The free cut list calculator
that saves you material
Plan plywood, MDF, and sheet material cuts in minutes. CraftCut's optimizer reduces waste by up to 30% and generates printable cut diagrams — right in your browser.
What is a cut list calculator? A cut list calculator is a tool that takes a list of panel dimensions you need (e.g., for a bookshelf or cabinet) and arranges them on standard sheets of plywood, MDF, or melamine to minimize material waste. CraftCut is a free, browser-based cut list calculator that runs multiple optimization algorithms automatically and outputs printable cutting diagrams.
How much can it save? Compared to manual layouts, a good cut list optimizer typically reduces sheet material waste by 15–30%, which can save $50–$200 per multi-sheet project at 2026 plywood prices ($80–$150 per 4×8 sheet).
Everything you need in one tool
Most cut list calculators do one thing: pack rectangles into sheets. CraftCut connects the full workflow from rough idea to workshop-ready instructions.
Optimized Layouts
Tests multiple packing strategies (area, height, width, ratio) and picks the best. Shows you exactly which sheets to cut and in what order.
Real-World Constraints
Account for kerf width, grain direction, edge banding, and material thickness. Mix multiple sheet sizes in one project.
Cost Estimation
Set your sheet price and see total material cost, per-panel cost, and waste cost. Know exactly what your project will cost before you cut.
Printable Output
Export cut diagrams as PDF for the workshop, CSV for spreadsheets, or DXF for CNC machines. Each panel labeled and dimensioned.
How the calculator works
Calculating a cut list manually is tedious and error-prone. CraftCut automates the math so you can focus on the design.
1. Define your sheet size
Choose from common presets (2440×1220mm / 4'×8') or enter custom dimensions. Set your kerf (saw blade width) so cuts are accurate.
2. Add your panels
Enter each panel's dimensions and quantity. Or design furniture visually on the canvas and CraftCut extracts the panels automatically.
3. Get optimized cuts
The optimizer tries multiple algorithms (best-fit decreasing, bottom-left, guillotine) and shows you the layout with the least waste. You'll see exactly how many sheets you need and where each cut goes.
4. Print and cut
Export a printable cut diagram with panel labels, dimensions, and a sheet-by-sheet breakdown. Take it to the workshop or send it to your CNC.
Why makers choose CraftCut
- Save material. Optimization typically reduces waste by 15–30% versus manual layouts.
- Save time. What takes hours on graph paper takes minutes in CraftCut.
- No software to install. Runs entirely in your browser. Works on phone, tablet, and desktop.
- Privacy first. Your designs never leave your device unless you choose to sync them.
- Workshop-ready output. Printable diagrams with labels, dimensions, and assembly notes.
- Free to start. No credit card required. Pro features for teams and pros.
Frequently asked questions
Is the cut list calculator really free?
Yes. The core calculator is completely free with no signup required. All calculations run in your browser — your designs stay on your device. Pro features (cloud sync, unlimited projects, watermark-free PDFs) are available with a paid plan.
What materials does it support?
CraftCut supports plywood, MDF, melamine, particleboard, solid wood, and any custom sheet material. You can configure sheet dimensions, thickness, kerf width, and grain direction per project.
How much material can I save?
CraftCut's optimization algorithm typically reduces waste by 15–30% compared to manual layouts. The exact savings depend on your panel sizes and quantities — the more variety, the more the optimizer helps.
Can I export the cut list?
Yes. Export as printable PDF (with cut diagrams), CSV (for spreadsheets), or DXF (for CNC routers). Free tier includes a small watermark on PDFs; Pro removes it.
Does it work offline?
Yes. CraftCut is a Progressive Web App (PWA). Once loaded, it works offline and can be installed to your device's home screen like a native app.
Does it work on mobile?
Yes. The interface is fully responsive — design on your phone in the workshop, or on your laptop at the desk. Cut diagrams are touch-friendly and zoom-able.
Ready to optimize your cuts?
Open CraftCut in your browser and start saving material on your next project. No download, no signup.
Open the Cut List Calculator →