Use a stud finder which you can buy at your local hardware store.
How to hang heavy items on a plaster wall.
If you re hanging heavy objects use screws with anchors for added protection.
When finder passes over a nail the magnet.
Instead use a screw because they won t break the plaster wall.
Move the stud finder approximately 16 inches to the right or left of the mark.
If you can hang your heavy object in line with a stud and screw a long screw directly into the stud that s always the best option.
They re typically placed on the stud line.
It s actually not too hard to hang things on plaster walls however as long as you use screws and work slowly and carefully.
Plaster hooks or hanging picture hooks are a common solution for hanging pictures on plaster wall.
How to hang heavy objects on plaster walls.
Check for nails along your baseboard.
This is the standard.
Light items screws and screws with masonry anchors for heavy items are your best choice for hanging things on plaster walls without picture rail.
Move the stud finder over the plaster wall across the spot where the heavy object will hang.
Even more so if you live in an old house with plaster and lath walls.
As mentioned earlier avoid using nails on plaster wall because they will likely cause the drywall to crack.
Knock on the wall when you re over a stud the sound will be a more solid thump.
Pre drill the holes and use fairly long screws to ensure a secure fit.