Cut List Optimizer

How to use the cut list optimizer

1. Choose a stock sheet or enter its actual length and width.
2. Add each part’s finished dimensions and quantity. Separate materials and thicknesses into different runs.
3. Enter saw kerf and edge trim. Turn rotation off when each part’s length must follow the sheet length.
4. Optimize, check every sheet, and print the plan or download the selected sheet as an SVG.

What the optimizer does

Five part orderings and three rectangle-splitting strategies produce fifteen candidate plans. Each places pieces in usable rectangles while reserving blade-width gaps. Plans are compared by unplaced part count, sheet count, and then largest reusable offcut.

Every subdivision uses a straight cut across the current rectangle. Labels show finished dimensions, excluding blade width. This is a bounded heuristic: an exact global minimum is not guaranteed.

The unused percentage includes edge trim and blade loss as well as reusable offcuts. This calculation happens in your browser, without a remote calculation service.

The supplied example

The starting stock is 2440 × 1220 mm. The parts are four 600 × 400 mm panels, eight 500 × 300 mm panels, and three 900 × 250 mm panels, with 3.2 mm kerf. Finished area totals 2.835 m². Area is only a lower bound: shapes, orientation, and kerf determine fit.

For solid-lumber volume, use the board foot calculator. For strips and trim, use the linear cut optimizer.

Frequently asked questions