How to Cut Receptacles in Drywall

Drywall, also known as Sheetrock, is the most commonly used material to sheath interior building walls. Lightweight, strong and easily cut, drywall is quickly put up and painted over. After the wall is in place, it is sometimes necessary to modify it in order to add an electrical or other receptacle. This requires careful cutting to make sure the receptacle hole is no bigger than it should be.

Stud finder
Pencil
Drill with 1/4-inch bit
Keyhole saw

Instructions

- 1
  Locate the place where the receptacle is going. Use a stud finder to make sure there are no studs in the way.
- 2
  Place the receptacle against the wall and lightly mark around it with a pencil.
- 3
  Drill a 1/4-inch hole in the upper right corner of the marked area.
- 4
  Insert the tip of a keyhole saw into the hole and saw downwards. Follow the line drawing around until the piece of drywall comes loose.
- 5
  Insert the receptacle into the hole to check the fit. If it is too tight, sand the sides of the hole with coarse sandpaper until it fits.

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