- Worked example: two 40-inch parts from 96-inch stock.
- After 0.5 inch total trim and 0.25 inch total kerf, 15.25 inches remain.
- Bars emphasize the parts; narrow cut losses are enlarged for visibility. Reuse depends on clear length and condition.
Test lengths, not just totals
The available stock length is an input, not a result inferred from the market. Start with lengths confirmed by your supplier, then compare cutting plans for those lengths. A longer board can reduce offcuts in one list and create more unusable remainder in another. It can also change handling, transport and installation constraints.
Compare complete records
The current tool uses one stock length per run. Export a result, change the stock length and export the second result. Compare board count, total purchased length, cut loss, trim and usable offcuts. It does not mix several stock lengths in one optimized search, and the longest-first heuristic does not guarantee the least possible purchase.
- Keep the parts list unchanged when testing a stock alternative.
- Use the same kerf and trimming convention.
- Check availability and purchasing minimums separately.
Do not confuse efficiency with suitability
Grain matching, clear lengths, defects and specified joint locations can invalidate an efficient-looking layout. The shortest purchasing list is not necessarily the best execution plan. Record the reason for selecting a less efficient pattern when it makes the project easier to build or inspect.
Worked planning example
For ten identical parts, one stock size may fit two parts per board and a slightly longer stock may still fit only two. The additional length then becomes remainder rather than another useful part. Test the exact part-plus-kerf combination before comparing price per foot.
Common questions
Can I enter random-length stock?
Not in one run of this planner. Group available lengths and make separate plans, then manually coordinate remaining parts.
Does the tool know which lengths are in stock?
No. It accepts your input and makes no inventory or availability claim.
Evidence & limits
- Calculation method: dimensional arithmetic and conservative first-fit packing
- NIST PS 20-25 — measurement, tally and softwood size basis
Reviewed September 13, 2026. Sources support their stated technical principles; this site's workflows and hypothetical examples are not product tests, supplier approvals or independently reviewed project records.