Practical tools for measured work
Face-Frame Layout & Cut-List Generator
Divide a cabinet face frame into equal openings and generate an optimizer-ready stile and rail cut list.
Calculate the layout, check the diagram, then print the result for the shop or jobsite.
Copy each quantity and length into the linear cut-list optimizer. Rails are calculated between stiles; intermediate rails are split by opening column.
How it works
Measure the finished outside frame size, then enter the actual dressed width of the stiles and rails. Columns and rows describe clear openings, not doors or drawer fronts.
Worked example: a 900 by 750 mm frame with 50 mm members and two columns produces two 375 by 650 mm clear openings. Use those openings in the cabinet-door or drawer-box tool after applying the overlay or reveal required by the hardware.
Current-input example
The result above uses these exact values. This snapshot is included when the page is printed so the output can be checked against the original measurements.
- Overall width
- 900 mm
- Overall height
- 750 mm
- Stile width
- 50 mm
- Rail width
- 50 mm
- Opening columns
- 2
- Opening rows
- 1
- Stock thickness
- 19 mm
Primary result: Opening size: 375.0 by 650.0 mm.
Before using the result
- Measure from the datum or reference edge described by this tool, and do not mix inside, outside and centerline dimensions.
- Keep inputs in the displayed units and preserve more precision than the final cutting or purchasing tolerance requires.
- When the result is close to a limit, verify it with a test piece, field measurement, manufacturer drawing or qualified project professional.
Limitations
This assumes square butt or pocket-hole construction with rails between stiles. Add joinery-specific tenons, scribing and finished-opening allowances before cutting. Mill a test joint before processing the full list.
Frequently asked questions
What should I verify before using this result?
Recheck the physical measurements, confirm that every input uses the displayed unit, and compare the result with the applicable drawing, product specification, code requirement or test piece.
Why might the finished result differ?
Real work can include thickness, kerf, seams, tolerances, hardware allowances, installation clearances or site conditions that are outside the calculation. The limitations section identifies the main exclusions for this tool.
Related tools
Cabinet Door Calculator
Calculate stile, rail and panel sizes for a rail-and-stile cabinet door, then send parts to a cut optimizer.
Drawer Box Calculator
Size a drawer box from the cabinet opening and slide length, then send the parts to a cut optimizer.
Linear Cut List Optimizer
Optimize cutting a list of lengths from stock bars/boards, minimizing offcuts and stock used.
Plywood Cut Calculator
Nest an arbitrary parts list onto sheets to minimize waste, with a visual cutting layout you can print.