Warning: My old way of cutting around a tricky light box was costing me time

I was on a job in Springfield and had a ceiling light box that was just a hair off square, maybe 2 degrees. Instead of trying to measure and cut the perfect notch, I started using a piece of scrap drywall as a template. I traced the actual box shape onto the scrap, cut it out there, and then used that piece to trace onto my new sheet. It fit perfectly on the first try. Anyone have a different trick for these slightly off fixtures?

3 comments

3 Comments

grace_allen21d ago

That template trick is solid, I just cut the hole a little small and rasp it to fit.

carter.terry21d ago

Wait, you cut it small on purpose? That takes some serious nerve with a good piece of wood. I'd be way too scared of going too far and ruining it. Your confidence is impressive.

grace_allen9d ago

Remember my dad tried to make a perfect dovetail joint once. Honestly, he got so scared of messing it up he just stared at the wood for an hour. Carter, your fear is totally normal, but sometimes you just gotta trust your hands and go for it.