Looking to add utility and easier access to your basement? Use this guide on the cost to cut a concrete wall to add a door to your basement.
How To Cut a Circle in Drywall in Under 60 Minutes
With the right tools and a steady hand, you can cut a circle in drywall on your own
Get quotes from drywall pros near you
No obligation · 100% free
Get quotes from drywall pros near you
No obligation · 100% free
SKILL LEVEL
Simple
COMPLETION TIME
1 hour
COST
$100–$500
Get quotes from up to 3 pros!
Enter a zip below and get matched to top-rated pros near you.
What you'll need:
TOOLS
- Utility knife
- Drywall saw
- Keyhole saw
- Drywall router
- Drywall t-square
SUPPLIES
- Drywall panels
- Measuring tape
- Straight edge or ruler
- Safety gear
- Drop cloth or plastic sheeting
In the world of DIY home improvement projects, knowing how to cut a circle in drywall can be a valuable skill. Whether you're installing a new light fixture, creating an access point, or adding a decorative element, mastering this technique can make your projects seamless and professional. In this guide, we'll walk you through the step-by-step process of cutting a circle in drywall. With the right drywall tools and a bit of know-how, you'll be able to tackle curved openings with confidence.
Prepare Your Work Area
Photo: FreshSplash / E+ / Getty ImagesBefore you start cutting any drywall, clear the area around it, removing any furniture or obstacles. You should also cover the floor with a drop cloth or plastic sheeting to catch any dust and debris. Don’t forget to protect yourself as well—put on safety glasses and a dust mask to protect your eyes and lungs from dust particles.
Measure and Mark the Center
Photo: Johner Images / Johner Images Royalty-Free / Getty ImagesNow, it’s time to determine the center point of the circle you want to cut. Use a tape measure to measure from the nearest edges to find the center and mark the center point with a pencil or marker.
Set the Compass
Once you know where the center point of the circle is, you can adjust the compass to the desired radius of your circle. Measure from the center point to the outer edge of the circle you want to cut.
Score the Circle
When you’re ready to score the circle and prepare it for deeper cuts, place your compass point at the center mark and gently rotate it to score the drywall's surface. It’s important to ensure that the compass stays upright while scoring.
Extend the Cut Lines
Photo: v_zaitsev / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty ImagesNext, you will extend the cut lines by using your drywall t-square to extend the scored lines, creating straight lines radiating from the center point to the edge of the circle.
Cut the Circle's Perimeter
With your utility knife, carefully cut along the extended lines, forming the outer edge of the circle. Apply firm but controlled pressure to avoid tearing the drywall.
Create an Access Hole
In the center of the circle, create a small access hole with your utility knife. This will allow you to insert the jigsaw blade.
Cut the Circle with a Jigsaw
Photo: photovs / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty ImagesNow that you have created an access hole, you can insert the jigsaw blade through it. You can accomplish this by starting the jigsaw and guiding it along the circular line, following the scored edge. Keep a steady hand and move the jigsaw slowly to maintain a smooth cut. Be cautious as you approach the end of the cut to prevent any splintering or tearing.
Clean Up
Once you are done cutting your circle, turn off the jigsaw and remove it from the access hole. Gently sand the cut edges of the circle with sandpaper to smooth any rough spots.
Patch and Finish
Photo: eyjafjallajokull / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty ImagesIf you're creating the hole for a specific purpose, such as installing a light fixture or access panel, you may not need to patch the hole. If patching is required, use a joint compound and a putty knife to fill any gaps or seams around the cut circle. To do this, you will need to apply mesh tape to reinforce the seams and let it dry completely. Then, sand the patched area smoothly and repaint it to match the surrounding wall.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Cutting a circle in drywall yourself can cost as little as the price of a jigsaw, utility knife, and other basic tools, which may total around $50 to $100–or less, if you already have them on hand. Hiring a professional drywall installer, however, can cost significantly more, with labor costs ranging from $100 to $300 or more, depending on the complexity of the job.
Additionally, professionals may charge extra for materials and patching or drywall installation, making the DIY approach more cost-effective for simpler cuts. That being said, if you don’t own any of the tools or supplies needed for this project, you could end up spending more to do the work yourself. You should price both options to determine which is more cost-effective for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Drywall services reviews from real Angi homeowners in Columbus, OH
4.9★ avg. • 25 total reviews
- Joseph D.
Cancelled appointment two hours after they were supposed to come for drywall work.
Hutch And Sons Drywall Services - Austin Y.
I would recommend this company to anyone! He showed up on time, was friendly, completed a very difficult repair on our dryer vent cover, was responsive, and pricing was extremely fair and competitive. I would have him back to do any of our repairs or cleanings without hesitation!
U.S.A. Dryer Vent, LLC - Mark B.
I cant stop admiring my newly painted walls. Custom Paint Jobs LLC made my house feel brand new.
Custom Paint Jobs, LLC - Lia P.
Excellent experience with hiring Tether House to Mount our 77’ Samsung TV in our bedroom. Fast, friendly, and knowledgeable. Highly recommend.
Tether House - Warren C.
Excellent customer service and knowledge. I was recommend to him from my neighbour. My front door and window came in great and were installed beautifully perfectly, I m very satisfied with their excellent work, so decided to order one more big bow window for my living room. I cant wait for...
Window Depot USA of Central Ohio - Rob B.
Manuel Calvillo is the best option in the area for roofing and you won't be disappointed.
- Kathy W.
Would hire again. Wall looks great. Happy with job.
Central Paving - Kendrick V.
Involved an extensive bathroom remodel, including removing tub & installing walk in shower, new drywall, custome tile work to ceiling, plumbing, etc. Overall, job was done on time and on budget. Nick & his team were very professional and had high attention to detail. Quality was great. Highly...
Stamos Flooring and Remodeling LLC - Craig M.
We have had a great experience with Rising Height for the past five years on a number of miscellaneous renovation projects. They laid flooring for us and had a very good sub do the finish. Installed drywall for a vaulted ceiling, finished an attic/loft with new subfloor, framing and drywall,...
Rising Height Unlimited - Scott A.
Mr. Lopez was super nice and professional. He repaired our drywall just as he described during the estimate phase. Our dining room wall looks great again! Thanks Mr. Lopez!
The homeowners guide to drywall services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Whether you’re renovating a room or finishing a home addition, this guide on how to cut drywall will make your job easier and help keep your home neat.
Ready to tackle that drywall project? Use this handy guide to make sure you have all the right tools for drywall perfection before you get started.
To install electrical plugins, you may need to cut outlet holes in drywall. Follow these steps to ensure you cut a perfectly sized hole.
Peeling paint or brown spots on your walls? You probably have water damage. Get step-by-step instructions for how to repair water-damaged drywall in this guide.
Fixing up your drywall can make a big difference in your home. Unless you have a large hole or a damaged corner, drywall repair is usually straightforward. Learn the best drywall repair tips along with the tools and supplies you need.