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Cabinetry & Furniture

Raised Panel Cabinet Door Calculator

Calculate the dimensions for building a raised panel door.

Building a classic raised panel door requires precise measurements for its five components: two stiles, two rails, and the central panel. The math isn't complex, but it's easy to make a small error that results in a door that's the wrong size or a panel that doesn't fit. This calculator automates these calculations for you.

By providing the desired final dimensions of your door and the width of your frame parts, this tool generates a precise cut list for all components. It also accounts for the depth of the groove that the panel sits in, ensuring the panel is sized perfectly to allow for seasonal wood movement.

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Cut List

Stiles (x2): 2.5" W x 0.000" L

Rails (x2): 2.5" W x 0.000" L

Panel (x1): 0.000" W x 0.000" L

Step-by-Step Instructions & Formula

The calculations determine the size of each part based on the overall door dimensions.

  1. Determine Stile Length: The stiles (the vertical frame parts) run the full height of the door. Their length is equal to the final door height.
  2. Calculate Rail Length: The rails (the horizontal frame parts) fit between the stiles. Their length is the overall door width minus the width of two stiles.
    Rail Length = Door Width - (2 × Stile Width)
  3. Calculate Panel Dimensions: The panel fits into grooves cut into the inside edges of the stiles and rails. Its size is the 'opening' size plus the depth of the grooves on all four sides.
    Panel Width = Rail Length + (2 × Groove Depth)
    Panel Height = Door Height - (2 × Rail Width) + (2 × Groove Depth)
Glossary of Terms
  • Stile: The vertical members of the door frame.
  • Rail: The horizontal members of the door frame.
  • Raised Panel: The central panel of the door, which has a profile cut around its edges so that it is thinner where it fits into the frame's groove.
  • Groove: The slot cut into the inside edge of the stiles and rails to accept the panel.
  • Wood Movement: The natural expansion and contraction of wood due to changes in humidity. Panels must be sized to 'float' in the groove to allow for this.
Frequently Asked Questions

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Pro Tips

  • Always double-check your measurements before cutting.

  • Account for the kerf (the width of the saw blade) in your calculations.

  • Consider wood movement (expansion and contraction) in your final dimensions.

  • Buy 10-15% extra material to account for mistakes and waste.