This Clever Hack Keeps Your Laser Level In Place While You Work

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When you're attempting to install funky accent shelves, align picture frames, or hang cabinetry with a laser level, you may struggle to keep your line steady. Many laser levels rely on tripods, which you can easily bump into. Others come with nothing at all, so things are constantly shifting mid-project. Laser levels are an essential tool for savvy DIYers doing home improvement projects, so tampering with them completely throws off the straight line and leaves things uneven. Luckily, there is a simple DIY solution that uses materials you likely already have on hand and takes just minutes to put together. 

This clever hack, demonstrated by jeffandlaurenshow on TikTok, uses a strip of painter's tape, a small wooden block, and a nail to hang your laser level in place. This creates a temporary, damage-free mount. One of the primary features of this hack lies in the strip of painter's tape. Compared to standard masking tape, painter's tape is less sticky, so it can remove more cleanly. However, be sure to choose the right kind of painter's tape for your wall depending on the surface or material. You'll also need a hot glue gun, such as this ROMECH Full Size Hot Glue Gun.

First, drill a screw or hammer a nail into your wooden block, leaving some of the nail or screw sticking out. This acts as the hook for your laser level. Then, attach a strip of painter's tape vertically to the wall where you want to place it.  Hot glue the back of the block and press it firmly onto the painter's tape strip. Be careful that the glue stays on the tape and doesn't seep out onto the walls, as hot glue could peel the paint off or damage the material.

Once the block is in place and the glue is dry, you can simply hang your laser level on the nail to project a straight line. Use something like the Amazon Basics Binder Clip to secure your level and hang it from the nail. With the level in place, you can focus on your task at hand instead of needing to readjust. It also saves you from holding the level as you work.

It's important to avoid leaving the painter's tape on the wall for too long. If it stays up for an extended period, it could become more difficult to remove. You can also switch to safe, removable adhesive strips, such as these Command Hanging Strips. Or, try swapping out the wooden block for a lightweight plastic piece (with a spot to hang the level). If you prefer, you can also invest in a small magnetic mount system for your laser level that attaches securely to a magnetic or metal surface.