Carpenter how-to
How to Lay Out and Frame a Wall
Accurate layout makes everything that follows (drywall, cabinets, trim) go smoothly.
Accurate layout makes everything that follows (drywall, cabinets, trim) go smoothly. In short: cut; mark; separate, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Cut top and bottom plates to the wall length and tack them together side by side.
Mark stud locations 16 inches on center from one end, plus king and jack studs at openings.
Separate the plates and lay studs on edge between them at each mark.
Nail through the plates into each stud with the specified nails.
Build and install headers over door and window openings with jack and king studs.
Add a second top plate (double top plate), overlapping at corners and intersections.
Raise the wall with the crew, plumb it, brace it and nail it to the floor.
Safety reminders for carpenters
- Use fall protection and inspect scaffolds and ladders before use
- Wear eye and hearing protection with power tools
- Keep blade guards in place and never remove safety features
- Lift with your legs and get help with heavy materials
Key terms
Stud · On center (OC) · Top and bottom plates · Header · Joist · Rafter: see the full carpenter glossary.