How to use end-grain cutting board layout
What this calculation does
An end-grain layout counts crosscut slices from a surfaced first panel and estimates the dimensions available for a second glue-up.
Measure the usable first panel, its surfaced thickness, slice width and crosscut kerf before entering the layout.
Enter the measurements
- First panel width: Enter the first panel width.
- Usable first-panel length: Measure usable length after any end trim.
- Surfaced first-panel thickness: Use first-panel thickness after surfacing.
- Crosscut slice width: Choose the crosscut slice width.
- Crosscut kerf between slices: Enter kerf between adjacent slices.
Formula and variables
Slice count = floor((usable first-panel length + kerf) ÷ (slice width + kerf)). Second-panel width = first-panel width; second-panel length = slice count × surfaced thickness; second-panel thickness = slice width. Offcut = usable length − count × slice width − (count − 1) × kerf.
Slice count uses floor((usable length+kerf)÷(slice width+kerf)). Second-panel length is slice count times surfaced thickness; leftover length subtracts slices and inter-slice kerfs.
Read the result
Nine slices create a 12×13.5×2 in second panel with 1 in unallocated length before further cleanup.
Worked example
Inputs: 12 × 20 in usable first panel, 1.5 in surfaced thickness, 2 in slices and 0.125 in kerf
- Slices = floor((20+0.125)÷(2+0.125)) = 9.
- Length = 9×1.5 = 13.5 in; leftover = 20−9×2−8×0.125 = 1 in.
Expected result: 9 slices; second panel 12 × 13.5 × 2 in; 1 in unallocated length
Frequently asked questions
Does this include glue-line or flattening loss?
No. The stated dimensions are before glue-line loss and final flattening.
Are slices guaranteed to be defect-free?
No. Defects, grain selection and final design layout are outside the count.
Conditions, presets and technical notes
Assumes a straight crosscut sequence, equal slice width, kerf only between slices and a surfaced first panel. It excludes glue-line losses, flattening, design layout, defects, end trimming and final board movement.