Calculator · Joinery & fasteners
Nail Size (Penny) Calculator
The free Nail Size (Penny) Calculator answers one question: Penny size and length for your board. Enter your numbers in inches or millimeters and the result updates instantly in your browser, with no sign-up and no app to install. Use it on your phone at the bench, then copy or print the result for your cut list.
Rule of thumb: the nail should be about three times as long as the board you're nailing through.
Which other joinery & fasteners calculators help with this project?
- Dovetail Spacing Calculator — Even tail and pin layout for hand-cut dovetails.
- Dovetail Angle Calculator — Convert dovetail ratios to degrees.
- Pilot Hole Size Calculator — Drill bit sizes for wood screws.
- Mortise & Tenon Size Calculator — Tenon thickness, shoulders and length.
- Pocket holes vs. dowels vs. biscuits — Related guide
What you'll need for this project
Tools
Screws & hardware
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Build it · Beginner · Half a day
Download the complete plan with cut list and materials list (PDF)
Nail Chart & Rustic Crate Shelf — Penny-size reference plus a nailed rustic crate wall shelf. Drawings, cut list with board-foot totals, hardware list and step-by-step instructions.