Free specialty workspace

Cutting layout optimizer

Use this cutting layout optimizer to plan linear stock cuts and rectangular sheet layouts with blade width, edge trim and rotation options.

Method version1.0.0 · Reviewed November1,2026 · Calculated on your device

Your calculation

Choose a method, then enter your figures. Examples are illustrative, not recommended settings or rates.

What would you like to calculate?

Choose the method matching your inputs.

Common unit for every dimension

Every stock, part, trim and kerf value must use this same unit.

Stock length (linear) or sheet width

Usable stock before subtracting the entered edge or end trim.

Sheet height

Full sheet height in the same common unit.

Blade cut width

Enter actual kerf in the common unit; zero means intentionally none.

Trim reserved on EACH end or edge

The value is subtracted from both ends and, for sheets, all four edges.

May parts rotate90°?

Keep No for grain, printed direction or directional finish.

Parts — width,height,quantity (sheet) OR length,quantity (linear)

One part size per line. Use two numbers per line in linear mode, three in sheet mode. Limit200 total pieces.

How this calculation works

Finished utilization = total finished part length or area ÷ purchased stock length or area. Descending greedy placement constructs feasible layouts.

What information do I need?

Only fields for your selected method are required. Use consistent units and scope. Changing an entry method or unit system does not convert the numbers already entered. Previously calculated results are cleared when inputs change.

Input definitions and where to find them

What would you like to calculate?: Choose the method matching your inputs.
Common unit for every dimension: Every stock, part, trim and kerf value must use this same unit.
Stock length (linear) or sheet width: Usable stock before subtracting the entered edge or end trim.
Sheet height: Full sheet height in the same common unit.
Blade cut width: Enter actual kerf in the common unit; zero means intentionally none.
Trim reserved on EACH end or edge: The value is subtracted from both ends and, for sheets, all four edges.
May parts rotate90°?: Keep No for grain, printed direction or directional finish.
Parts — width,height,quantity (sheet) OR length,quantity (linear): One part size per line. Use two numbers per line in linear mode, three in sheet mode. Limit200 total pieces.

Worked example

This example uses the initial method shown in the selector. Load an example in the form to try it.

Example inputs

What would you like to calculate?: sheet
Common unit for every dimension: in
Stock length (linear) or sheet width: 48
Sheet height: 96
Blade cut width: 0.125
Trim reserved on EACH end or edge: 0
May parts rotate90°?: no
Parts — width,height,quantity (sheet) OR length,quantity (linear): 24,24,4 12,24,4

Example answer: Sheets required = 2 sheets

Use the result well

Rectangular guillotine-placement heuristic, not a guaranteed optimal nesting solution. Rotation is optional; disable it for grain or directional finishes. Trim and kerf are reserved. No defects, edge banding, irregular shapes, saw sequence or machine instructions are modeled. Check the drawn plan and dimensions before cutting.

Review the limits shown with each result. Browser arithmetic has finite precision; small differences may reflect rounding. Print or download important results before closing the tab. This workspace does not store projects online or replace an approved examination calculator, engineering design or professional judgment.

Method and sources

Packing background; this tool uses original first-fit and guillotine heuristics

References support the stated mathematical concepts; the interface and implementation are original. Publishers do not endorse this site.