Board Feet Calculator
Estimate board feet, waste and material cost.
Calculate →DIY • Workshop • WoodworkingMeasure.
Measure.
Build.
Decide.
MakeGauge turns messy workshop questions into clear numbers, practical recommendations and smarter buying decisions.
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Start with a real project
Our first tools are designed around questions people actually ask before buying material or setting up a workshop.
Lumber Cost Calculator
Turn quantity and unit price into a realistic project estimate.
Calculate →Plywood Calculator
Estimate how many standard or custom sheets your project needs.
Calculate →Drill Bit / Screw Finder
Get a starting pilot-bit recommendation by screw size and wood type.
Find a bit →Workbench Height
Estimate a comfortable bench height from your build style and thumb-knuckle height.
Calculate →Learn before you build
Useful context that helps you use the calculators correctly and make better workshop decisions.
How to Calculate Board Feet
Learn the formula and work through practical examples.
Read guide →Board Feet vs. Linear Feet
Understand the difference between volume and length measurements.
Read guide →Common Lumber Sizes: Nominal vs. Actual Dimensions
See why store labels and finished measurements can differ.
Read guide →Board Feet Examples for Common Boards
Practice the calculation on common board dimensions.
Read guide →How Much Lumber Do I Need for a Project?
Turn a cut list into a sensible purchase estimate.
Read guide →How Much Lumber Waste Should You Allow?
Choose a waste allowance without hiding poor cut planning.
Read guide →Coming next
Tool Finder
Tell MakeGauge what you're building, what you already own and your budget. We'll assemble a practical tool list.
Coming next
Tool Database
Searchable product specs, compatibility, accessories and comparisons — built around real workshop decisions.