How to Calculate Material for Multiple Projects — Batch Optimization
Running multiple projects at once? Smart batch planning can dramatically reduce total material usage by nesting different jobs together.
The Multi-Project Challenge
Workshops rarely build one item at a time. You likely have different clients, different deadlines, and different projects running concurrently. When you calculate material requirements per project, you end up with numerous half-used sheets across your shop floor.
Why Batch Optimization Works
Batch optimization solves this by pooling all required cuts for a specific material into one calculation. Pieces from Project A can perfectly fill the awkward gaps left by Project B. Combined optimization always equals less total waste. This approach will naturally help you reduce sheet material waste.
Example: 3 Concurrent Jobs
Imagine three jobs running in your shop, all using the same white melamine:
- Job A (Kitchen): 15 panels of various sizes
- Job B (Vanity): 8 panels
- Job C (Shelving): 6 panels
Calculated Separately
- Job A: 8 sheets
- Job B: 3 sheets
- Job C: 2 sheets
- Total: 13 sheets (Avg 16% waste)
Combined Batch
- All jobs nested together
- Small pieces fill large sheet gaps
- Total: 10 sheets (Avg 7% waste)
- Saves 3 entire sheets
How to Batch in CutWize
Batching is easy with a cut list optimizer:
- Create a single material profile (e.g., "18mm White Melamine").
- Add all the cuts from all projects.
- Crucially, use the "Job Name" or "Label" field to tag which client the piece belongs to.
- Optimize. The printed layout will clearly label each cut so your staff knows where to stack it.
When NOT to Batch
While batching saves material, avoid it if the projects require different materials, have vastly different delivery timelines (you don't want parts sitting around for weeks), or if the sheer volume of parts will confuse your shop floor staff.
Frequently Asked Questions
Start Batching Today
Combine your projects and watch your material yield soar.
Related: Cut List Optimizer | Cut List Calculator | Sheet Cutting Optimizer
More: Large Project Planning | Project Material Usage | Best Practices | Example Project