Abstract: A system for maximizing the board width fitting to a flitch wherein grade lumber rules permit a designated percentage of wane area. The side edges of the minor face of the flitch are assumed to be straight edge line segments. Each line edge segment is established at designated vertical distances. The beginning and end of each line edge segment is thus determined and the relative longitudinal and lateral positions as between the beginning and end of each line segment determines a rectangular area that is assumed to be half surface area and half wane area. The side edge of a board is then computed to include the allowable wane area. Boards may also be force fit from visual examination by designation of the board width that will separate the flawed portion from the non flawed portion.