flatcut

Flatcut is a descriptive term applied across crafts and industries to denote a cut or profile that is flat, straight, and even. It is used to describe methods, products and styles in fields such as woodworking, metalworking, textiles, hairdressing and manufacturing where components are produced with planar edges or surfaces.

In woodworking, flatcut (often called flat-sawn or plain-sawn) refers to a method of cutting lumber in which boards are sawn tangent to the growth rings, producing broad grain patterns and efficient yield. In metalworking and fabrication, flatcut edges are produced by shearing, milling or laser cutting to create parts that mate cleanly and lay flush. In textiles and apparel, a flatcut pattern produces straight lines and simple silhouettes; in hairdressing, the term is sometimes used informally to describe a blunt or even haircut with minimal layering.

Techniques and tools vary by material: saw blades, planers and jointers for wood; shears, press brakes and CNC cutters for metal and fabric; scissors and clippers for hair. Achieving a true flatcut typically requires accurate setup, steady feed and appropriate finishing to remove burrs or irregularities.

Advantages of flatcut production include ease of assembly, material efficiency and a clean aesthetic. Limitations can include reduced decorative effect compared with textured or patterned cuts and the need for finishing to address surface irregularities. The term is functional rather than standardized, and its exact meaning depends on the trade context.