Cutting Optimization Pro 6: A Comprehensive Review

• Batch similar thicknesses: COP6 works best when all parts have the same thickness. Do not mix 1/4" plywood with 3/4" plywood in the same job.
• Use "Group by Color": Assign colors to different part families (e.g., blue for cabinet left sides, red for shelves). COP6 will try to keep similar colors together on the same sheet, reducing sorting time on the floor.
• Export to DXF for CNC: If you have a CNC router, export the optimized layout as DXF. This allows the machine to cut the entire sheet automatically, following the COP6 nest perfectly.
• Save "Standard Nests": If you cut the same 10 cabinet boxes every week, save the optimized layout as a template. You don't need to re-optimize every time; just multiply the quantity.

Capabilities

By upgrading to COP6, you move from "guessing" to "knowing." You know exactly how many sheets a job requires before you cut the first piece. You know which offcuts to save. And you know your material utilization rate to two decimal places. For a sub-$500 investment, the return is typically measured in days, not months.

Skip it if:

Step 1: Install & Set Units

After purchasing from the official site, launch COP6. Go to Settings > Units. Choose Imperial (inches) or Metric (mm). Under "Kerf," enter your saw blade thickness (e.g., 0.125 inches for a table saw blade).

"COP6 ignores my grain direction."

• Fix: Go to the Parts tab, select the part, and uncheck "Allow Rotation." Then check "Lock Grain." The software will only nest the part in its original orientation.