Cut List Example Project — Manual vs Optimized Comparison
See a complete real-world project showing why optimization matters. We break down a standard wardrobe build to demonstrate how software effortlessly saves an entire sheet of material.
The Project: Built-In Wardrobe
We are building a standard 1800mm wide by 2100mm high built-in wardrobe. This requires accurate sheet breakdown to ensure all edges align perfectly.
Materials Needed:
- 18mm white melamine for carcase (2440×1220mm sheets)
- 3mm MDF for backs
Required Parts (Melamine only):
- 2 sides (2100×600)
- 1 top (1800×600), 1 bottom (1800×600)
- 3 shelves (895×580)
- 2 dividers (2100×580)
- 2 doors (2100×450)
Step 1: Manual Cut List
When planning manually on paper, you intuitively place the large pieces first. You place one 2100x600 side per sheet. By the time you fit the dividers and doors, you struggle to fit the shelves efficiently.
Result: 5 full sheets required. Approximately 21% waste, much of it in awkward strips that go into the bin. It is vital to calculate project material usage beforehand.
Step 2: CutWize Optimized Cut List
By running the same parts through our melamine optimizer, the algorithm rotates and nests the parts seamlessly.
Result: Only 4 sheets required. 8% waste, and it yields a large, reusable offcut measuring roughly 1220×400mm.
The Savings Breakdown
| Metric | Manual Layout | Optimized Layout |
|---|---|---|
| Sheets Used | 5 Sheets | 4 Sheets |
| Waste % | ~21% Waste | 8% Waste |
| Planning Time | 30+ Minutes | 2 Minutes |
| Material Cost | $325 (5 x $65) | $260 (4 x $65) |
By using our cut list optimizer, you immediately save $65 and 30 minutes of time on a single, simple wardrobe.
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