How to use a vibe code template
A vibe code template is a head start: an app that already works, which you reshape into yours by talking to an AI. You do not need to understand the code to do it.
1. Pick a template that is close
Look for the one that already does most of what you need; changing colours and wording is quick, adding a whole new feature takes longer. On each template check three things: the development score (1–10), the "Straight talk" report of what works and what does not, and the services it needs and whether they cost money.
2. Get the files
After you buy or download it, you get a zip. Unzip it into a folder. Inside you will find the parts you chose — screens, engine, instructions, pictures — plus a .env.example file listing every setting the app needs.
3. Open it with your AI
Open the folder in a coding assistant, or import it into a builder. Then tell the AI: "Read docs/HANDOFF.md and the setup steps, and get this running for me. Ask me for anything you need." The handoff document explains how the app is built, so the AI is not guessing.
4. Fill in the settings
Copy .env.example to .env and fill in each value — the AI can tell you where each one comes from (for example, creating a free database account). These are your keys; never share that file.
5. Make it yours
Now describe the changes: your name and logo, your colours, your prices, the fields your customers need. Change one thing at a time and try it after each change. The handoff's "how to make it yours" section lists the first things most people change and where they live.
6. Put it online
Ask the AI to deploy it and walk you through connecting a domain. The setup steps say where the maker deployed it, which is the easiest path.
Prefer to start free? Try free vibe code templates or open source projects. And once you have made something good, you can sell your own version.