Free Wood Cutting Optimizer.?

[lokki]

Hi,
I was wondering if anyone knew of a free cutting optimizer. Like Cutmaster 2D pro http://www.cutmaster2d.com/ Seems like a handy product but since it will be for ocassional use don't want to spend the big bucks.
just Looking to do simple designs for Arcade Cabinet. Not worth the couple of hundred bucks commercial optimizers cost.

[SteveJ34]

A google turned up these that include at least a free trial period....

http://www.handyarchive.com/free/optimum-cutting

http://www.optimizecutter.com/product-glass-cutting-software.html

http://asia.cnet.com/downloads/pc/swinfo/0,39000587,39050156s,00.htm

I've always just used a pencil, paper or a scrap piece of wood.

[DrewKaree]

Here.  Cut List is what I use.

The middle edition is what I use.

I'd suggest downloading a few trial versions and testing them out to see how intuitive they are to you.

If you've got a graphics program like Photoshop or something, you could use that, as well.

The one I suggest lays out your parts list and optimizes your wood for whatever you want, such as grain, or best use of sheet goods, or whatever.  It's really intuitive FOR ME, but I've been using it for a while now.  Drop me a PM if you need any help with it, or if you want to just give me your measurements and I'll run 'em through it and send you back the cut list you'll need and the pieces you'll require.

[lokki]

A google turned up these that include at least a free trial period....

http://www.handyarchive.com/free/optimum-cutting

http://www.optimizecutter.com/product-glass-cutting-software.html

http://asia.cnet.com/downloads/pc/swinfo/0,39000587,39050156s,00.htm

I've always just used a pencil, paper or a scrap piece of wood.

thanks I had seen some of them, but the trial had many features disabled.

[lokki]

If you've got a graphics program like Photoshop or something, you could use that, as well.

I really suck at drawing (even if it is only stright lines).
What I wanted to do was try combinations of wood sizes 4x4 vs 4x8 and see if it workd work.

[GadgetGeek]

What I've done is cut out scale sized shapes.  Then arrange them as necessary to optimize either cuts or lumber usage (or both to the extent possible).  Then double check measurements and draw up cutting diagram and hope it still works out.