Lumber, board by board
Plan fourteen parts from four 2×4 boards. Label each board and check finished lengths, kerf, and leftovers.
Follow the lumber example →LEARN THE PLAN BEFORE THE FIRST CUT
Turn measurements into a cutting plan.
Follow a complete job from finished part sizes to the order list and the physical boards or sheets on your bench.
These guides use the same calculation engines as the free web planner. Each example states its stock sizes, kerf, and settings so you can reproduce the result and check the material arithmetic yourself.
Plywood, sheet by sheet
Lay out ten shelves across two sheets. See why rotation changes a result and where usable offcuts remain.
Follow the plywood example →Save and use your results
Choose units, compare stock, preserve editable jobs, and understand the CSV and print-to-PDF reports.
Read web planner help →Three measurements to check first
Finished size: enter the part you need after cutting. Usable stock: account for damaged ends and any trimming before planning. Blade kerf: measure the width actually removed by your blade. A nominal stock label and a blade's marked thickness are not substitutes for these checks.
Use a distinct material for different cross sections, thicknesses, species, or grades. Review each generated layout before purchasing and cutting. The planner organizes material usage; it does not design joinery, verify structural loads, or guarantee the absolute best packing.