2x4 workbench cut list
Lumber list for a sturdy 6-foot workbench framed in 2x4s: 72 × 24-inch top frame with a center brace, a matching lower shelf frame and four legs, topped with 3/4-inch plywood. Below, the optimizer works out how many boards to buy.
Parts
| Label | Length in | Qty | Remove |
|---|---|---|---|
Stock boards
| Name | Length in | Qty | Price | Remove |
|---|---|---|---|---|
5 boards, 7.3% waste, 13 of 13 parts placed.
You need: 1 × 2x4 (96″), 4 × 2x4 (120″)
2x4 workbench cut list
With a 1/8-inch kerf, the optimizer places all 13 parts on 1 × 8 ft 2x4 and 4 × 10 ft 2x4 — 7.3% waste and 13 cuts.
| Part | Length | Qty | Stock |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leg | 35 1/4″ | 4 | 2x4 |
| Long rail | 72″ | 4 | 2x4 |
| Short rail | 21″ | 5 | 2x4 |
Assumptions
- Finished height 36 inches: 35 1/4-inch legs plus a 3/4-inch plywood top.
- Long rails run the full 72 inches; short rails fit between them (24 − 2 × 1 1/2 = 21 inches).
- Three short rails in the top frame (two ends and a center brace) and two in the shelf frame.
- The top and shelf are cut from one 4×8 sheet of 3/4-inch plywood (72 × 24 and 72 × 24).
Planning tips
The 72-inch rails decide how you buy lumber: one rail from an 8-foot 2x4 leaves a 23 7/8-inch offcut, just enough for one 21-inch short rail. The optimizer compares 8-foot and 10-foot boards and picks the combination with the least total length.
Pick straight, dry boards for the legs and long rails, and cut the longest parts first so knots and twisted ends can be cut away into the short parts.
New to cut lists? Read how to make a cut list and use the board foot calculator for hardwood.
FAQ
How many boards do I need for a 2x4 workbench?
With a 1/8-inch kerf, the optimizer places all 13 parts on 1 × 8 ft 2x4 and 4 × 10 ft 2x4 — 7.3% waste and 13 cuts. Change any size in the optimizer to recalculate.
Can I change the dimensions?
Yes. Edit any length, width or quantity in the parts list above and the layout updates instantly. Your changes are saved in your browser, and you can export the list as CSV or copy a link.
Does the cut list include the saw kerf?
The part sizes are finished sizes. The optimizer adds the kerf between parts when it lays them out, so you do not need to add it yourself.