Panel mathYield %Cut planning

Sheet Yield Calculator

Estimate how much of a sheet you’re actually using. Great for quoting, planning, and deciding when a layout is “good enough” versus a waste festival.

What this calculates
Core formula
Yield = (Used Area / Total Sheet Area) × 100%

Used Area should include kerf and practical allowances when you’re doing real-world cutting.

  • • Great for quoting and waste planning.
  • • Works for plywood, MDF, acrylic, aluminum sheet, etc.
  • • Pair with the Visualizer when layout matters.

Sheet Yield Calculator

Estimate how many parts you can cut from a standard sheet and how much waste you’ll have.

How to use

  1. Enter sheet size (example: 48" × 96").
  2. Add parts and quantities (or your total used area).
  3. Include kerf/spacing if your workflow needs it.
  4. Use yield % to decide if you need a second sheet.

Pro tips

  • • Group parts by grain direction (don’t rotate “pretty face” parts unless allowed).
  • • Reserve an edge trim margin for damaged or out-of-square sheets.
  • • Nest small parts in voids around big parts, but keep clamp/hold-down clearance in mind.

FAQs

Can I rotate parts?

Yes, but only if grain direction, strength, and finish appearance allow it. For plywood cabinet parts, grain often matters.

How do I set kerf?

Use your measured blade kerf (table saw often ~1/8" for full-kerf, ~3/32" thin-kerf). For CNC, use bit diameter and add a small buffer if you do finish passes.

© 2026 WoodWorkCalc · Helping makers build profitable, sustainable businesses.