How the linear cut list works
- Under Stock lengths, enter the length you buy, such as 8 ft, 10 ft or 12 ft boards. Add more lengths if you have offcuts.
- Under Parts, enter each length and how many you need.
- Set the blade kerf and the end trim in Cutting settings. End trim squares a rough or checked end before the first measurement.
- Read the plan: one strip per board, every piece numbered, and the leftover at the end.
Measure from the squared end
Each piece is measured from the end you just cut, the way you work at a miter saw with a stop block. The plan already subtracts the kerf between pieces, so the last piece is not short. Identical boards are grouped, so a frame that needs four boards cut the same way shows one plan with ×4.
Good for
- 2x4 and 2x6 framing, workbenches and shelving
- Face frames, rails, stiles and trim
- Aluminium profiles, steel tube and PVC pipe
- Dowels, battens and anything sold by length
Add a price per board and the shopping list shows how many boards to buy and what they cost.
Questions
Does the linear optimizer include the saw kerf?
Yes. Every cut subtracts the kerf you set, so the pieces add up to what the board really gives.
Can I mix board lengths?
Yes. Add each length you have, with a quantity if it is limited. Leave the quantity blank to buy as many as needed.
Can I use it for metal or PVC?
Yes. The plan works for any stock sold by length; set the kerf of the blade you cut with.