Wall sconces are a great way to add a touch of elegance and functionality to your home, and learning how to install a wall sconce is not too difficult.
Whether you’re creating mood lighting in the living room, adding task lighting in your bathroom vanity, or simply upgrading an exterior wall, learning how to install wall-mounted lights can completely transform a space. And guess what? With a few tools, some prep, and a little patience, this is a DIY installation you can totally handle yourself.
Below you’ll find a simple, beginner-friendly step-by-step guide that walks you through everything you need to know to install wall sconces yourself, from planning to the final step of flipping the switch. Let’s get started!
Here’s a quick checklist of necessary tools and materials:
Optional Extras:
Before you grab your drill, take a beat to really think about where your perfect wall sconce is going. Consider your room’s style, layout, and furniture placement. Is it accent lighting? A pair of single sconces on either side of artwork? You want the vibe to feel intentional.
Pro Tip: Use painter’s tape to mark your layout directly on the wall and step back to assess the look.
Let’s talk height. A fast rule? Wall sconces should be mounted roughly 60 to 66 inches from the floor to the center of the light. If installing multiple fixtures, make sure they’re level and symmetrical.
Use a stud finder to locate wall studs. If none are where you need them for ideal placement, don’t worry. Drywall anchors will do the job. Make sure your sconce isn’t blocked by furniture and is within reach of a power source.
Design Tip: Think about eye level when placing your light, especially in dining rooms or reading nooks.
Head to your circuit breaker and shut off the power to the installation area. Then double-check with a voltage tester to ensure the wires are dead. No one wants an electrical shock—trust me.
Bonus Tip: Let everyone in your household know the breaker is off so no one flips it back on mid-project.
Once you’re sure there’s no power, remove the old fixture (if there is one), unscrew the cover plate, and gently pull out the existing electrical wiring. You’ll likely see a black wire, white wire, and bare copper wire (your ground).
Strip about 1/2 inch off the ends of the wires if needed. Now’s also the time to do any necessary drywall cutout or drywall jab for the junction box.
Your new wall sconce should come with a mounting plate or mounting bracket. Attach this to the outlet box using the provided screws. Make sure it’s level!
Pro Tip: If your mounting plate doesn’t sit flush, you may need to adjust with washers or additional screws. Don’t skip the level.
This is the part that sounds scary, but follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take it slow.
Tuck the extra wires neatly into the box.
Align your sconce base with the mounting plate and secure it with the provided screws. If your fixture includes a light bulb socket, now’s the time to install the bulb.
Some wall sconce lights include shades or additional details—attach those last. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for assembly.
Head back to your electric service panel, flip the circuit breaker back on, and test your wall switch.
Voilà! Your new sconce is live.
If running wire sounds overwhelming, here’s a great way to cheat the look: use battery-operated bulbs or puck lights inside a sconce shell. This is perfect for renters or temporary setups.
It’s not recommended. A junction box provides the safe enclosure necessary for your electrical wiring. If one isn’t present, have a pro install it, or go the puck light route.
Yes. Even if the light is off, wires can still carry current. Always use a non-contact voltage tester to double-check.
A good rule of thumb is to mount it around 60-66 inches from the floor, or eye level, depending on the use.
Use drywall anchors for support. Your stud finder will help you locate framing if it’s available, but anchors are great for lighter fixtures.
If you’re not comfortable doing electrical work or don’t have access to a power source, hiring out is always a smart move.
You’ll typically see three: black wire (hot), white wire (neutral), and bare copper wire (ground). Use wire connectors, match colors, and follow all safety steps.
Yes! Use puck lights or battery-operated bulbs inside the fixture for a cordless, renter-friendly option.
Installing a wall-mounted light fixture might sound intimidating, but with the right tools and this guide, the entire project becomes surprisingly doable. Take it step by step, use safety as your guide, and don’t be afraid to call in professional installation if needed.
Trust yourself. You’re more than capable of adding this touch of elegance to your own home. And once you see that glow on your wall? You’ll know you made the best decision.
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