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Cut List Planner

Build a reliable cut list planner for cabinets, shelves, and plywood projects: clear part names, quantities, kerf, and saved layouts that cut rework.

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The problem

A cut list planner solves a common woodworking problem: dimensions are scattered across sketches, notes, screenshots, and mental reminders. Without a clear planner, repeated parts get missed, part names become unclear, and the saw setup depends on interpretation. That creates rework even when the design itself is simple.

Step-by-step solution

1

Name every part clearly

Use practical names like left side, fixed shelf, back panel, stretcher, drawer bottom, and door rail instead of anonymous numbers.

2

Add dimensions and quantity

Record final part size, material thickness, and count. Include trimming allowance only when it is actually needed.

3

Choose board or sheet workflow

Use a board cut list for linear stock and a plywood layout workflow for sheet goods.

4

Account for kerf and direction

Blade kerf and rotation rules can change whether a plan fits, so they must be part of the planner.

5

Export or save before cutting

A good cut list planner should become a shop document that can be checked at the saw.

Tool recommendation: For quick planning, use the cut list calculator. For projects that need saved layouts, repeat editing, and a more product-like workflow, use CutList and keep the tools hub as the internal navigation point.

FAQ

What is a cut list planner?

A cut list planner organizes part names, dimensions, quantities, material, kerf, and layout rules before cutting.

Is a cut list planner better than a spreadsheet?

A spreadsheet can track parts, but a planner or optimizer can also show whether the parts fit the stock material.

When should I use CutList?

Use CutList when the project has many plywood parts, needs saved layouts, or should be exported as a PDF.

What should every cut list include?

Part name, width, length, quantity, material, thickness, kerf assumptions, and notes for rotation or grain direction.