Lumber Cut List Optimizer

Turning a Cut List into Buyable Stock

Linear optimization answers a shop question: given the boards you have on the rack or plan to buy, how do you nest parts so you waste less and still leave room for the saw kerf and square ends? This tool uses a first-fit decreasing packing pass on a finite inventory — only the stock you add will be used. Parts that cannot fit are listed as leftover so you know exactly what to order.

How to use this optimizer

1. Set blade kerf and how much you will trim off each rough end to square the stock.
2. Add your available stock: enter a length, quantity, and optional name (e.g. "Rack A" or "Walnut"), then click Add Stock. Quick Add buttons append one board at standard lengths without clearing your list.
3. Add parts with quantity, length, and an optional Part Mark (e.g. "Rail A") that will appear on the cutting diagram.
4. Run the layout. Review the colored cut map — stock names appear above each board, part marks on the bars. The summary shows used boards, unused stock still on the rack, and any parts that could not fit.

Kerf, trim, and inventory tips

Every crosscut removes kerf width from usable length; ignore it and the last part on a board will come up short. End trim is not optional on rough lumber — budget it on both ends if you mill from random stock. If leftover parts appear, add more stock or try longer boards. The algorithm packs length only, not figure matching — always keep grain direction and defects in mind.

FAQ