How to Hang Stuff on Plaster Walls Without Cracking Them

“Plaster walls can be tricky — use the wrong method, and you’ll hear that dreaded crack.”The right tools and techniques make all the difference.

Plaster walls bring vintage charm and durability, but they’re also notorious for being hard to work with when it comes to hanging decor, shelves, or heavy mirrors. Unlike drywall, plaster is brittle, layered over lath, and prone to cracking if not handled correctly.

This guide will walk you step-by-step through how to hang stuff on plaster walls safely, from lightweight frames to heavy fixtures.

Why Plaster Walls Are Different

Plaster walls were common in homes built before the 1950s. Instead of gypsum sheets (drywall), plaster is applied wet over wooden lath strips.

The result? A hard, dense, but brittle surface. Nails can crack it, and screws may spin without gripping if not anchored properly. That’s why using the right technique is critical.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

• Drill with masonry bit

• Picture hooks or wall anchors

• Toggle bolts or molly bolts for heavy items

• Painter’s tape

• Stud finder (deep scan mode)

• Level and measuring tape

Step-by-Step: How to Hang Stuff on Plaster Walls

Step 1: Find the Studs (If Possible)

Use a stud finder with a deep-scan mode. Plaster often confuses standard stud finders, so you may need to measure 16” increments from a corner.

“When in doubt, tap the wall: a solid sound often means you’ve hit a stud, while a hollow sound means lath.”

Step 2: Mark the Spot and Tape It

Mark the exact spot you want to drill. Place a small square of painter’s tape over it — this prevents plaster from chipping when you drill.

Step 3: Pre-Drill a Hole

Use a masonry drill bit (slower speed, steady pressure). This prevents plaster from cracking.

Step 4: Choose the Right Fastener

Here’s a quick reference:

Item Weight	Best Fastener for Plaster Walls	Notes
Up to 10 lbs	Picture hook or small screw anchor	Good for frames and décor
10–25 lbs	Molly bolts or plastic anchors	Ideal for shelves, medium art
25–50 lbs	Toggle bolts	Best for mirrors, heavy shelves
50+ lbs	Into stud with lag screw	For cabinets, TVs, large mirrors

Step 5: Install the Hook, Anchor, or Bolt

Gently insert your chosen fastener. Tighten slowly to avoid stressing the plaster.

Step 6: Hang and Test

Use a level to align items. Always give a light tug to test stability before leaving it.

Pro Tips for Hanging on Plaster Walls

• Always pre-drill — never hammer nails directly.

• Avoid wall areas near door frames and windows; plaster is thinner there.

• For rental-friendly solutions, use adhesive hooks rated for plaster (but only for lightweight décor).

If you’re dealing with walls that may already have hairline cracks, check out guides like Concrete Crack Repair: Epoxy, the No-Drama Fix to understand how structural fixes differ across materials.

When Hanging Gets Complicated

Sometimes, the issue isn’t just plaster — it’s what’s behind it. Old homes often have uneven walls, hidden pipes, or electrical lines. In those cases, hiring a pro might save you money in the long run.

Cost Considerations

The good news: hanging things on plaster walls costs very little. Most projects require only:

• $10–$15 for a pack of anchors or toggle bolts

• $20–$40 for a decent drill bit set

• Less than $50 total for DIY-ready solutions

Conclusion

Learning how to hang stuff on plaster walls is all about using the right anchors, pre-drilling carefully, and matching the fastener to the weight of the object. Done right, you’ll protect your walls and keep your décor secure.

FAQ

How to hang stuff on plaster walls without cracking? Always pre-drill, use painter’s tape, and install anchors or toggle bolts for heavier loads.

Can you use Command hooks on plaster walls? Yes, but only for lightweight items like small frames — not for shelves or mirrors.

What anchors work best for plaster walls? Molly bolts for medium weight, toggle bolts for heavy weight, and screws into studs for extra heavy items.

Can plaster walls hold a TV? Yes, but only if you mount directly into studs with lag bolts.

Is plaster stronger than drywall? Yes, plaster is denser, but also more brittle — which is why proper hanging technique is critical.