How this calculator works
Reserve equal end margins, then distribute equal-width panels and intervening gaps. For recessed work, the gap means the width of the stile between clear openings; end margins include the outer stile zones. Panel height is chair-rail height less cap, upper and lower margins and baseboard. Cut lengths are finished layout lengths before mitres, joints and waste. Count mode finds the most full panels at the entered width and leaves any spare length undistributed.
Formula
wall length = panels x panel width + (panels - 1) x spacing + 2 x end margin; panel height = rail height - cap - top margin - bottom margin - baseboard.
Worked example
A 4 m wall with three panels, 0.2 m end margins and 0.1 m gaps leaves 3.4 m for panels, or 1.133 m each. A 1 m rail height less 0.4 m combined deductions gives 0.6 m panels.
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Frequently asked questions
Are these inside or outside frame dimensions?
Shadow-box mode uses outside finished frame dimensions. Recessed mode uses clear panel openings, with stile width entered as spacing.
Does the cut list include mitre waste?
No. Allow for the moulding profile, joint method, saw kerf and stock lengths before purchasing.
What if outlets or corners interrupt the pattern?
Lay out each uninterrupted wall section separately, then adjust panel count and end margins to suit the room.