Paper Cutting Calculator

This tool is designed to help you quickly figure out the best way to cut your cardstock or Designer Series Paper based on the size of the paper you're starting with and the size of the pieces you need.

Start by selecting your paper size. You can choose from 8 1/2 by 11 inches, 12 by 12 inches, or 6 by 6 inches.

Next, choose whether your paper is directional. Directional paper simply means that the design has a clear top and bottom — paper with words, trees, flowers growing in one direction, or a scene would all be considered directional. If you select "Yes," the calculator will keep all of your finished pieces oriented in the same direction. If your paper is not directional, select "No" — this gives the calculator more flexibility to rotate your pieces and find the most efficient cutting layout.

Next, enter the finished size of the piece you need — the width and the height in inches. You can enter whole numbers, decimals, or fractions, so measurements like 4, 4.25, or 4 1/4 will all work.

Then enter the quantity you need. If you don't have a specific quantity in mind and simply want to know how many pieces you can get from one full sheet, select "Cut the maximum from one sheet."

Next, choose your cutting priority — use the fewest sheets, create the least scrap, or make the cutting process as simple as possible.

Once everything is entered, click "Generate cutting plan." The calculator will show you how many full sheets you'll need, how many pieces you can cut from each sheet, the total number of pieces produced, and whether you'll have any extras.

You'll also see a visual cutting diagram. The outside edge represents your full sheet of paper, and the dashed lines show where to make your cuts. The measurements are marked directly on the diagram, and if you're using directional paper, you'll also see an arrow showing which way the design should remain oriented.

Finally, the calculator gives you a numbered cutting sequence so you can follow the cuts step by step. Once your plan is generated, you can head straight to your paper trimmer and start cutting with a clear plan in place.