How to Make a Cut List

When diving into woodworking projects, a well-crafted cut list can make all the difference between a smooth build and a frustrating mess. It is more than just a collection of measurements—it’s a strategic plan that streamlines your workflow, minimizes waste and ensures parts fit together properly. However, if misused, it can lead to costly errors.

In this guide, we’ll break down how to make a cut list effectively, the relationship between cut lists and drawings and the concept of relative dimensioning to improve the accuracy of your builds.

What is a Cut Sheet?

Let’s begin by answering a common question. What is a cut sheet, and is it different from a cut list? A cut sheet (or cut list as I prefer) is a document that outlines all the parts needed for a woodworking project, including their dimensions, material types, and any additional notes that might influence the build. This document ensures that you have all your parts correctly sized before making a single cut, helping to prevent costly mistakes and wasted materials.

The Importance of a Cut List in Woodworking Projects

A cut list serves multiple purposes in woodworking projects:

• Accuracy: Ensures each part is measured and cut correctly.
• Efficiency: Reduces guesswork and speeds up the build process.
• Material Management: Helps estimate the amount of lumber needed.
• Reproducibility: Acts as a record if you want to recreate the project in the future.
• Organization: Keeps your workflow structured, so you know what to cut and when.

A well-made cut list doesn’t just contain numbers—it reflects a thoughtful approach to construction, taking into account adjustments, joinery and material selection.

How to Make a Cut List

1. Start with a Drawing

A cut list and a drawing go hand in hand. The drawing is your roadmap, detailing the shape, size and function of each component. Whether you create your own design or use a published plan, always double-check your measurements before transferring them to a cut list.

2. Get Organized 

When setting up a cut list, categorize the parts logically. A good approach is:

• Solid wood parts (e.g., legs, rails, panels)
• Sheet goods (e.g., plywood, MDF)
• Hardware components (if applicable)

Each piece should be labeled with a part code that matches the drawing. This will help track each component throughout the build process.

3. Define Critical Information

Your cut list should include:

• Quantity of each part
• Finished dimensions (thickness × width × length)
• Material type
• Additional notes (e.g., grain orientation)

Some woodworkers add a “rough size” column to account for extra material needed for milling. Others prefer to make these adjustments during the layout process.

4. Mark Progress with Check Columns

To keep track of your work, include two checkmark columns:

• One for rough layout (before milling and cutting)
• One for final sizing

This method ensures you stay organized and avoid missing parts.

5. Label and Mark Lumber

Before cutting, use chalk or a lumber crayon to mark each part’s code directly on the wood. This step prevents confusion and helps identify pieces throughout the build.

Width vs. Length: Understanding Grain Orientation

A common source of confusion in cut lists is distinguishing between width and length. The golden rule is – follow the grain:

• The grain direction defines the length.
• The shorter dimension perpendicular to the grain is the width.

For plywood, use the face veneer grain as your guide. Keeping this in mind prevents orientation mistakes when assembling your project.

Relative Dimensioning: Cutting Parts to Fit

A critical concept in woodworking is relative dimensioning, meaning that some parts should be cut based on adjacent parts rather than fixed measurements. This technique accounts for discrepancies that naturally arise during a build.

Key vs. Relative Parts

Some pieces in your project should be cut to their exact dimensions from the start, while others should be adjusted during assembly. Let’s look at an example using a simple base cabinet:

• Key Parts: Side panels define the overall height and depth, so they can be cut precisely.

• Relative Parts: The top and bottom widths depend on the dadoes or rabbets they fit into, so they should be adjusted as needed.

• Face Frame Components: Rails and stiles should be cut to fit the assembled case dimensions, not just the plan’s measurements.

• Case Back: Should be trimmed to match the final distance between rabbets rather than a predetermined number.

How to Apply Relative Dimensioning

To incorporate relative dimensioning into your cut list:

1. Identify key parts that must be exact and note them.
2. Mark relative parts with a reminder to fit them during assembly.
3. Adjust dimensions as needed throughout the build process.

Best Practices for Using a Cut List

• Mark waste areas: Clearly label scrap areas to avoid mistakes.
• Cut parts oversized: Add at least 1" extra in length and ¼" in width before milling.
• Let wood acclimate: Store parts in your shop for a few days before final milling.
• Use a consistent labeling system: Match cut list codes to physical parts.
• Recheck before cutting: Always confirm measurements against the drawing.

Projects are Better with a Plan

A well-prepared cut list is the foundation of a successful woodworking project. By following these steps, you’ll reduce errors, optimize materials and improve the accuracy of your builds. Whether you're crafting furniture, cabinets or custom pieces, understanding how to make a cut list will elevate your woodworking skills and streamline your workflow.

Content for this article is updated from the original post by Paul Anthony.