Making an Electrical Box Template

From Zanecorpwiki

Templates are primarily for old work boxes (used for adding outlets into existing sheet rock). With new work, the boxes are nailed to studs and the box itself can be used to guide a hand saw to cut out the hole.

Take a look at the near end of the box (where the faceplate attaches). The old work box has two or more tabs that swing up and clamp against the back of the sheet rock/wallboard. On some boxes, there's a raised edge on the near end, and you'll cut a rectangular template. If there is no raised edge, it's best to the hole to fit, which will mean you want cut out around the tab so you're removing as little of the sheet rock as possible.

Place the back of the box on a good stiff piece of cardboard and trace out the edges. Using a utility knife, cut the hole conservatively and push the box through the template. Cut away where it catches until you can just get the box through the hole.

See also installing an old work electrical box.