How to Mark Cutouts in Drywall

Marking for Outlets and Switches

• 1

  Cover the edges of the metal electrical boxes with a thick layer of lipstick.

• 2

  Put the drywall in position up against the wall. It's important to get the drywall in the exact position it will be in when installed.

• 3

  Press firmly on the drywall so the back side of it presses up against the electrical boxes. This will transfer the lipstick on the boxes to the back of the drywall, and this is where you should make the cuts.

Marking for Window Cutouts

• 4

  Measure from the edge of the last sheet of drywall that has been hung to the first edge of the window and write down this total. Extend the tape measure and also record the distance from the edge of the drywall to the other side of the window.

• 5

  Measure from the ceiling to the top of the window and write down this number. At the same time, measure from the ceiling to the bottom edge of the window.

• 6

  Position the drywall so it is up against the wall where you will be installing it.

• 7

  Use the tape measure and a pencil to mark the right, left, top and bottom edges of the window.

• 8

  Snap a chalk line vertically on the markings on the left and right and horizontally on the top and bottom markings. You will now be able to see the exact area of drywall that needs to be cut out.