Cut List Optimizer
Enter your cut list and stock board length to see optimized cutting layout, boards needed, and material efficiency.
Cut List Optimizer
Plan cuts to minimize waste and boards purchased
Stock Board
Cut List
Summary
Cut Layout
Formulas Used
First Fit Decreasing
A bin-packing algorithm that sorts pieces by length (largest first) and places each piece on the first board with enough remaining space. This typically achieves 85-95% material efficiency.
Efficiency
How much of your purchased lumber actually ends up in your project.
Optimizing Your Cut List
Why Optimize?
A well-planned cut list can save 15-25% on lumber costs by reducing the number of boards purchased and minimizing waste.
Tips for Efficient Cutting
- Cut longest pieces first from each board
- Group similar lengths to fill boards more efficiently
- Account for saw kerf (⅛" per cut)
- Buy longer stock — 12ft or 16ft boards often yield better efficiency than 8ft
- Label every piece before cutting
- Double-check measurements — measure twice, cut once
Stock Length Strategy
| Project Type | Best Stock Length | |-------------|------------------| | Small box/shelf | 6 ft or 8 ft | | Furniture | 8 ft or 10 ft | | Large projects | 12 ft or 16 ft | | Mixed sizes | Buy 2 different lengths |
Frequently Asked Questions
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