Linear Cut Optimizer

How to plan length cuts

Use one stock length and a list of finished pieces, all sharing the same material and cross section. A 2×4 and a 1×6 require separate plans even if their lengths match.

The solver sorts pieces from longest to shortest, then places each in the stock with the closest usable remainder. Another stock length opens only when the piece cannot fit existing stock. This best-fit decreasing method is quick but does not guarantee the minimum stock count.

Kerf and remaining material

Each separating cut removes the entered kerf. A piece that uses the remainder exactly needs no cut beyond the existing end. A remainder shorter than kerf is consumed by the blade; otherwise the rest is an offcut.

Trim damaged ends before measuring stock, or subtract those allowances from stock length. Bar labels show finished lengths. The text below each bar gives the cut order.

A simple fit check

Two 600 mm pieces cannot fit a 1200 mm board with a nonzero separating kerf. At 3.2 mm kerf, they need at least 1203.2 mm, using the existing end for the last piece.

Frequently asked questions