Start with finished parts, not stock guesses
Write one row for every distinct finished part. Give it a name that still makes sense away from the drawing: left cabinet side is easier to check than panel 1. Record finished length, width, thickness and quantity. If two parts have the same size but different face or grain requirements, keep them as separate rows.
The list should answer a simple question: if the part were on the bench now, could another person identify where it belongs and which face will remain visible?
Keep five decisions on the same row
- Part identity: drawing reference and plain-language name.
- Finished size: use one unit consistently and state whether edging is included.
- Quantity: whole parts, not bundles.
- Orientation: face, pattern or grain direction that limits rotation.
- Extra process: lipping, trimming, planing, sanding or a later fitted cut.
Do not bury a machining allowance inside a dimension without marking it. Either list the finished size and a separate allowance, or enter the enlarged blank size into the layout tool and say that it is a blank.
Reconcile the list before layout
Total the quantities by thickness and material. Check mirrored pairs, repeated shelves and left/right parts against the drawing. Then compare the list with the stock you can actually buy or already have. A theoretical sheet size is not evidence that a damaged edge, face defect or transport cut is usable.
Use the plywood and sheet calculator when the job is covering one rectangular surface. Use the cut list optimiser when several rectangular parts must share sheet stock.
Separate layout from cutting sequence
A layout shows where parts fit. It does not tell you that a particular first cut is supported, reachable or appropriate for your equipment. Mark the intended sequence separately after checking the tool instructions, work support, blade path and the way each part will be controlled.
The cut list optimiser allows for the kerf you enter between adjacent placed parts, but it does not model clamps, defects, handling, grain matching or the safest order of work. Treat the output as a bench discussion, not a command.
Completed cutting-list example
| Part | Material | Finished size | Qty | Face / grain | Extra process |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Left side | 18 mm birch plywood | 720 × 400 × 18 mm | 1 | Long grain vertical | Front edge lipped |
| Right side | 18 mm birch plywood | 720 × 400 × 18 mm | 1 | Long grain vertical | Front edge lipped |
| Adjustable shelf | 18 mm birch plywood | 600 × 300 × 18 mm | 3 | Long grain across width | Front edge lipped |
This example keeps mirrored sides separate even though their sizes match, states the face direction before rotation is considered and records the later lipping step beside the finished dimensions.
Final two-minute check
- Every part name appears on the drawing.
- All dimensions use the same reference: finished part or oversize blank.
- Thickness and material are explicit.
- Face and grain rules are visible before rotation is allowed.
- Quantity totals match pairs, shelves and repeated frames.
- Kerf, trim, defects and later fitting cuts are recorded.
- The cutting sequence is checked separately from the layout.