Putting nails in plaster walls without having them show requires a careful approach to ensure minimal damage to the plaster and effective concealment of the nail heads. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you accomplish this:
Choose the right nail: Opt for finishing nails or small head nails with a size appropriate for your intended use. Smaller nails tend to be less noticeable and cause less damage to the plaster.
Locate the studs: Use a stud finder or a tapping technique (knocking on the wall and listening for solid sounds) to locate the studs behind the plaster. Nailing into the studs provides better support and stability for hanging objects.
Mark the spot: Once you've located the stud, use a pencil or a small piece of removable painter's tape to mark the spot where you plan to drive the nail. This will help you maintain accuracy and avoid unnecessary holes.
Pre-drill pilot holes: To minimize the risk of plaster cracking, it's recommended to pre-drill small pilot holes before inserting the nails. Use a drill bit slightly smaller than the diameter of the nails you're using. The pilot hole should be slightly shorter than the length of the nail.
Drive the nail: Position the nail in the pilot hole and carefully drive it into the wall using a hammer. Be gentle and use controlled force to avoid damaging the plaster. Stop hammering when the nail is secure but not completely flush with the wall.
Set the nail: Use a nail set or a small punch to gently tap the nail below the surface of the plaster. Take care not to hit the wall too hard, as it may damage the plaster. The goal is to create a slight depression that can be easily concealed.
Patch and conceal: Once the nail is set, you can conceal the depression by using a small amount of spackling compound or lightweight joint compound. Apply the compound over the depression with a putty knife, feathering the edges for a smooth transition with the surrounding wall.
Sand and touch up: After the compound has dried, lightly sand the patched area to create a seamless finish. Wipe away any dust and apply touch-up paint or matching wall finish to blend the repaired spot with the rest of the wall.
It's important to note that this method works well for smaller items or lightweight hangings. For heavier objects, it's advisable to use alternative methods such as wall anchors or picture hanging hardware designed for plaster walls.
Remember, if you're unsure about the process or concerned about damaging the plaster, it's always a good idea to consult a professional or handyman with experience in working with plaster walls.