How to Install a Wall Niche

Using a drill/driver fitted with a 1/8-inch drill bit, make a vertical series of holes toward each side of the outline to locate the horizontal gaps between strips of wood lath. Use a straightedge to draw cut lines between holes where the bit punched through. Then, with a reciprocating saw, make horizontal relief cuts within the niche outline, but keep them shallow to avoid damaging any wires and such. This approach will allow the material to come out in clean sections and also prevent saw vibrations from causing plaster to crumble or crack beyond the outline. Now cut all the way through the perimeter of the outline, and remove the lath and plaster.

TOH Tip: Align the saw blade parallel with the wall, anchor the shoe, turn on the saw, and then dip the blade into the cut line. This should prevent the tip from bouncing off the wall.