Optimize boards, pipes, or studs with kerf-aware nesting and sorting fast today. See per-stock layouts, totals, efficiency, and download CSV or PDF in seconds.
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| Label | Length | Quantity | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stud | 2400 | 6 | Wall studs for partitions |
| Header | 1200 | 2 | Door or window opening |
| Blocking | 600 | 8 | Fire blocking or backing |
Numbers match the default entries so you can test immediately.
This calculator treats each stock piece as a usable length after trimming:
Pieces are assigned using a practical nesting heuristic (first-fit decreasing): longest parts are placed first to reduce the number of stocks and waste.
A cut list is a production plan that converts takeoffs into repeatable cuts. It summarizes required parts, groups them into purchasable stock lengths, and shows a clear cutting sequence. For framing, trim, pipe, and light steel work, a consistent cut list reduces rework, prevents over-ordering, and helps crews keep pace.
Three inputs drive almost every layout: stock length, part lengths, and quantities. Choosing the correct unit keeps everything consistent. Common construction stocks include 2.4 m and 3.6 m lengths, but the best choice depends on your part mix. When many parts cluster around half-length, longer stock can reduce board count.
Kerf is the material lost per cut, often around 2–4 mm for saw blades and higher for abrasive methods. End trim is the allowance taken from each end to square stock, remove defects, or match finish requirements. Ignoring kerf and trim can turn a “perfect fit” layout into a shortage on the last cut.
The calculator applies a practical nesting approach called first-fit decreasing: it sorts parts from longest to shortest and places each part into the first stock that can accept it with kerf. This method is fast, easy to verify on site, and usually close to optimal for real-world cut lists.
Utilization is computed from the usable stock length after trimming. Waste is the leftover usable length on each stock. Reviewing waste per board helps you spot outliers caused by a single odd-length part. When waste clusters around a consistent value, consider revising your stock length selection.
Many shops keep offcuts above a threshold for blocking, backing, shims, or short runs. Setting a keepable threshold highlights which leftovers are worth labeling and storing. This improves material recovery and reduces disposal. Treat reusable offcuts as inventory by recording the size and location for future jobs.
A strong workflow starts with clean inputs: confirm actual stock lengths, confirm tool kerf, and include trim allowances for quality. After generating results, print or export a report so the cutter and assembler work from the same plan. Use the per-stock sequence to minimize measuring mistakes during busy production.
Heuristics cannot guarantee the absolute best layout for every dataset, but they provide dependable plans quickly. For critical fabrication, verify the longest pieces first and test-fit one stock before full production. If an item is unplaced, it usually exceeds the usable stock length; adjust stock, trim, or design.
Kerf is the width of material removed by the cutting method. The calculator adds kerf between pieces on the same stock, so your plan reflects real losses and avoids coming up short on the final cut.
If you square ends, remove defects, or need clean finish edges, include an end trim allowance. If you truly cut from untouched ends, set it to zero to maximize usable length.
No. Pick one unit and use it everywhere for stock length, kerf, trim, and part lengths. Mixed units create incorrect nesting and inaccurate waste totals.
An item is unplaced when its length exceeds the usable stock length after subtracting end trim. Increase stock length, reduce trim, change the design length, or split the part if allowed.
Try the lengths you can actually purchase and compare utilization and waste. Longer stock is not always better; the best option matches your most common part lengths and minimizes leftover segments.
It flags leftover waste on a board that is large enough to save for future use. Set it to a practical minimum length your team regularly reuses; set it to zero to disable.
Yes. The calculator intentionally places longer pieces first to reduce the number of boards and waste. Within a board, the listed order is a recommended sequence you can follow for clarity and consistency.
Measure twice, cut once, and track waste accurately always.
Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.