When planning a build—whether it’s a kitchen benchtop, office desktop, or floating shelves—one of the first decisions to make is how you’ll source your material. For builders, cabinet makers, and joinery workshops, this often comes down to choosing between ordering cut-to-size panels or full sheets.
Both approaches have their place, but the right choice depends on the type of project, workshop capacity, and installation requirements.
What Are Cut-to-Size Panels?
Cut-to-size panels are prepared to your exact dimensions before delivery. This means every piece arrives ready to install or assemble with minimal cutting required in your workshop.
Advantages:
Time savings: No need for lengthy measuring and cutting on-site.
Reduced waste: Panels are cut precisely, meaning less offcut material to store or discard.
Consistent accuracy: CNC cutting ensures precise measurements and clean edges every time.
Simplified logistics: Smaller pieces are easier to handle, especially in tight-access sites.
Considerations:
Less flexibility if changes are needed during installation.
Requires highly accurate measurements during ordering to avoid sizing errors.
Best suited for:
Workshops without large cutting equipment, projects on tight deadlines, and installers working in small or challenging spaces.
What Are Full Sheets?
Full sheets are supplied in their original size, giving you complete control over how they’re cut and used. This approach puts more of the fabrication work in your hands.
Advantages:
Flexibility: Adjust measurements and cut layouts on the spot if site conditions change.
Material efficiency: Plan your own cuts to maximise sheet use for multiple components.
Creative control: Ideal for custom designs, non-standard shapes, or last-minute modifications.
Considerations:
Requires larger workshop equipment such as panel saws or CNC machines.
Produces more offcuts that need to be stored or disposed of.
Cutting and edge-finishing time must be factored into project schedules.
Best suited for:
Workshops with in-house cutting capabilities, projects with evolving design requirements, or builds that require unique shapes and layouts.
How to Decide for Your Project
1. Consider Your Workshop Setup
If your workshop isn’t equipped for large sheet handling or precision cutting, cut-to-size may be the most efficient option. If you already have the machinery and space, full sheets may give you more creative freedom.
2. Look at Your Timelines
Tight deadlines often favour cut-to-size, as installation can begin immediately on delivery. Longer lead times may allow for full sheet processing without impacting schedules.
3. Factor in Labour Costs
Cutting full sheets in-house takes time, and time is labour cost. For some projects, outsourcing the cutting to your supplier may be more cost-effective.
4. Think About Waste Management
If storage space for offcuts is limited, cut-to-size reduces waste handling. On the other hand, full sheets can be more economical if offcuts will be reused in future projects.
How AMS Supports Both
At AMS, we supply laminate, acrylic, and compact laminate panels in both cut-to-size and full sheet formats. For cut-to-size orders, our precision CNC equipment ensures every panel is ready for immediate installation. For full sheet orders, we offer a wide range of sizes and finishes so you can fabricate exactly what your project needs.
Whether you’re fitting out a large commercial space or working on a custom residential project, AMS makes it easy to order materials the way that works best for your workshop. With delivery to site or your premises across Brisbane and surrounding regions, we help keep your workflow moving.
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