Well, if you count stacking scraps of proofgrade a “template”, then sure. That’s not a problem, and when I did the Lino blocks (with @Joe) during the PRU days, which prompted me to write this tutorial which is no longer relevant with the set-focus command. I didn’t know any better. As for settings as with most things you can just start with at the built in maple-plywood settings and work from there as needed.
BTW: I found the Lino blocks aren’t great stamps compared to the dedicated laser stamp materials I’ve used which are as good as any custom stamp I’ve ordered through staples. As @cynd11 noted, I totally didn’t think about using clear acrylic on the handle to be able to see through the stamp… (but they’ve been using the stamp at the hospital since 2/18 and it’s worked great)