Estimated stock pieces: 2 · First-fit decreasing for one-dimensional strips; not a 2D sheet plan. Stock 1: 30 + 24 + 24; unused 17.75 | Stock 2: 18; unused 78.00 is the example result. The function packs one-dimensional strip lengths using first-fit decreasing. It does not solve two-dimensional sheet nesting or guarantee the minimum number of boards.
The function packs one-dimensional strip lengths using first-fit decreasing.
Turning measured dimensions into a material plan
The function packs one-dimensional strip lengths using first-fit decreasing. It does not solve two-dimensional sheet nesting or guarantee the minimum number of boards. Material quantities begin with the actual surface, volume or part dimensions. A footprint and a sloped surface are different measurements. Pack sizes, offcuts and layout can increase the order above the geometric requirement.
What the model includes
Sort required strip lengths longest first. Place each strip in the first stock piece with space for its length and separating kerf; open another stock piece when none fits. First-fit decreasing is a heuristic, not a guaranteed optimum or a 2D sheet plan. Check the dimension convention and include openings only where the model has a corresponding input. A percentage allowance is a planning adjustment, not a layout simulation. Retain the source drawing or measurement sheet next to the result. Confirm the supplier unit before ordering. Area, volume, board feet and mass cannot be substituted without the thickness or density relationship. Structural suitability and fixing details are outside a quantity estimate.
Example with the supplied inputs
Stock strip length (in): 96; Required strip lengths (in, separated by commas): 24,24,30,18; Kerf per separating cut (in): 0.125. Result: Estimated stock pieces: 2 · First-fit decreasing for one-dimensional strips; not a 2D sheet plan. Stock 1: 30 + 24 + 24; unused 17.75 | Stock 2: 18; unused 78.00. The values are illustrative.
Compare one changed input
Stock strip length (in) changes from 96 to 105.6. The result becomes Estimated stock pieces: 1 · First-fit decreasing for one-dimensional strips; not a 2D sheet plan. Stock 1: 30 + 24 + 24 + 18; unused 9.22. All other inputs remain fixed.
Calculation rule
Sort required strip lengths longest first. Place each strip in the first stock piece with space for its length and separating kerf; open another stock piece when none fits. First-fit decreasing is a heuristic, not a guaranteed optimum or a 2D sheet plan.
Inputs and output
| Input | Example value | Entry convention |
|---|---|---|
| Stock strip length (in) | 96 | Measure stock strip length (in) in the displayed unit. Convert the source measurement before entry if it uses another system; a changed label does not perform a unit conversion. |
| Required strip lengths (in, separated by commas) | 24,24,30,18 | Provide required strip lengths (in, separated by commas) as the source record shown by the example. The tool uses the supplied text and does not retrieve missing facts from an external account. |
| Kerf per separating cut (in) | 0.125 | Use the source quantity represented by kerf per separating cut (in). Keep the counted population fixed and avoid mixing a unit value with a period total. |
Output: Estimated stock pieces: 2 · First-fit decreasing for one-dimensional strips; not a 2D sheet plan. Stock 1: 30 + 24 + 24; unused 17.75 | Stock 2: 18; unused 78.00 is the example result. The function packs one-dimensional strip lengths using first-fit decreasing. It does not solve two-dimensional sheet nesting or guarantee the minimum number of boards. Use the formula to distinguish a cash amount, count, percentage or ratio.
How to use the page
Collect the inputs
Gather Stock strip length (in), Required strip lengths (in, separated by commas), Kerf per separating cut (in). Use one period and the units shown in the form.
Run the calculation
Enter the values and select the action. The calculation rule above explains how the inputs produce the result.
Compare a scenario
Change Stock strip length (in) on its own, keeping the other inputs fixed. Read both results before changing another assumption.
Worked example
With the example inputs listed above, the result is Estimated stock pieces: 2 · First-fit decreasing for one-dimensional strips; not a 2D sheet plan. Stock 1: 30 + 24 + 24; unused 17.75 | Stock 2: 18; unused 78.00.
Change Stock strip length (in) from 96 to 105.6 while keeping every other value fixed. The result becomes Estimated stock pieces: 1 · First-fit decreasing for one-dimensional strips; not a 2D sheet plan. Stock 1: 30 + 24 + 24 + 18; unused 9.22. This comparison isolates that input; it does not forecast how other variables will respond.
Check the stated formula, units and limits before using the result in a decision.
Keep the displayed formula, input units and model scope with the result. Corrections or questions can be sent through the request section on this page.
Content updated: October 11, 2026