How to use the kerf calculator
- Measure stock length and the required finished length of each repeated piece.
- Enter blade kerf: the width of the material removed by the cut.
- Count the cuts you will actually make. A part that ends exactly at the stock edge may need one fewer cut.
The formula
Remaining length = stock length − (piece length × quantity) − (kerf × cuts)
Worked example
Five 400 mm pieces and five cuts at 3.2 mm consume 2016 mm. A 2400 mm board leaves 384 mm.
Before you measure and cut
Kerf is the cutting width of the teeth, not necessarily the thickness of the blade plate. Use a measured test cut or the blade specification.
A negative remainder means the requested pieces and cuts do not fit. It is a shortage, not an extra offcut.
Frequently asked questions
Do I use one kerf per piece?
Usually each piece cut from longer stock needs a separating cut. If the last piece uses an existing end exactly, it may not need an additional cut.
Does this include end trim?
Only if you include those cuts and the trimmed material in your inputs. Use the visual cut optimizer for sheet edge trim.