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Creating a Cut List from Shapr3D
Shapr3D has quickly become the go-to CAD tool for woodworkers and cabinet makers who value intuitive design over complex interfaces. Now, a straightforward workflow connects Shapr3D designs directly to optimized cut lists through OBJ export and Cutlist Evolution. This integration transforms hours of manual measurement and calculation into a few simple clicks.
Step 1: Designing in Shapr3D
Start by building your project in Shapr3D's clean, touch-friendly interface. Whether you're designing a custom kitchen, built-in shelving, or furniture pieces, Shapr3D's modeling tools let you visualize every detail in 3D. The key requirement for smooth export to Cutlist Evolution: stick to rectangular components. This means breaking down your design into individual boards, panels, and shelves—exactly how you'd build it in the shop.
Step 2: Exporting Your Model as an OBJ File
Once your design is complete and separated into individual rectangular parts, export time takes just seconds. Navigate to Shapr3D's export menu, select OBJ format, and save. The OBJ format preserves all the dimensional data needed for accurate cut lists while keeping file sizes manageable.
Pro tip: Double-check that all components are included in your selection before exporting—it's easier to export everything at once than to track down missing pieces later.
Step 3: Importing into Cutlist Evolution
This is where the magic happens. Cutlist Evolution reads your OBJ file and instantly recognizes each component's dimensions. The software transforms your 3D model into a structured cut list complete with part names, quantities, dimensions, and grain direction indicators.
The import process handles the tedious work of measuring and documenting every piece, eliminating transcription errors and missed components. For detailed import instructions, check out the guide here: Importing from OBJ format.
Step 4: Refining Your Cut List
Cutlist Evolution gives you full control over the imported data. Adjust material thickness, rename components for clarity, specify grain direction, or group parts by assembly. You can also define your available stock sizes and let the optimizer figure out the most efficient cutting patterns—saving both material and time.
Benefits of the Shapr3D to Cutlist Evolution Workflow
Speed and Simplicity: What used to take hours of manual measurement now happens in minutes. Design in 3D, export, import, optimize—done.
Accuracy You Can Trust: Direct export from CAD eliminates measurement errors. The dimensions in your cut list match your design exactly, every time.
Shop-Ready Output: Cutlist Evolution generates cutting diagrams, material summaries, and part labels that go straight to your saw station.
Less Waste, More Profit: Optimized cutting patterns typically reduce material waste by 15-20% compared to manual layout, directly improving your bottom line.
The Shapr3D to Cutlist Evolution pipeline represents a practical evolution in woodworking workflow. By connecting intuitive 3D design with intelligent optimization, this approach helps shops of all sizes work smarter, waste less, and deliver projects faster. In an industry where material costs keep climbing and deadlines keep shrinking, that's a competitive edge worth having.