DIY Network

Installing an In-Wall TV DIY to the Rescue puts a new spin on television viewing. From "DIY to the Rescue" episode DTTR-705

A monitor tucked safely away from little button pushing fingers.

After allowing the new color on the walls to dry, Karl Champley and Larry Schrecker create an in-the-wall TV that is covered with acrylic so Will can’t reach the buttons. They mount it on a shelf inside the closet for easy access and storage of all of the electronic equipment.

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Materials:

utility knife
nail gun
2 x 4 studs
plywood
wood glue
nails
hammer
drill
sheet of acrylic
acrylic knife
screws
molding

Steps:

1. Start by measuring out the opening for your TV. Then, make a hole in the drywall by cutting out the opening with a utility knife (Figure A). And, then, simply knock out the opening with a hammer (Figure B).

Figure A

Figure B

2. Then, cut away any wall studs from the opening (Figure C). Cut 4 - 2 X 4 studs to use as the frame for the hole. Use a nail gun to set the framing studs in place (Figures D & E).

NOTE: It's easier to attach the top and bottom of the frame first and then the sides.

Figure C

Figure D

Figure E

3. Build a supported shelf inside the framed opening to support the weight of the TV (Figures F & G).

Figure F

Figure G

4. Next measure out the four sides of the TV Box to the deminsions of your set (Figure H). And, using the measurement marks, create a guide using clamps and a spare 2 x 4 stud, clamping the stud to the plywood(Figure I). Then, cut out the plywood along the guide.(Figures J).

Figure H

Figure I

Figure J

5. Assemble the box by applying wood glue to each of the plywood panel joints followed by securing with nails. (Figures K, L & M).

NOTE: To make your box more invisible during television viewing, consider painting the inside a dark shade to match your television.

Figure K

Figure L

Figure M

6. Now for the acrylic (Plexiglas) front on the box. Measure using the same outside dimensions as the box (Figure N). And, using an acrylic knife, cut out the acrylic to size (Figure O). Then, break out your cut by "snapping" off the ends (Figure P).

NOTE: Common types of acrylic are Prespex, Plexiglas, & Lucite.

Figure N

Figure O

Figure P

7. Next, pre-drill the holes in the acrylic for attaching to the box. To prevent the acrylic from cracking or splintering, sandwich the piece of acrylic in between two pieces of wood. Drill holes that will be used to attach it to the box (Figure Q). Also, so you can hear the sound, be sure to add a few holes (about 5) in the acrylic where the speaker on the TV will be (Figure R).

Figure Q

Figure R

8. Now it's time to place the box within the opening and on the shelf (Figure S). Before pushing the box completely into place, attach the acrylic face noting where the holes for the speaker are located (Figure T). Then, screw the box into place.

Figure S

Figure T

Figure U

9. Add molding to trim out the box – this allows you to make up for any small measurement mistakes (Figure U).

10. Finally, place the TV in the box. And, you are ready for viewing!