Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cut list optimizer?
A cut list optimizer is a tool that figures out how to arrange your woodworking cuts across standard-length boards to minimize waste. Instead of manually planning which pieces go on which board, the optimizer uses an algorithm to pack pieces efficiently — saving you money on lumber and time at the saw.
How do I use this tool?
- Choose your board type (2×4, 2×6, etc.) and board length. The board type labels your material group — optimization is by length only.
- Set the kerf width for your saw blade (default is 1/8").
- Optionally enter the price per board to estimate total cost.
- Enter each piece you need: quantity, length, and an optional label.
- Working with multiple lumber sizes? Click + Add Material Group to create separate groups for each board type.
- Click Calculate to see optimized cut diagrams for each material group.
- Click the Print button for a workshop-ready shopping list and cut order.
How does kerf affect my cuts?
Kerf is the width of material removed by the saw blade during each cut — typically 1/8" (3 mm) for a standard table saw blade. If you're cutting multiple pieces from one board, each cut between pieces consumes that much material. Ignoring kerf can leave your last piece too short. This tool accounts for kerf automatically so your measurements are accurate.
How can I minimize lumber waste?
This tool uses a First Fit Decreasing (FFD) algorithm, which sorts your pieces from longest to shortest and packs them efficiently. You can also reduce waste by adjusting your design dimensions slightly to fit standard board lengths, combining pieces from different parts of your project on the same board, and choosing the board length that best matches your longest pieces.
Does this tool work for plywood and sheet materials?
Yes! Use the Sheets / Plywood tab to optimize 2D rectangular cuts on plywood, MDF, or other sheet materials. Select a standard sheet size (like 4'×8' or 1220×2440 mm) or enter custom dimensions, then add your pieces with width and length. The optimizer uses a shelf-based packing algorithm to arrange pieces efficiently and shows a visual 2D layout of each sheet. Supports both inches and millimeters — use the unit toggle to switch.
Can pieces rotate in the sheets / plywood optimizer?
Yes, the sheets / plywood optimizer automatically tries both orientations (original and rotated 90°) for each piece to find the most efficient arrangement. You don't need to enter pieces in any particular orientation — the algorithm handles rotation for you.
What's the difference between the Lumber and Sheets / Plywood tabs?
The Lumber tab optimizes 1D cuts — fitting pieces by length onto linear boards (like 2×4s or 1×6s). The Sheets / Plywood tab optimizes 2D cuts — fitting rectangular pieces onto flat sheets (like 4'×8' plywood). Use Lumber for dimensional lumber and Sheets / Plywood for plywood, MDF, melamine, or any flat panel material.
What are material groups?
Material groups let you organize your cut list by material type. In the Lumber tab, keep your 2×4 cuts separate from your 2×6 cuts — each group has its own board length, kerf, and price settings. The Sheet Goods tab works the same way: create separate groups for different plywood thicknesses (like 3/4" and 1/4"). Click “+ Add Material Group” to add more. Results are displayed per group so you can see exactly how many boards or sheets of each type you need.
Can I import a cut list from a CSV or Build It?
Yes! You can import a CSV file from SketchUp, Fusion 360, or any spreadsheet — just use columns for Type (lumber/sheet), Quantity, Length, Width, Size, Material, and Label. You can also import a JSON file from Build It (our shed & structure planner). Click the Import button, choose your file, and the optimizer automatically groups pieces by material, routes lumber and sheet goods to the correct tabs, and fills in all cuts and labels. Download the sample CSV template from the import dialog to get started.
Is this a free plywood cut calculator?
Yes — completely free, no sign-up required. Enter your plywood sheet size and the pieces you need, and the optimizer calculates the most efficient layout to minimize waste. You get a visual diagram of each sheet showing exactly where to cut, plus a printable shopping list. Works for plywood, MDF, melamine, and any flat panel material.
How does the plywood layout calculator work?
The plywood layout calculator uses a shelf-based bin-packing algorithm. It sorts your pieces by size, then places them on each sheet row by row — trying both orientations (original and rotated 90°) to find the tightest fit. The result is a visual layout showing exactly where each piece goes on every sheet, how much waste is left, and how many sheets to buy.
Can I use this as a wood cut optimizer for custom board sizes?
Absolutely. You can enter any custom board length for lumber or any custom sheet dimensions for plywood — you’re not limited to the presets. This makes it work for non-standard stock, offcuts you already have, or metric lumber sizes. Just select “Custom” from the size dropdown and type in your dimensions.
Can I use leftover wood or offcuts?
Yes! Open the Have leftover boards? section (lumber) or Have leftover sheets? section (sheets) in any material group. Enter the quantity, length (or width × height for sheets), and an optional label for each remnant you have on hand. The optimizer will try to use your remnants first before allocating new stock — saving you money. Unused remnants are automatically excluded from results.
Can I save or share my cut list?
Yes! Click My Projects to save your current cut list with a name — it’s stored in your browser so you can load it anytime. To share with someone else, click Share Link to copy a short URL to your clipboard. Anyone who opens that link will see your exact cut list, settings, and material groups — ready to calculate. Shared links expire after 90 days.