ArtCalcs.uk
Wood Panel Construction Calculator — Materials & Dimensions
Calculate materials needed for building wooden painting panels.
How We Calculate This
Panel weight = face area × thickness × wood density. The face area in cm² is multiplied by the panel thickness in cm and the wood density (birch ply 0.68, MDF 0.75, poplar 0.42 g/cm³) to give grams, then converted to kg.
Cradle bars (40 mm wide battens): two side bars run the full panel height, two top & bottom bars fit between them (panel width minus 80 mm), plus an intermediate cross bar at each spacing interval. The cut list is shown in cm and mm.
Gesso: ~125 ml/m² per coat (Golden acrylic gesso), multiplied by the number of coats. A torsion box is skinned on both faces, so its panel weight is counted twice.
Frequently Asked Questions
A cradled panel has wooden battens (cradles) glued to the back of a flat panel to prevent warping and add depth. The cradles are typically 38-50 mm deep and spaced every 200-300 mm. Cradled panels can be displayed without a frame.
For uncradled panels up to 30 cm: 6 mm is fine. For 30-60 cm: 9-12 mm. For cradled panels, 6 mm is standard because the cradles provide structural support. MDF panels need to be slightly thicker than plywood.
Apply at least 3 coats of gesso, sanding lightly between each coat with 220-grit sandpaper. More coats give a smoother surface. For oil painting, some artists apply up to 5 coats to fully seal the wood.
Birch plywood is stronger, lighter and more resistant to moisture, but has a slight grain texture. MDF gives a perfectly smooth surface but is heavier and more vulnerable to moisture damage. Both work well for painting when properly primed.
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Last updated: March 2026
All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities before purchasing materials.