KerfSmith

Free Kerf Bending Pattern Designer for Laser Cutters

Completely Free v1.0.0

Design Better Bends. Cut Smarter.

Generate optimized kerf patterns in seconds — 10 shapes, live preview, SVG export.

Try Online Now No install • Works in browser • Instant preview Download Standalone App Windows 10/11 • 12 MB • No installer needed
Or run from source: python main.py • View on GitHub

Choose Your Workflow

Both versions are completely free with identical core features

KerfSmith Online

web-app.html — Run in any browser

  • Zero installation — works instantly
  • Runs on Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebook
  • Perfect for quick designs & sharing
  • Auto-saves parameters in your browser
  • SVG download works the same way
Launch Online Tool →

KerfSmith Desktop

KerfSmith.exe — Standalone Windows app

  • Native performance, no browser overhead
  • Works offline — no internet required
  • Full keyboard shortcuts (Ctrl+scroll zoom, drag pan)
  • Remembers window size/position
  • Single .exe file, portable, no installer
Download Windows App →

App Screenshot

KerfSmith app screenshot showing a kerf bending pattern preview with Ellipse slots on a plywood board

KerfSmith preview showing staggered Bone kerf pattern on a 6" × 4" board

Why KerfSmith?

Purpose-built for laser hobbyists, makers, and production shops

10 Slot Shapes

Line, Ellipse, Rectangle, Diamond, Bone, Stadium, Hexagon, Chevron, Wave, Cross—each optimized for different bending characteristics.

Staggered Grid

Offset rows produce smoother bends than aligned grids. Full manual control over slot height, width, and horizontal/vertical gaps.

Live Preview + Zoom

See every cut in real time. Zoom with Ctrl+scroll, pan by dragging. Inspect slot placement down to the pixel.

SVG Export

Save patterns as SVG files in real inch coordinates. Red stroke, ready for LightBurn, LaserGRBL, or any laser software.

Outer Cut Border

Optionally include a perimeter cut line around the board. Toggle on/off with one click.

100% Free & No Ads

No subscriptions, no watermarks, no data collection. Built by a maker for the maker community.

Every Shape You Need

Each slot shape serves a different bending purpose

Line

Simple slot, max bend per cut

Ellipse

Rounded, reduces stress risers

Rectangle

Rounded corners, deep bends

Diamond

Pointed ends, excellent bending

Bone

Hourglass, strong at edges

Stadium

End-caps, very common

Hexagon

Six-sided, strong & flexible

Chevron

V-shape, interlocks when bent

Wave

S-curve, decorative + functional

Cross

+ shape, bends two directions

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about kerf bending with KerfSmith

What is kerf bending?

Kerf bending is a technique where a series of slots (kerfs) are cut into material, allowing it to bend along the slotted line. The remaining material acts as a hinge, and the spacing of the slots determines the smoothness of the bend. Typical for creating curved lamp shades, furniture, and architectural models from plywood.

What thickness of plywood works best?

KerfSmith works with any thickness. Common choices are 1/8" (3mm) and 1/4" (6mm) plywood for lamp shades and decorative projects. Thicker material requires wider kerf spacing; thinner material allows tighter bends.

How do I find the right spacing?

Start with these guidelines: horizontal gap approximately 1.5 times material thickness, slot height about 65% of board height (leaves tabs on top and bottom), slot width around 0.020" for a typical laser kerf. Adjust from there — tighter spacing = smoother bend but weaker structure.

How do I import the SVG into LightBurn?

Open LightBurn, go to File → Import, select your .svg file. The kerf slots will appear as red vectors set to cut. The board outline (if enabled) will also be a red cut line. Adjust your layer settings and hit go.

Is KerfSmith really free?

Yes, always. No ads, no watermarks, no data tracking, no subscription. If you find it useful, consider buying me a coffee to support development.