How to Securely Mount a Guitar Hanger to a Plaster Wall

Securing a guitar hanger to a plaster wall is a delicate task that requires careful planning and the right tools. If done incorrectly, it can lead to the plaster crumbling and damage to the guitar hanger. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your guitar stays safely suspended without compromising the wall's integrity.

Materials Needed

Guitar hanger Wall anchors (toggle bolts or molly bolts are recommended) Drill with appropriate bits Screwdriver Level Pencil (Optional) Stud finder

Steps to Secure a Guitar Hanger

Locate a Stud if Possible

Using a stud finder can greatly enhance the support provided by mounting directly into a stud. This offers the strongest support available. If a stud is found, mark its location for future reference.

Mark the Hanger Position

Place the guitar hanger against the wall at the desired height and use a level to ensure it is straight. Mark the screw holes with a pencil.

Drill Pilot Holes

When mounting into a stud, drill pilot holes slightly smaller than the screws. For anchoring into the plaster without a stud, use the appropriate size hole for wall anchors. Toggle bolts require a hole large enough for the toggle to fit through, usually 1/2 inch. For molly bolts, follow the size recommendation on the package.

Insert Wall Anchors

Toggle bolts: Insert the toggle through the hole once it’s inside the wall, pull it tight against the wall, and then screw it down. Molly bolts: Insert the bolt into the drilled hole, then use a screwdriver to expand the anchor behind the plaster.

Attach the Hanger

Align the guitar hanger with the holes or anchors you've prepared and secure it using the screws provided. Ensure the screws are tight but not overly so to avoid cracking the plaster.

Test the Hanger

Before hanging the guitar, gently test the stability of the hanger by applying some pressure to ensure it is secure.

Additional Tips

Weight Consideration

Ensure that the wall anchors used can support the weight of your guitar. Most acoustic guitars weigh between 3 to 5 pounds, while electric guitars can be heavier. Choose anchors accordingly.

Avoid Crumbling

Drilling too aggressively can crack the plaster. Start with a smaller bit and gradually increase the size if necessary.

Use a Backing Board

If you're concerned about plaster crumbling, consider mounting a small piece of wood (such as a 1x6) to the wall first, then attaching the guitar hanger to the wood for added stability and weight distribution.

By following these steps, you can securely mount a guitar hanger to a plaster wall without compromising the integrity of the wall.