I think you are confusing the terms 'template' and 'texture' in your post.
Which, I guess proves your point.
Textures are a good first step towards an original character, but you also really need a morph or two (not necessarily new, perhaps using someone elses) to make a distinct character. Think about this way- if you go and get a tan and put on bright pink lipstick, it's still you would be laughing and pointing at.
Now, there is a completely "graphics" alternative to morphs, which is using displacement mapping (it's a more complex form of bump mapping). But, in my opinion, it's the hardest thing I've tried with 3D
So, who and/or what do you want to make your own textures for, ST?