Practical guide

How to Prepare a Kerf-Aware Lumber Cut List

Measure stock, parts, trim and saw kerf before creating a one-dimensional cutting plan.

Use this guide before opening the lumber cut-list optimizer.

Measure usable stock

Record full stock length, then separately record unusable trim at both ends. Do not hide trim inside a shortened stock number if you need a transparent material record.

Measure kerf

Make a representative test cut with the intended blade and process, then measure the lost width. Kerf is charged between adjacent parts—not automatically after the final part.

Prepare part rows

List finished required lengths and whole-number quantities. Add machining or squaring allowance to the part requirement only when the shop process calls for it. Keep grain-sensitive, defect-sensitive and differently oriented pieces in separate planning groups.

Review before cutting

Print the plan, mark stock pieces, and compare the actual material for defects and usable ends. A heuristic plan is a starting point; the operator remains responsible for machine setup, safe workholding, cut sequence and final dimensions.