Several people suggested using a stiff piece of wire to keep deadeyes lined up. You place the ends of the wire in the holes and make sure the bottom deadeyes are firmly seated. It worked for me better than eyeballing it, but it was a bit awkward. Maybe someone else can explain it better with better pictures. I’m just a beginner.I tried the cardboard thing too. Gave it up in a New York minute. I can’t do the template thing that keeps the deadeyes lined up either.