There is a simple way to mark drywall for outlet and switch openings.
Drywall is the material of choice to use when finishing either a new wall or repairing an existing wall. Drywall is also known as plasterboard, gypsum board and wall board. It's inexpensive and easy to work with, even for homeowners with limited building experience. One of the trickier aspects of working with drywall is properly marking the location of outlets and switches, so you can cut the openings before attaching the drywall to the wall studs. It's best to know the secret to doing it right, because a small mistake in measurement can cause a lot of extra work and expense.
Instructions
1. Place two or more 3/8-inch wooden shims on the floor directly against the base of the stud wall, spaced out every 1 to 2 feet, where you'll mounting the drywall. Shims are small pieces of different-sized wood used, in this case, to keep the sheet of drywall level and off the floor.
2. Run lipstick around the front edge of the wall box that holds the outlet. You can use chalk, but lipstick is preferable because it is brighter and adheres better to the edges of the outlet box.
3. Place the drywall sheet on the shims, with the help of an assistant, and press it against the wall in the location where you'll be mounting it. Press firmly on the area that's covering the outlet.
4. Pull the drywall sheet away from the wall. The lipstick impression on the back shows you the location of the outlet. Trace this with a pencil if you wish, to have a clearly defined line, and cut.
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