One method of dividing the ball uses angle templates to determine the polar divisions, rather than dividing the paper tape in increments. More useful (in my opinion) is using templates to check the placement of the marking threads for accurate and equal divisions after dividing the ball using the traditional paper strip, before doing the final tacking of the marking threads - especially for odd numbers of divisions since is more difficult to accurately divide the strip into thirds, fifths, etc.. This template master includes templates with two or three angles on each. Collectively they will cover 3 through 12 divisiions as well as 14, 15, 16, 18 and 20 divisions.

        To create your own set of templates, print this page. Trim the top text off but do not cut apart the templates. Glue to a piece of stiff cardboard or the equivalent. When dry, separate and trim them to size using an Xacto knife or something similar, or a rolling knife (craft or quilting rotary cutter). Use a straight edge with the knife to insure straight edges and sharp points on the templates. To stiffen, coat them with a paper sealer, or cover them with clear package tape to provide some extra sturdiness - be careful to maintain the accuracy and sharpness of the angle points. Another method is to seal them in self-stick laminating plastic, available at office supply stores, or to have them heat laminated. Mary H. of NJ also suggests going to the fabric store and getting the quilting template material.... they are thin sheets of frosted plastic made for duplicating quilting pattern templates, and designed to be used over and over. They should be available at any shop that sells fabric and quilting supplies. This sounds like the best idea to me yet....
        Templates were originally created by G. Thompson, and revised by G. Ladwig. All copyrights apply and all rights reserved. You may download one copy for personal use.