How to Build Display Niches in Your Walls

Looking for a little pizazz in your boring hallway? In-wall display niches are the ticket. They're easy, cheap and quick. And they will give your bland areas a much needed face-lift.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Drywall Saw
• 2x4 pieces
• Wood screws
• Small pieces of drywall
• Drywall screws
• Drill
• Drywall tape
• Putty
• Sandpaper
• Paint

1. Look before you leap. Even though you've found what you think is the perfect place for a niche, be careful. Walls are filled with electrical wiring, water pipes, heating and air vents and a variety of other things. There are a variety of tools with which to check. In addition to stud finders, there are metal finders and electrical finders. You might need to resort to these tools.

2. Once you're certain you're not going to hit anything vital, cut away. To cut the niche, remove a section of drywall from one stud to the next. Mark your drywall saw with a piece of tape. Tape it so that the blade only extends 3/4 inch beyond the tape. Use this as a guide when cutting through drywall. Cut thin to win. This way, if you failed to detect anything, you'll still be safe.

3. Cut two 2x4s to fit between the studs. Attach one at the top of your desired niche area and one at the bottom. if you aren't using pocket screw or other hidden joinery, you may need to cut enough past the studs to attach from the outsides.

4. Cut drywall pieces to fit on the sides, the top, the bottom and the back of your niche. Attach using drywall screws.

5. Cover all joints with drywall tape and putty. Let dry. Sand smooth.

6. Paint to match your walls or give them another color if you desire.

Tips & Warnings

• If you want to go all out, try installing a light fixture at the top of the niche.