A method of preparing a silicoaluminophosphate molecular sieve which comprises the steps of combining a source of silica, a source of phosphorous, a source of alumina and water to form a primary mixture; adding a structure directing agent to said mixture and optional seeds to form a synthesis mixture. The synthesis mixture is synthesized by heating the mixture to a crystallization temperature to form the sieve. The molar ratio of the structure directing agent relative to the source of alumina may vary between 1.3 and 1.9 and the ratio of water to the source of alumina may vary between 20 to 34.