.

How do you do it. Do I have to make a template? 

Tips welcome.

[supuk]

i always do it from the outline template then just work out how wide i want it and cut to suit and that way you get a pretty good match on the rail. Make sure you use a new blade and it will make cutting a lot easier and then just round edges and corners with some 60 grit paper.

[stoneaxe]

If you want the best possible traction cut it into smaller pieces and tile it. I buy the hydroturf sheets with the diamond texture and then just use the diamonds as my guide for cutting. Mark a centerline and some perpendicular lines with pencil and start laying pieces from the center. I have a 1/4" gap between tiles. By far the best grip of any pad I've used. Also helps keep the blood flowing better in your feet on those real long paddles. I'm doing a makeover of my 14' DW/distance board and the new pad will definitely be a mosaic.

[AirJunky]

Using products like Hydroturf & Gator Grip, I've done it both ways..... tile it, making an interesting design of the shapes. Or one big piece. But I'd always done it by making a template out of butcher paper first. Then I just use a good pair of scissors to cut the final shapes.

[downwinddave]

if you template with paper or cardboard, it's good to just shape one side, then just flip it to get the other side. this ensures your pad is not asymmetrical.

[MarkLB]

I came accross a very interesting website with more info on this product: http://www.nauticexpo.com/boat-manufacturer/stand-up-paddle-board-19796.html