This reference page covers everything you need to know before buying: what products we offer, the real-wood materials we use, how switch plates are sized and measured, definitions for every device type you'll encounter, and screw & hardware details. Whether you're replacing a single cover or outfitting an entire remodel, the information below will help you choose with confidence.
Our Products
Each piece is laser-cut and laser-engraved from real-wood veneer panels with an MDF core — no plastic (unless you are looking to purchase acrylic covers!), no paint, no faux finishes. The wood grain you see is genuine hardwood.
Wood Switch & Outlet Plates
Laser-cut from real hardwood veneer panels. Fits standard toggle, Decora/rocker, duplex outlet, and GFCI openings. Available in 1-gang through multi-gang configurations in your choice of wood species.
Shop Wood Plates on Etsy →Acrylic Switch & Outlet Plates
The same precise laser-cut configurations in colorful cast acrylic. A bold, modern look in a range of colors and finishes. Same sizing and fitment as our wood plates.
Shop Acrylic Plates on Etsy →Backing Plates
A solid wood backer that sits between the wall and your cover plate, adding depth and a finished, furniture-quality shadow-line effect. Raises the plate 1/8" from the wall surface.
Shop Backing Plates on Etsy →Switch Plate Screws
Sets of 8 decorative screws in antique brass, black, chrome/silver, and white. Standard 6-32 thread — a direct drop-in replacement for the plain screws that come with your devices.
Shop Screws on Etsy →Wood Species & Materials
All covers are made from 1/8" finished MDF-core wood panels — real hardwood veneer bonded to a stable MDF core, finished on both sides. This construction keeps the plate flat, prevents warping with humidity changes, and gives a perfectly smooth surface that laser-engraves cleanly. The veneer you see and touch is genuine hardwood.
About the Construction
- Veneer face: Authentic hardwood slice — the grain, figure, and color are 100% real wood.
- MDF core: Medium-density fiberboard provides dimensional stability. Unlike solid wood, MDF won't expand and contract with seasonal moisture changes, so your plate stays flat on the wall.
- Pre-finished: Both faces arrive with a smooth, protective finish — no sanding, staining, or sealing needed on your end.
- Thickness: 1/8" (approximately 0.12–0.14", depending on species).
Rich, dark brown with a straight, flowing grain. One of North America's most prized cabinet woods. Hard, smooth texture. The deep color reads bold in any room and pairs especially well with matte-black or aged-bronze hardware.
Light pinkish-brown when freshly cut, deepening to a rich reddish-brown patina with age and light exposure. Stable, close-even texture with a generally straight grain. Synonymous with fine furniture and heirloom cabinetry. One of the most beautiful woods as it ages.
Pale, creamy white to light tan with a fine, uniform texture and generally straight grain. Hard and dense, with a clean, bright look that suits modern, Scandinavian, and minimalist interiors.
Ranges from pale pink to reddish-brown, often with dramatic dark reddish-brown streaks. Straight to interlocked grain of medium-to-coarse texture. Color deepens beautifully with age. A classic of traditional and transitional interiors — the wood that built fine boats and Georgian furniture alike.
Reddish-brown to purplish-brown with interlocked and sometimes wavy grain that produces stunning figured patterns — pommele, quilted, mottled, wavy, beeswing, and fiddleback. Related to mahogany but even more visually dramatic.
Light brown with a distinctive pinkish-reddish tinge. Straight-grained and coarse-textured with a pronounced, open grain pattern. One of the most popular and recognizable American hardwoods — classic, warm, and familiar. Pairs well with traditional and craftsman-style interiors.
Light to medium brown with an olive or yellowish tint — slightly cooler and more refined than Red Oak. Straight-grained with a tighter, less porous ray pattern that gives it a smoother, more subtle figure. Strong and beautiful; excellent for both traditional and modern interiors. The state tree of Connecticut, Illinois, and Maryland.
Yellowish-white to reddish-brown with a straight grain, medium texture, and the characteristic knots that give it its rustic, cabin-inspired character. Native to North America and a staple of lodge, farmhouse, and country aesthetics. Lighter and softer than hardwood species, with a warm, lived-in quality that no painted finish can replicate.
Technically a grass, not a wood, but machines and finishes beautifully. Light golden-tan with a fine, linear grain and a remarkably clean, consistent surface. Extremely hard and dense — harder than most North American hardwoods — and one of the most sustainable materials available. Modern and natural at the same time.
Plain medium-density fiberboard with no wood veneer — a smooth, uniform, paint-ready surface. Ideal if you want to paint or prime the plate to match your wall exactly, or if you want a completely clean laser-engraved design without wood grain variation. Consistent, flat, and takes paint or ink beautifully.
Switch & Outlet Types — Definitions
Choosing the right cover starts with knowing which device is in your wall. The terms below follow standard North American electrical nomenclature.
Toggle Switch
The classic flip switch — a small rectangular lever that rocks up and down to turn circuits on and off. This is the most common light switch in homes built before the 1990s. The paddle is narrow and sits in a slot opening on the plate.
Opening: 13/32" W × 15/16" HDecora / Rocker Switch
A wide, flat rectangular paddle that rocks on a center pivot — you press the top to turn on, the bottom to turn off. Also called a "rocker switch." The Decora name is Leviton's trademark but is used generically in the industry. Most new residential construction uses this style.
Opening: 1‑5/16" W × 2‑5/8" HDuplex Outlet (Standard Receptacle)
The familiar two-plug wall outlet. The cover plate has two large rounded openings — one per receptacle — through which the outlet face is visible. The "duplex" refers to the two receptacles stacked in a single gang. The standard 15A or 20A household outlet found in virtually every room.
Two rounded openings; single center mounting screwQuad Outlet (2-Gang Duplex)
A 2-gang plate covering two side-by-side duplex outlets — four receptacles total. Common at workbench stations, entertainment centers, kitchen counters, and anywhere high plug density is needed. Each gang uses the same standard duplex cover opening.
Four octagonal cutouts (2×2 grid); two center mounting screwsGFCI Outlet (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter)
A safety outlet required by code in bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and outdoor locations. Recognizable by the two rectangular TEST and RESET buttons between the plug slots. Its body is taller and blockier than a standard duplex — the face of the device itself fills almost the full gang opening. Requires a Decora/rocker-size plate opening.
Plate opening (same as Decora): 1‑5/16" W × 2‑5/8" HDecora / Rectangular Outlet
A modern outlet style where the two receptacles are arranged on a wide, rectangular face — the same footprint as a Decora rocker switch. Common in new construction and renovations. Sometimes called a "spec-grade" or "tamper-resistant" outlet. Uses the same plate opening as a Decora switch or GFCI.
Opening: 1‑5/16" W × 2‑5/8" HBlank Plate
A cover with no openings, used to close off an electrical box that is no longer in use. Also used as part of a multi-gang configuration to fill unused positions. No device cutout — just a flat panel.
No opening — full panelRJ-45 / Ethernet Jack
A wall plate opening sized to accept a keystone snap-in module for Cat5e, Cat6, or Cat6A Ethernet wiring. The rectangular slot holds a standard 8P8C (RJ-45) port insert. Used for structured home-wiring installations — cleaner and more permanent than surface adapters or hanging cables.
Opening: approx. 15 mm W × 21 mm H (keystone standard)Coaxial Cable (TV / Antenna)
A plate with a single round hole sized for an F-type coaxial connector — used for cable TV, satellite, or antenna runs. The coax cable end threads directly through or onto a fitting that passes through the hole. Found in living rooms, bedrooms, and home theater setups anywhere a TV or antenna signal is distributed.
Opening: 5/8" diameter (F-connector standard)Rotary Dimmer Switch
A dimmer switch controlled by a rotating knob rather than a slider or rocker paddle. The plate has a small square opening through which the knob shaft protrudes. Common in older homes and in specialty lighting applications where a traditional rotary feel is preferred. Uses the same screw spacing as a standard toggle switch plate.
Opening: approx. 7/16" sq. (square, toggle gang spacing)Plate Sizing Reference
The term "gang" refers to the width of the plate — specifically, how many devices it covers side by side. All standard plates are the same height; only the width changes with each gang. Opening sizes and screw positions remain constant regardless of the overall plate size.
Standard Plate Height
All standard switch plates are 4-1/2" tall (4.5" / 114.3 mm) and approximately 5/32" deep (0.16" / 4.0 mm).
Standard Plate Widths by Gang Count
| Gangs | Industry Standard Width | VARO Width | Width (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-gang | 2-3/4" (2.75") | 2-3/4" (2.75") | 69.9 mm |
| 2-gang | 4-9/16" (4.5625") | 4-5/8" (4.625") | 117.5 mm |
| 3-gang | 6-3/8" (6.375") | 6-3/8" (6.375") | 161.8 mm |
| 4-gang | 8-3/16" (8.1875") | 8-3/16" (8.1875") | 208.0 mm |
| 5-gang | 10" (10.0") | 10" (10.0") | 254.0 mm |
| 6-gang | 11-13/16" (11.8125") | 11-13/16" (11.8125") | 300.0 mm |
Note: Our 2-gang plates measure 4-5/8" wide — 1/16" wider than the common industry standard of 4-9/16". Both will cover a standard 2-gang electrical box. If you are replacing an existing plate and the fit is critical, measure your current plate before ordering.
Device Opening Sizes
| Device Type | Opening Width | Opening Height | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toggle switch | 13/32" (0.406") | 15/16" (0.937") | Classic flip-style switch |
| Decora / Rocker / GFCI / Rectangular outlet | 1-5/16" (1.312") | 2-5/8" (2.625") | All "wide" modern devices use this cutout |
| Duplex outlet (each slot) | 1-11/32" (1.343") widest | 1-1/8" (1.125") | Two per gang; slots spaced 1-17/32" center-to-center |
| Despard | 29/32" (0.906") widest | 11/16" (0.687") | Stacked tandem/interchangeable devices |
| Push button (pair) | 9/16" each | — | Spaced 15/16" center-to-center |
| RJ-45 / Ethernet keystone | 15 mm (0.591") | 21 mm (0.827") | Accepts standard keystone snap-in insert |
| Coaxial cable (F-type) | 5/8" diameter round (0.625") | Round hole; F-connector passes through | |
| Rotary dimmer | approx. 1-3/16" diameter round | Round opening for knob shaft; toggle gang spacing | |
Gang-to-Gang Spacing
Device openings are spaced 1-13/16" apart, center to center, from one gang to the next — this is standard across all manufacturers.
Screws & Hardware
All North American switch plates mount using 6-32 machine screws (thread size #6, 32 threads per inch). Screw length and hole spacing vary by device type:
| Device Type | Screw Hole Spacing (center-to-center) | Standard Screw Length |
|---|---|---|
| Toggle, single round outlet, push button | 2-3/8" | 1/2" |
| Decora / Rocker, GFI/GFCI, Despard | 3-13/16" | 5/16" |
| Blank, cable/phone/low-voltage (new style) | 3-9/32" | 1/2" |
| Duplex outlet | Center-mounted (single hole) | 1/2" |
Screw holes are 5/16" across at the top, tapering to 3/16" at the bottom — this keyhole shape allows plates to hang on the screw before tightening.
Our decorative outlet screws use the same 6-32 thread and are designed to be a drop-in replacement for the standard slotted screws that come with your devices. They add a finished, cohesive look that inexpensive screws can't provide.
How to Order
Each plate is made to order. Here's how to get exactly what you need:
- Choose your configuration — Select the listing that matches your gang count (1-gang, 2-gang, etc.) and device type (toggle, Decora/rocker, duplex outlet, GFCI, RJ-45, coaxial, etc.).
- Select your wood species — Choose from the wood options listed in the product. Each species has a unique grain, color, and character — see the Wood & Materials section for details.
- Specify your screw finish — Decorative screws are included with every order. Leave a note at checkout with your preferred finish (brass, antique brass, black, silver/chrome, dark brown, white, and ivory). If no preference is noted, we will ship antique brass by default.
- Add any special notes — Need a specific quantity, a mix of configurations, or something custom? Message us before or after ordering and we'll work it out.
Questions before you buy? Send us a message — we're happy to help you find the right combination for your space.
Installation & Care
Installation
Turn off power at the breaker before removing your existing plate and installing the new one. This is a simple safety step — flip the breaker for that room and verify the switch or outlet has no power before you begin.
VARO plates install just like any standard light switch or outlet cover — no special tools or wiring required. Use your existing screws, or use the decorative screws included with your order (specify your preferred finish at checkout).
Care
Once installed, simply dust or wipe gently with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners or soaking the wood — moisture is the main enemy of any wood finish. The pre-finished surface holds up well to normal use; if the finish becomes dull over time, a light coat of furniture wax can restore the look.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which type of cover I need?
Look at your existing switch or outlet. If it's a small flip lever, that's a toggle. If it's a wide, flat paddle, that's a Decora/rocker. If it has TEST/RESET buttons, that's a GFCI. If it has two sets of plug slots, that's a duplex outlet. Match the cover opening to the device — not to the box or the old plate.
Will this fit my existing electrical box?
Yes. Our plates are sized to standard single-gang and multi-gang electrical boxes. The screw hole spacing follows NEMA standards used by all major device manufacturers (Leviton, Lutron, Eaton, Pass & Seymour, etc.).
Can wood covers be used in bathrooms or kitchens?
We recommend them for dry locations. In areas directly adjacent to a sink or shower, consider using a GFCI-protected circuit and avoiding direct water contact with the plate. The pre-finished surface resists minor humidity, but prolonged moisture exposure will affect any wood product.
How do I install and care for a wood switch plate?
See the Installation & Care section above for full details. Short version: turn off power at the breaker before swapping plates, use the included decorative screws (specify finish at checkout), and clean with a soft dry cloth — no harsh cleaners or soaking.
What does "1/8-inch panel" mean for the cover thickness?
The wood panel itself is 1/8" (about 3mm) thick. When installed, the plate sits slightly proud of the wall just as standard metal or plastic plates do. The backing plate option adds a second 1/8" layer for additional depth and a more architectural, shadow-line look.
Are these plates rated for electrical use?
Wood switch plates are decorative covers, not structural electrical components. They serve the same function as plastic or metal plates — covering the junction box opening — and are used safely in homes across the country. They carry no electrical load and do not contact live wiring when installed correctly.