How to use Box Studio

Box Studio generates laser-ready SVG files for finger joint boxes in three steps. No desktop software, no account required.

What is kerf and why does it matter?

Kerf is the width of material removed by the laser beam during cutting. It typically ranges from 0.10 mm to 0.25 mm depending on the machine, material, and settings. Without accounting for kerf, finger joints will be loose — the panels won't hold together without glue.

To find your kerf: cut a 100 mm square from your material, measure it with digital calipers, and calculate (100 − measured) ÷ 2. Enter that value in the Kerf field. Box Studio compensates the joint geometry automatically. You can also use the Kerf Calculator tool.

Finger joints, finger holes, and flat — which to choose?

Finger joints are the standard option: rectangular tabs interlock across all four edges. Best for boxes that need to be strong and flat when laid out for cutting. Finger holes insert side panels into rectangular cutouts in the front and back panels — useful when you want the sides to slide in and out. Flat outputs panels with no joints at all — for when you'll assemble using glue, snap-fit hardware, or your own joinery.

Adding internal dividers

Use the Dividers section to add a grid of internal compartments. Set rows (Y) and columns (X) to create a uniform grid, or switch to custom positioning to place each divider at an exact mm offset. The dividers slot into each other using half-depth cross-cuts, and into the box walls using the same finger joint system.

Recommended materials

Box Studio works with any flat sheet material your laser can cut. These are the most common choices:

MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard)

The most popular choice for laser cut boxes. MDF cuts cleanly, has consistent thickness, and holds finger joints well. 3 mm MDF is ideal for small to medium boxes. Use 6 mm for larger boxes that need structural rigidity. Always use ventilation — MDF releases formaldehyde when cut.

Plywood (Baltic birch / Laser-grade)

Stronger than MDF and has a natural wood grain appearance. Use Baltic birch or laser-grade plywood — standard construction plywood contains voids and adhesives that cause uneven cuts. 3 mm and 4 mm thicknesses are most common for box making.

Acrylic

Produces clean, polished edges and a professional finish. Cast acrylic cuts better than extruded. Acrylic requires lower speed and higher power than wood. It releases toxic fumes — mandatory fume extraction. Kerf values with acrylic tend to be slightly lower (0.10–0.15 mm) than with wood.

Which thickness to use?

For most desktop laser cutters (CO2 40–80W, diode 20–40W): 3 mm is the standard. It cuts in a single pass, produces well-proportioned finger joints, and is easy to source. Use 6 mm when you need structural strength or larger finger tabs. For miniature boxes or detail work, 2 mm works well with smaller finger sizes (4–5 mm).

Compatible software

The SVG files generated by Box Studio are standard vector files that work with any laser cutter software:

Import the SVG as-is. Each panel is a separate closed path. In LightBurn, assign the cut layer (black strokes) to your cut profile. No grouping or ungrouping needed.

Frequently asked questions