Corjl and Templett are popular platforms for creating and selling digital templates. However, they are both subscription-based services, and some users may prefer a self-hosted solution. This article explores open-source and self-hosted alternatives to Corjl and Templett, providing information about their features, pricing, and community support.
What are Corjl and Templett?
Corjl and Templett are online design platforms that enable users to create and sell templates. Customers can personalize these templates for various purposes, such as invitations, stationery, and other printable products. Both platforms offer a user-friendly interface 1 2 and a wide range of design tools 1 2, making them popular choices for both professional designers and individuals.
Corjl is a platform that allows you to protect and distribute digital templates, with some design creation capabilities. It offers advanced protections and template management capabilities, giving designers greater reach and peace of mind. With Corjl, you can create and sell more digital templates, give access to remote assistants, connect with fulfillment partners, earn more passive income, and integrate with other applications 1. Corjl integrates with popular e-commerce platforms like Etsy, Shopify, and WooCommerce, allowing seamless integration with online shops 1.
Templett is an online design platform for creating and selling templates. It offers a wide range of features, including an easy-to-use design app, the ability to design on any device, and the option to sell on Etsy and other platforms. Templett also provides access to over 800 fonts and over 3 million elements for free 2. Mobile editing on Templett is limited to text and image replacement, with full functionality available on desktop devices 3. Like Corjl, Templett also integrates with e-commerce platforms, making it easy to sell templates online 4.
Open-Source Alternatives to Corjl and Templett
Penpot
Penpot is a web-based, open-source design and prototyping tool that aims to bridge the gap between designers and developers. It is a strong contender as a Corjl or Templett alternative due to its collaborative features, focus on open standards, and developer-friendly approach. Its use of open standards ensures compatibility with other design tools and prevents vendor lock-in 5.
Features:
- Multiplayer: Multiple users can work simultaneously on the same design in real-time6.
- Comments: Get and provide feedback directly on designs and prototypes6.
- Share presentations: Create shareable links for prototypes and design presentations6.
- Code inspector: Get actual code snippets ready to use for CSS styles and SVG markup6.
- Infinite canvas: Design without limits and organize designs with the space needed7.
- Vector manipulation: Edit vectors and perform boolean operations7.
- Components/symbols: Create and reuse components, increasing efficiency and consistency7.
- Libraries: Store and reuse elements and styles, including components, graphics, colors, and typography7.
- Templates: Offers a wide range of community-created templates, including UI kits, icons, and fonts7.
Pricing:
Penpot offers a free plan with all essential features for professionals8. A paid plan with additional features like increased storage and file backups is coming soon8.
Community Support:
Penpot has an active community forum where users can ask questions, share feedback, and contribute to the project9. It also provides comprehensive documentation and tutorials10.
Inkscape
Inkscape is a free and open-source vector graphics editor that can be used as an alternative to Corjl and Templett for creating various designs, including invitations, stationery, and logos. It uses vector graphics to allow for sharp printouts and renderings at unlimited resolution 11.
Features:
- Object creation: Offers a wide range of tools for creating objects, from basic shapes to intricate paths12.
- Object manipulation: Resize, rotate, and skew elements with precision12.
- Object styling: Apply gradients, patterns, and strokes to enhance designs12.
- Path operations: Combine, subtract, and intersect paths to create complex shapes12.
- Text editing: Customize fonts, sizes, and styles12.
Pricing:
Inkscape is completely free to use13.
Community Support:
Inkscape has a large and active community that provides support through forums, mailing lists, and online tutorials14.
Scribus
Scribus is a free and open-source desktop publishing software that can be used to create various print and digital materials, including brochures, posters, and newsletters. While not specifically designed for creating templates like Corjl and Templett, Scribus offers a powerful set of features that can be utilized for similar purposes.
Features:
- Advanced Text Formatting: Character and paragraph styles, manual tracking, and baseline grid for accurate typesetting15.
- Vector and Object Editing Tools: Bezier curves, primitive shapes, and advanced shape generators15.
- Layout Tools: Templates, asset library, layer transparencies, and alignment tools15.
- Color Management: Support for RGB, CMYK, Lab, and Spot Colors, gradients, and color palettes15.
Pricing:
Scribus is free to download and use16.
Community Support:
Scribus has an active community that provides support through forums, mailing lists, and a wiki17.
Canva: A Versatile Alternative
Canva is another popular design platform that offers a free plan and extensive features that may be suitable for some users as an alternative to Corjl and Templett. While not open-source or self-hosted, Canva provides a user-friendly interface and a vast library of templates, design elements, and stock images 18. It also offers features like brand kits, Magic Resize, and background removal 19. Canva can be used to create various designs, including social media graphics, presentations, and marketing materials 20. It also supports real-time collaboration, allowing teams to work together on designs 4. Canva integrates with e-commerce platforms like Etsy and Shopify, making it easy to sell designs online 21.
Features:
- Extensive template library: Canva offers a vast collection of templates for various design needs22.
- Photo editor: Built-in photo editing tools allow for image adjustments and enhancements22.
- Graphics library: Access to millions of illustrations, icons, and charts22.
- Text tools: Advanced text formatting and styling options22.
- Collaboration tools: Real-time collaboration features for teams23.
- Brand kit: Allows users to define and maintain brand consistency23.
Pricing:
Canva offers a free plan with basic features and a limited selection of templates and resources. Canva Pro provides access to a wider range of templates, design elements, and features for a monthly or annual fee24.
Community Support:
Canva has a large and active community forum, a comprehensive knowledge base, and social media channels for support25.
Self-Hosted Alternatives to Corjl and Templett
While there are no direct self-hosted alternatives to Corjl and Templett with the same template-focused features, several self-hosted solutions can be adapted for similar purposes. These include:
Gravit Designer
Gravit Designer is a free vector graphics editor that can be self-hosted. It offers a user-friendly interface and a range of tools for creating various designs, including illustrations, logos, and website mockups. Gravit Designer supports both online and offline use, making it a versatile option for designers.
Photopea
Photopea is a free online image editor that can be used to create and edit templates. It offers a similar interface to Adobe Photoshop and supports various file formats, including PSD, XCF, and Sketch. Photopea can be used for various design tasks, including photo editing, web design, and template creation.
Awesome Self-Hosted
Awesome Self-Hosted is a curated list of self-hosted software, including various design and graphics tools. It provides a comprehensive resource for users looking for self-hosted alternatives to popular software.
Limitations of Self-Hosted Alternatives
It’s important to note that self-hosted alternatives may require technical expertise for setup and maintenance. Users need to have a server or hosting environment to install and run the software. Additionally, self-hosted solutions may not offer the same level of user-friendliness and support as commercial platforms like Corjl and Templett.
Comparison of Corjl, Templett, and Alternatives
The following table provides a comparative overview of Corjl, Templett, and their open-source/self-hosted alternatives:
| Platform | Features | Pricing | Community Support |
| Corjl | Advanced protection, template management, e-commerce integration | Subscription-based | Active community forum, email support |
| Templett | Easy-to-use design app, mobile editing (limited), e-commerce integration | Subscription-based | Active community forum, email support |
| Penpot | Multiplayer, code inspector, infinite canvas, open standards | Free and paid plans | Active community forum, documentation, tutorials |
| Inkscape | Object creation, object manipulation, object styling, unlimited resolution | Free | Large and active community, forums, mailing lists, tutorials |
| Scribus | Advanced text formatting, vector editing, layout tools, color management | Free | Active community, forums, mailing lists, wiki |
| Canva | Extensive template library, photo editor, graphics library, collaboration tools | Free and paid plans | Community forum, knowledge base, social media support |
| Gravit Designer | Vector graphics editor, online and offline use | Free | Community forum, documentation |
| Photopea | Online image editor, similar to Adobe Photoshop | Free | Community forum, documentation |
Conclusion
Choosing the right platform for creating and selling digital templates depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re a designer looking for a free and open-source alternative with a strong focus on collaboration, Penpot is an excellent choice. If you need a more versatile tool for both vector and raster graphics, Inkscape might be a better fit. For users who require advanced layout and typesetting features, Scribus is a powerful option. Canva provides a user-friendly platform with a vast library of templates and design elements, making it suitable for both individuals and businesses. If you prefer self-hosted solutions, Gravit Designer and Photopea offer capable alternatives. Ultimately, exploring the features, pricing, and community support of each platform will help you make an informed decision.
Works cited
1. Corjl – Create, Protect & Distribute Secure Digital Templates, accessed March 4, 2025, https://www.corjl.com/en/web/
2. Templett – Online design platform for creating and selling templates, accessed March 4, 2025, https://templett.com/
3. Templett FAQs: Learn How to Design and Customize Templates for Your Events – The Sundae Creative, accessed March 4, 2025, https://www.thesundaecreative.com.au/pages/templett-faqs
4. Selling digital products online for beginners Best platform for templates? Canva & Templett vs Corjl – YouTube, accessed March 4, 2025, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WygE5MF3RlQ
5. Penpot: The Design Tool for Design & Code Collaboration, accessed March 4, 2025, https://penpot.app/
6. Penpot Features Powerful Online Design Tool, accessed March 4, 2025, https://penpot.app/features
7. The Free Open Source Design Tool For Designers & Developers – Penpot, accessed March 4, 2025, https://penpot.app/design/design-tool
8. Penpot Pricing | Free and Enterprise Plans, accessed March 4, 2025, https://penpot.app/pricing
9. Penpot Community, accessed March 4, 2025, https://community.penpot.app/
10. Help center – Penpot, accessed March 4, 2025, https://help.penpot.app/
11. Inkscape – Wikipedia, accessed March 4, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inkscape
12. What is Inkscape? A Beginner’s Guide to Graphic Brilliance – The Knowledge Academy, accessed March 4, 2025, https://www.theknowledgeacademy.com/blog/what-is-inkscape/
13. www.getapp.com, accessed March 4, 2025, https://www.getapp.com/collaboration-software/a/inkscape-business-graphics-software/pricing/#:~:text=Pricing%20overview,-Starting%20from&text=Inkscape%20is%20free%20and%20open%2Dsource%20software%20licensed%20under%20the%20GPL.
14. r/Inkscape – Reddit, accessed March 4, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/Inkscape/
15. Features – The Scribus Community, accessed March 4, 2025, https://impagina.org/features
16. Legal Questions – Scribus Wiki, accessed March 4, 2025, https://wiki.scribus.net/canvas/Legal_Questions
17. Support – Scribus Wiki, accessed March 4, 2025, https://wiki.scribus.net/canvas/Support
18. Top Corjl Alternatives in 2025 – Slashdot, accessed March 4, 2025, https://slashdot.org/software/p/Corjl/alternatives
19. Best Corjl Alternatives & Competitors – SourceForge, accessed March 4, 2025, https://sourceforge.net/software/product/Corjl/alternatives
20. Top 10 Template.net Alternatives & Competitors in 2025 – G2, accessed March 4, 2025, https://www.g2.com/products/template-net/competitors/alternatives
21. 32 Free Canva Alternatives with Better Templates and Design Feature, accessed March 4, 2025, https://medium.com/writers-blokke/32-free-canva-alternatives-with-better-templates-and-design-feature-323a31d90c03
22. The best Canva features in 2024 – Free, Pro, and AI – ManyPixels, accessed March 4, 2025, https://www.manypixels.co/blog/graphic-design/canva-features
23. Top 5 Features of Canva – Mvix Digital Signage, accessed March 4, 2025, https://mvix.com/blog/top-canva-features/
24. Canva Pricing — Which Plan is Best? – Style Factory, accessed March 4, 2025, https://www.stylefactoryproductions.com/blog/canva-pricing
25. Canva Help Desk Contacts – LiveAgent, accessed March 4, 2025, https://www.liveagent.com/directory/canva-help-desk-contacts/