Earth magnets are super small, and are about the size of your pinky fingernail. You can take a branch from your backyard or local park and trim it down so it’s short.

A stud finder can be a bit difficult to maneuver on a ceiling, so a magnet might save you some time and trouble. It may take a few tries before you find the joist successfully. As a general rule of thumb, keep in mind that most joists are spaced 16 in (41 cm) apart. [3] X Research source Whenever possible, it’s best to hang a heavy object from a ceiling joist. That way, the item has plenty of support.

As an extra precaution, you can use a stud finder to find and mark both edges of your ceiling joist. [5] X Research source

For certain objects, like a swing, you’ll want to measure out at least 14 in (36 cm) of space in front and behind the joist so you have enough room to use the object. Double-check with a stud-finder or magnet to make sure any additional marks are still running along the joist. Some large objects must be supported in several places. For these, mount to more than one joist, and if necessary, use large toggle bolts where there is no joist.

Plastic attachments won’t be able to hold as much weight as metal attachments. [9] X Research source

You need to make the pilot hole slightly bigger if you’re drilling into especially hard wood, like maple or oak. If you’re working with softer wood, like pine or cedar, the pilot hole can be slightly smaller. [12] X Research source

You may want to use multiple hanging attachments to help distribute the weight of a heavy object. A single, thick toggle bolt designed for holding heavy objects can carry up to 50 lb (23 kg) on its own.

For instance, if you’re hanging a porch swing, you’ll have at least 2 marks that are more than 2 ft (0. 61 m).

For instance, if your toggle bolt is 2 in (5. 1 cm) long, you’d want the pilot hole to be 2 in (5. 1 cm) long as well.

For instance, if you’re hanging up a chandelier, you’d center the top of the chandelier chain beneath the pilot hole. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it!

The toggle bolt wings are spring-loaded, which allows them to fold down as you install the bolt in your ceiling. As you screw in the bolt, the wings will spread out, providing a lot of security and support for your item. [19] X Research source