drywall / panelling marking tool

[dkerr]

I came across a site...

http://www.blindmark.com/index.htm

Looks like a neet tool, never used one, just thought I would get others to coment on its usefullness.

Don

[dremmel]

It says that if it doesn't appear to be plum, then turn it right or left. Like a stud finder, ensuring that you're centered isn't guarenteed. I'll stick with the old way of measuring it out and cutting before I place the drywall. Not to mention, with the gap restriction around the box as per the NEC, I may have an even larger gap if using this tool rather then measuring it out.

[rjsieder]

I have used a set of BlindMarks for hanging drywall and they have saved a lot of time over the measure and cut first method. The magnets are very strong, so the two pieces snap together, with the drywall inbetween, pretty accurately. I then mark the box location with a pencil, remove the outside marker piece, and use a Rotozip to cut out the boxes. I'm still using the box as a pilot for the Rotozip bit. If zipped out properly, you stay within the 1/8" gap rule around the box and have eliminated measuring, layout and precutting for the boxes. Highly recommended.

[Bismarck Jack]

a great solution! Had I only known. I have the similar item that snaps into the outlet box and has pins on the other side. I simply put the sheetrock in place and press against the outlet box. the pins leave a perferated line on the back side of the sheetrock. I just connect the dots and cut. perfect square, perfect fit everytime.

The recessed light one would have been helpful though. I think i cut 25 holes using the measure, guess and hope method:redface:

[scuba_dave]

I usually cut a small hole where the center of the opening is. Then I enlarge it once the drywall is in place

[pushkins]

Easiest way I find is to before placing the drywall measure and put a mark on the drywall to give the box center (roughtly). Then attach the drywall being careful not to pull the sheet all the way in around the outlet/s then with my trusty and very dusty Roto Zip cut a small hole to make sure I'm in the box then simply work your way to the edge and then around the outside edge. If you put just the right amount of tension on the drywall screws nearest the outlet box the drywall will want to "pull in" as your cutting.
I do the same with can lights.