Wood & Acrylic Switch Plates
& Outlet Covers

Custom laser-cut wood and acrylic switch plates and outlet covers. Made to order in Massachusetts.

What We Make

Every plate is cut to order on our laser. Most orders ship within 5 business days. Custom configurations just need a message.

Wood Switch & Outlet Plates

Laser-cut from real wood veneer over a flat, stable MDF core — walnut, cherry, maple, oak, and more. Fits standard US electrical boxes. Replaces your existing plastic plate — take the old one off and screw this one on.

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Acrylic Alternatives

Not a wood person? We also cut plates from clear, frosted, or colored acrylic. Great for modern interiors or anywhere you want a translucent look. Same sizes, same cut quality.

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Backing Plates

Need to cover where the outlet box sits proud of the wall? Our backing plates are cut to bridge the gap cleanly. Available in standard sizes or custom dimensions. Made of 1/8" material that sticks right onto your VARO Industries plates.

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Decorative Screws

The finishing touch. Brass-slot or antique-style decorative screws that complement the wood grain instead of fighting it. Sold in sets of 8, or also included with your switch plate order.

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Switch Guards & Locks

Stop a switch from getting flipped by accident. Our laser-cut toggle switch guards mount under your existing plate screw to lock a switch on or off — ideal for freezers, garbage disposals, aquariums, sump pumps, and holiday lights, plus childproofing and "do not turn off" switches. Three designs — Pivot Guard, Lockout Bar, and Slide Guard — in real wood or any of our acrylic colors.

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Wood Species

Every plate is real wood veneer — no printed faux-grain — on both faces of a flat, stable MDF core. Each species behaves differently on the laser, so cut quality and edge color vary slightly by species.

Birch wood grain
Birch
Pale Cream / Off-White

One of the lightest North American hardwoods. Nearly white to pale cream with a fine, subtle grain. Exceptionally clean look — great for Scandinavian or minimalist interiors.

Basswood wood grain
Basswood
Pale Blonde, Nearly Grainless

Creamy white to pale straw with almost no visible figure. The softest wood we cut, so it engraves deep and dark with excellent contrast — the pick when the design matters more than the grain.

Maple wood grain
Maple
Light Creamy Blonde

Clean, light tone with subtle grain. Works well in bright spaces or modern interiors. Takes engraving crisply for high-contrast designs.

Hickory wood grain
Hickory
Light Cream with Color Variation

One of the hardest domestic species. Dramatic color variation within a single board — pale sapwood to warm tan heartwood. Bold, rustic character that stands on its own.

Knotty Pine wood grain
Knotty Pine
Light, Rustic, Knotted

Light blonde tone with prominent knots and swirling grain. Distinctive rustic character — right at home in cabins, farmhouses, or any space that leans country.

Bamboo grain
Bamboo
Light, Fine-Grained

Technically a grass, but cuts like a hardwood. Light, consistent grain, eco-friendly sourcing. Good pick for natural or biophilic design schemes.

Clear Alder wood grain
Clear Alder
Warm Amber Tan

"Clear" means knot-free. Light amber to soft reddish-tan with an even, fine grain. Often compared to cherry but lighter in tone — a great mid-range wood that stains beautifully.

White Oak wood grain
White Oak
Cooler, Grayish-Brown

Similar grain pattern to red oak but with a cooler, taupe-gray cast. Trending in contemporary interiors. Pairs well with matte black hardware.

Red Oak wood grain
Red Oak
Medium, Prominent Grain

Classic hardwood with bold, open grain. Warm amber tone. A great match if your existing trim or floors are oak — blends right in.

Aromatic Cedar wood grain
Aromatic Cedar
Warm Reddish-Brown, Knotty

Eastern red cedar with its signature scent and striking contrast between reddish-brown heartwood and creamy white sapwood. Naturally rot-resistant. Every piece is uniquely patterned.

Cherry wood grain
Cherry
Warm Amber-Brown

Elegant warm tone that deepens and reddens with age. Fine grain, smooth surface. Pairs well with traditional and transitional interiors.

Sapele wood grain
Sapele
Ribbon-Striped Reddish

African hardwood with a striking interlocked grain that produces a ribbon-stripe figure. Similar tones to mahogany with more visual complexity.

Mahogany wood grain
Mahogany
Deep Reddish-Brown

Classic cabinetry wood with a straight, fine grain. Deep red-brown tones and a naturally smooth surface. Rich and formal without being heavy.

Walnut wood grain
Walnut
Rich Warm Brown

Rich, deep grain with natural variation — tone runs from warm mid-brown to near chocolate depending on the board. The premium choice — looks great in modern, mid-century, and rustic spaces alike.

MDF smooth surface
MDF / Paintable
Neutral, Smooth Surface

No wood grain — perfect if you want to paint to match your wall color exactly. Smooth, consistent surface holds paint well.

Exotic & Specialty Species

These woods are available by request — they're not always in stock but we can source them. If you see something you like, send us a message and we'll let you know lead time and pricing.

Plywood — Real Wood Veneer, Single-Sided

Gray Elm wood grain
Gray Elm
Grayish White, Subtle Grain

Light-toned with a distinctive grayish-white hue and interlocked grain. Quieter than red elm — works well in modern or Scandinavian-influenced spaces where you want wood texture without a strong color statement.

Ash Quartered wood grain
Ash (Quartered)
Light Brown, Tight Straight Grain

Quartersawn ash reveals a particularly clean, straight grain pattern. Light to medium brown with a consistent, fine texture. Strong contrast between light and dark growth rings — bold without being flashy.

Lacewood Quartered grain
Lacewood (Quartered)
Reddish-Brown with Silver Fleck

One of the most visually striking woods available. Quartersawing exposes the large medullary rays as silvery, lace-like flecks against a reddish-brown background. No two pieces look the same.

Birdseye Maple grain
Birdseye Maple
Creamy White with Eye Figuring

A rare figure in hard maple — tiny, swirling "eyes" scattered through a pale creamy grain. Highly sought after for its unusual texture. Light and elegant, with a lot going on up close.

Black Limba grain
Black Limba
Golden Brown with Dark Streaks

Light golden to tan base with dramatic gray-to-black streaks and veins running through the grain. The dark figuring is unpredictable — each piece has a completely different character. A showstopper in the right space.

Jatoba wood grain
Jatoba
Deep Reddish-Orange Brown

Also called Brazilian Cherry. Dense, hard, and rich — a warm reddish-orange that deepens significantly with age and light exposure. Extremely durable. Strong visual presence that commands attention.

Santos Rosewood grain
Rosewood
Medium Brown, Dark Streaked

Santos Rosewood — a sustainably sourced alternative to endangered true rosewoods. Medium to dark brown with irregular darker streaking and a naturally oily feel. Dense, fine-grained, and rich in character.

Teak wood grain
Teak
Golden Brown, Oily Surface

The classic premium hardwood — golden to medium brown with a slightly oily feel and coarse, straight grain. Naturally weather-resistant and dimensionally stable. A familiar, prestigious material that reads as quality immediately.

Anigre Quartered wood grain
Anigre (Quartered)
Light Yellowish-Brown, Pinkish Hue

Pale yellowish-brown heartwood, sometimes carrying a soft pinkish tint that darkens gently with age. Quartersawing brings out a clean, straight grain with the occasional mottled figure. Light and understated — a calm choice for bright, modern rooms.

Cypress wood grain
Cypress
Pale Yellowish-Brown, Straight Grain

Light yellowish-brown with nearly white sapwood and a straight, medium-to-coarse grain. Some sheets show scattered dark "pecky" pockets from natural figure — a prized, rustic character. Warm and casual, with an easygoing coastal feel.

Eucalyptus Quartered wood grain
Eucalyptus (Quartered)
Salmon Pink to Reddish Brown

Ranges from a lighter salmon pink to a deeper brownish red, often likened to Black Cherry or Honduran Mahogany. Straight, even grain with a medium texture. The color deepens beautifully with age — rich and warm without reading as heavy.

Afromosia wood grain
Afromosia
Golden Brown, Fine Even Grain

Also known as African Teak. Yellowish to golden brown heartwood, occasionally with a reddish or olive cast. Fine, even texture with an interlocked grain that gives a subtle ribbon figure. A durable, refined alternative to true teak.

Solid Wood — Finished on Both Sides

Solid basswood grain
Basswood
Pale Blonde, Nearly Grainless

Creamy white to pale straw with almost no visible figure. Soft enough to engrave deep and dark — the pick when the design should carry the plate, not the grain.

Solid spruce grain
Spruce
Pale Straw, Tight Straight Grain

Very light, with the fine parallel lines luthiers build guitar tops from. Quiet and orderly — a cleaner alternative to knotty pine when you want light wood without the rustic read.

Solid poplar grain
Poplar
Pale Tan, Green Cast

Light cream to tan, often with an olive-green streak through the heartwood. Genuinely unusual coloring, and it takes paint or stain as readily as it wears bare.

Solid maple grain
Maple
Light Creamy Blonde

Clean, light tone with subtle grain. Works well in bright spaces or modern interiors, and takes engraving crisply for high-contrast designs.

Solid clear alder grain
Clear Alder
Warm Amber Tan

Knot-free with an even, fine grain and a warm honey-tan cast. Lighter than cherry but with the same soft, friendly warmth.

Solid white oak grain
White Oak
Cooler Grayish-Brown

A taupe-gray cast rather than oak's usual orange, with tighter grain than red oak. The current favorite in contemporary interiors, and a natural match for matte black hardware.

Solid red oak grain
Red Oak
Warm Amber, Open Grain

Bold, open grain with a warm amber tone — the classic American oak look. The easiest species to match against existing oak trim and floors.

Solid cherry grain
Cherry
Warm Amber-Brown

Fine, smooth grain in a warm reddish-amber that darkens and deepens with age. A plate cut today will not look quite the same in five years — in a good way.

Solid mahogany grain
Mahogany
Golden Reddish-Brown

Straight, fine, remarkably even grain in a warm golden-red brown. Rich and formal without reading heavy or dated.

Solid sapele grain
Sapele
Ribbon-Striped Reddish Brown

African hardwood with a ribbon-stripe figure that shifts light and dark as you move past it. More visual complexity than mahogany at a similar tone.

Solid lacewood grain
Lacewood
Coppery with Silver Fleck

Warm copper-brown covered in a dense lattice of pale medullary flecks — the closest thing to a printed pattern that grows on a tree. Nothing else on this page looks like it.

Solid bubinga grain
Bubinga
Deep Rose-Red, Dark Streaks

Dense African hardwood in a deep rose-red shot through with darker purple-brown streaking. Heavy, hard, and considerably more dramatic than cherry.

Solid padauk grain
Padauk
Vivid Orange-Red

The brightest wood we stock — a genuine fire-engine orange-red straight off the saw. It mellows toward a deep reddish-brown over a year or two; keep it out of direct sun to slow that down.

Solid walnut grain
Walnut
Rich Warm Brown

Rich, dark grain with natural variation from board to board. The premium default — it suits almost any room and never looks like it is trying.

Acrylic Colors & Finishes

Prefer a modern, high-gloss look? We also cut plates from cast acrylic in a wide range of colors and finishes. Each color is offered in one or more finishes — [M] Matte, [G] Gloss, and [T] Transparent (see-through). Don’t see a shade you want? Our suppliers carry hundreds — just ask.

Clear
Transparent [T]

Crystal-clear, glass-like transparency with a high-gloss surface. Blends into any wall or lets your paint color show straight through.

White
Matte, Gloss & Transparent [M/G/T]

A clean, neutral white in three finishes — soft matte, bright gloss, or translucent. The easy default for any room.

Black
Matte, Gloss & Transparent [M/G/T]

Deep, rich black in matte, gloss, or smoked transparent. Matte reads sleek and modern; gloss adds a mirror-like shine.

Grey
Smoke Grey, Transparent [T]

A tinted smoke-grey with see-through depth. Understated and contemporary — pairs well with stainless and matte-black fixtures.

Green Glass
Translucent Green, Transparent [T]

A soft seafoam-green translucency reminiscent of vintage glass. Adds a subtle pop of color while still letting light through.

Yellow
Opaque Lemon, Gloss [G]

Bright, cheerful opaque yellow with a glossy face. A bold accent for playrooms, studios, and creative spaces.

Clementine
Warm Orange, Matte [M]

A warm, saturated orange with a smooth matte finish that hides fingerprints. Vibrant without being glossy.

Cherry
Cherry Red, Matte [M]

A rich cherry red in a soft matte finish. Classic and bold — a statement plate for kitchens and accent walls.

Shamrock
Emerald Green, Matte [M]

A deep emerald green with a velvety matte surface. Jewel-toned and grounded — great with wood or brass accents.

Teal
Teal, Gloss [G]

A vivid blue-green with a glossy shine. Coastal and fresh — a favorite for bathrooms and beachy interiors.

Lapis
Deep Blue, Matte [M]

A deep lapis blue with a matte finish. Bold and moody — pairs beautifully with warm metals and dark walls.

Baby Blue
Soft Light Blue, Gloss [G]

A gentle sky-blue with a glossy face. Calm and airy — a natural fit for nurseries and bedrooms.

Blue Neon
Fluorescent Blue, Transparent [T]

An electric, blacklight-reactive blue that glows at the edges. High-energy and eye-catching for game rooms and studios.

Fluorescent Green
Neon Green, Gloss / Transparent [G/T]

A punchy neon green with a glowing, blacklight-reactive edge. The loudest color we carry — pure fun.

Blush Pink
Pastel Pink, Gloss or Matte [G/M]

A soft pastel blush in gloss or matte. Delicate and modern — a subtle warm accent for bedrooms and vanities.

Green Glow-in-the-Dark
Charges in Light, Transparent [T]

Looks like a pale green by day, then glows after the lights go out. Perfect for kids' rooms, hallways, and finding the switch at night.

Specialty, Mirror & Patterned Acrylic

Mirrored, iridescent, and printed-pattern acrylics for when you want the switch plate to be the statement. These come and go with our suppliers’ stock — if you see one you love, send us a message and we’ll confirm availability.

Rose Gold Mirror acrylic sheet
Rose Gold Mirror
Reflective Mirror, Gloss [G]

A true reflective mirror finish in warm rose gold. Glamorous and bright — bounces light around a room like a small accent mirror.

Rainbow Iridescent acrylic sheet
Rainbow Iridescent
Color-Shifting Holographic, Gloss [G]

Shifts through the rainbow as you move past it. A holographic, color-changing surface that never looks the same twice.

Coastal Drizzle acrylic sheet
Coastal Drizzle
Grey & Teal Drizzle, Gloss [G]

A drizzled grey-and-teal pattern over frosted white, like sea spray on glass. Organic — no two sheets alike.

Electric Drizzle acrylic sheet
Electric Drizzle
Blue & Yellow on Black, Gloss [G]

Bright blue and yellow drizzle splashed across a glossy black base. Bold, energetic, and totally unique per sheet.

Buffalo Plaid acrylic sheet
Buffalo Plaid
Black & Red Check, Gloss [G]

Classic black-and-red buffalo check. Cozy and rustic — a favorite for cabins, holidays, and farmhouse interiors.

Green Camo acrylic sheet
Green Camo
Green Camouflage, Gloss [G]

A printed green camouflage pattern. Rugged and playful — great for dens, garages, and kids' rooms.

Leopard acrylic sheet
Leopard
Leopard Print, Gloss [G]

A bold leopard animal print with a glossy face. Fun and fashion-forward — an instant conversation piece.

Midnight Blossom acrylic sheet
Midnight Blossom
Dark Floral, Gloss [G]

Delicate florals over a dark background. Elegant and moody — a soft, decorative touch for bedrooms and vanities.

Rose Starry Sky acrylic sheet
Rose Starry Sky
Rose Starfield, Gloss [G]

A dreamy rose-toned night sky scattered with stars. Whimsical and calming — lovely in nurseries and reading nooks.

Rainbow Stripes acrylic sheet
Rainbow Stripes
Rainbow Stripes, Gloss [G]

Bright rainbow stripes across a glossy sheet. Cheerful and bold — a playroom and classroom favorite.

Mermaid Polka Dot acrylic sheet
Mermaid Polka Dot
Iridescent Confetti, Gloss [G]

Iridescent confetti dots that shimmer and shift with the light. Magical and fun — made for mermaid-themed rooms.

Device Types

We cut openings to fit all standard US device configurations. If you need something not listed, send a message — we can cut almost anything.

Toggle Switch plate diagram

Toggle Switch

Classic flip-style light switch. Single or multi-gang configurations available.

Decora Rocker plate diagram

Decora / Rocker

Large paddle-style switches. The most common modern switch type.

Duplex Outlet plate diagram

Duplex Outlet

Standard two-plug outlet. The most-ordered configuration by far.

Quad Outlet 2-Gang plate diagram

Quad Outlet (2-Gang Duplex)

Two side-by-side duplex outlets — four receptacles total. Great for workbenches, entertainment centers, and kitchen counters.

GFCI Outlet plate diagram

GFCI Outlet

Ground fault outlet with TEST/RESET buttons. Wider opening to clear the buttons.

USB Outlet plate diagram

USB Outlet

Fit modern USB-A or USB-C charging outlets. Opening sized for the wider face plate.

RJ-45 Ethernet plate diagram

RJ-45 Ethernet

Keystone or pass-through ethernet ports. Clean finish for home office or media room wiring.

Coaxial plate diagram

Coaxial

Cable TV / coax F-connector plates. Single or dual port openings.

Blank plate diagram

Blank

No opening — covers unused boxes, junction boxes, or decommissioned outlets cleanly.

Rotary Dimmer plate diagram

Rotary Dimmer

Small square opening for the knob shaft of a rotary dimmer. Uses standard toggle gang spacing.

Standard Plate Sizes

All standard switch plates are 4‑1/2″ tall (4.5″ / 114.3 mm) and approximately 5/32″ deep (0.16″ / 4.0 mm). Heights are consistent across all gangs; width grows with each additional device position.

Standard Plate Widths by Gang Count

Gangs Industry Standard Width VARO Width VARO Width (mm)
1-gang2‑3/4″ (2.75″)2‑3/4″ (2.75″)69.9 mm
2-gang4‑9/16″ (4.5625″)≈4‑5/8″ (4.62″)117.3 mm
3-gang6‑3/8″ (6.375″)≈6‑15/32″ (6.454″)163.9 mm
4-gang8‑3/16″ (8.1875″)≈8‑11/32″ (8.338″)211.8 mm
5-gang10″ (10.0″)≈10‑1/8″ (10.124″)257.1 mm
6-gang11‑13/16″ (11.8125″)≈12‑3/32″ (12.109″)307.6 mm

Note: Our multi-gang plates run slightly wider than the common industry standard — from about 1/16″ wider on a 2-gang to about 5/16″ on a 6-gang. Each still covers a standard electrical box of the same gang count. 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 switch13/32″ (0.406″)15/16″ (0.937″)Classic flip-style switch
Decora / Rocker / GFCI / Rectangular outlet1‑5/16″ (1.312″)2‑5/8″ (2.625″)All “wide” modern devices use this cutout
Duplex outlet (each slot)1‑11/32″ (1.343″) widest1‑1/8″ (1.125″)Two per gang; slots spaced 1‑17/32″ center-to-center
Despard29/32″ (0.906″) widest11/16″ (0.687″)Stacked tandem/interchangeable devices
Push button (pair)9/16″ each—Spaced 15/16″ center-to-center
RJ-45 / Ethernet keystone15 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 dimmerapprox. 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 button2‑3/8″1/2″
Decora / Rocker, GFI/GFCI, Despard3‑13/16″5/16″
Blank, cable/phone/low-voltage (new style)3‑9/32″1/2″
Duplex outletCenter-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.

Screw Finishes

Ten finishes, included free with every plate. Antique brass is the default and also comes in 1″; antique copper and antique silver are 3/4″ long, the rest are 1/2″.

Screw finish guide — black, ivory, stainless steel, white, antique brass, antique bronze, brass, antique copper, brown, and antique silver decorative wall plate screws

How to Order

Each plate is made to order. Here's how to get exactly what you need.

  1. 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.).
  2. Select your wood species — Choose from birch, maple, hickory, knotty pine, bamboo, clear alder, white oak, red oak, aromatic cedar, cherry, sapele, mahogany, walnut, or plain MDF. Each species has a unique grain and character — see the wood species section for details.
  3. Choose your screw finish — Decorative screws are included with every order. Pick your finish from the screw color dropdown in the listing's personalization options: antique brass (default), antique bronze, antique copper, antique silver, brass, black, brown, stainless steel, ivory, or white — see the screw finish guide for all ten. The same options let you choose grain direction (vertical by default) and corner style (rounded by default).
  4. Add any special notes — Need a specific quantity, a mix of configurations, or custom engraving? 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. VARO plates install just like any standard switch or outlet cover — no special tools or wiring required. Use your existing screws, or use the decorative screws included with your order.

Care

Once installed, 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

Real questions from real buyers, answered. Want it all offline? Download the complete Switch Plate Guide (PDF).

The basics

A gang is just the number of device openings side by side on a single plate. A 1-gang plate covers one switch or outlet, a 2-gang covers two side by side, and so on. When you order, count the switches or outlets your plate needs to cover: that's your gang count.

Look at your existing switch or outlet. A small flip lever is a toggle. A wide, flat paddle is a Decora/rocker. TEST/RESET buttons mean a GFCI. Two sets of plug slots is a duplex outlet. Match the cover opening to the device, not to the box or the old plate.

Yes. My plates are sized to standard single-gang and multi-gang US electrical boxes. Screw hole spacing follows the NEMA standards used by all major device manufacturers (Leviton, Lutron, Eaton, Pass & Seymour, etc.).

Yes. Wood switch plates are decorative covers, not electrical components. They do the same job as a plastic or metal plate, covering the box opening, and attach with the same screws. They carry no electrical load and don't touch live wiring when installed correctly. As with any wall plate, install them with the circuit breaker off.

With caveats. Wood and sustained moisture don't mix well, so I don't recommend wood plates directly above a sink or in a shower surround. Most kitchen and bathroom outlet locations are fine. If you're concerned, acrylic is the better choice for high-humidity spots.

Yes. Engraving is a natural add-on with a laser in the shop: room labels, house numbers, logos, decorative patterns. Send me what you'd like engraved and I'll fit it into the design. Engraving is typically a small upcharge depending on complexity.

Choosing the right plate

If the device has a rectangular face, choose Rocker/Decora. "Decorator-style" is the industry-standard opening shared by GFCI and AFCI outlets, USB-A/USB-C charger outlets, smart switches (Leviton, Lutron Caseta, Kasa, etc.), rocker switches, and most dimmers. The opening is 1-5/16" wide x 2-5/8" tall, if you want to measure yours to be sure.

That's the standard household outlet with two oval/round plug faces. If yours is a rectangle (like a GFCI), see the question above.

Send me a photo of your current plate and I'll tell you exactly which option to select. I'd much rather answer a question than have you order the wrong thing.

I can make pretty much any combination. Many common combos (switch + outlet, 5- and 6-gang, blanks) are already in the listings. For anything else, message me on Etsy or through the contact form at varo.industries/contact. Tell me the gang count and which openings you need (toggle, Decora, duplex outlet, etc.), and include a photo or sketch if you have one. I'll confirm the layout and quote a price before cutting anything.

Yes, in 1-gang and 2-gang (and larger on request).

Wood, finish, and color

Pre-finished MDF core plywood with a real wood veneer on both sides. The MDF core keeps the plates flat and stops them warping with the seasons, which solid boards can do. The edges look dark because the laser burns through the wood as it cuts.

That's from the laser. It cuts by burning a very fine line through the wood, which chars the cut edge dark brown to black. It's a natural part of laser cutting, not paint or stain, and it gives each plate a crisp, framed outline. If you'd prefer a lighter edge, a light sanding removes the charring (see "Can I sand or trim a plate myself?").

MDF stands for medium-density fiberboard. It's an engineered wood panel made by breaking wood down into fine fibers, mixing them with wax and resin binders, and pressing them into sheets under heat and pressure. The result is dense, perfectly flat, and uniform: no knots, no voids, and no grain to twist or warp. It's denser and stronger than particle board, more consistent than ordinary plywood, and expands and contracts less than solid wood as humidity changes.

MDF core plywood is a sheet of MDF with a thin layer of real wood (a veneer) bonded to each face. You get the look and feel of real cherry, walnut, oak, and so on, on a core that stays flat and cuts cleanly with crisp, sharp edges.

It's far from a shortcut material. MDF and MDF core panels are used throughout furniture, kitchen and bathroom cabinets, shelving, doors, and millwork. There's a good chance some of the cabinets or furniture in your home are built the same way.

Birch, Maple, Hickory, Knotty Pine, Bamboo, Basswood, Clear Alder, White Oak, Red Oak, Aromatic Cedar, Cherry, Sapele, African Mahogany, Walnut, and Light MDF (paintable, no grain). Specialty and exotic veneers (Lacewood, Birdseye Maple, Teak, Padauk, Bubinga, and more) are available in a separate listing.

Maple is the lightest. Walnut is the darkest of the standard woods.

Close, but every piece is unique. Wood is a natural material, so grain and color vary, even between two plates cut from the same sheet. Screens and lighting also shift color a lot in photos.

Yes, in both color and sheen. Samples are cut from the same pre-finished stock as the plates. Because it's natural wood veneer, expect some color and grain variation, even between two plates. Plates are veneered on both sides, so you can pick whichever face you like better.

They're all laser cut. The regular listings use double-sided, real-wood-veneered MDF core plywood (see "What is MDF core plywood?" below). The specialty woods are either solid wood or single-sided veneered plywood (also on an MDF core). I rarely carry these, so depending on the species they may be in stock or a special order from my supplier.

I can usually identify the wood species from a photo (red oak vs. white oak, for example), but I can't reliably match color from a photo, and I don't do stain matching. The best way to choose is my sample set: a ring of every wood species I offer, so you can hold them up against your space in person.

All of my standard stock comes pre-finished from my supplier, which is a huge time saver. Unfinished wood is a special order. I often have some species (white oak, red oak, maple, walnut) on hand from other projects, and others can be ordered in. Depending on the species, expect a small added cost and about a week of extra lead time. If you just want to paint, choose Light MDF. It takes paint nicely and needs no special order.

Size and fit

About 1/8", roughly the same as a standard plastic plate.

These plates are completely flat. They are cut from flat sheet stock, so unlike plastic plates they have no rounded front edge and no recess on the back. If your switch or outlet sits out from the wall, the plate may sit slightly off the wall. Some folks like that look; for those who don't, there are backing plates (see below).

Standard US sizes. A single plate is about 4-1/2" tall. They are designed to fit standard US electrical boxes and hardware.

Yes, and it's one of my most common requests. About half my orders are custom sizes. Examples: an oversized plate to hide old paint lines or patched drywall, a narrow plate next to a door frame, or a plate trimmed on one side.

  • Custom size, centered opening: use the custom-size listing and enter your width and height in the personalization fields.
  • Off-center openings, odd spacing, unusual devices: message me with photos and measurements. For tricky fits I can mail a cardboard test template first, so you can confirm the fit before I cut the final wood plate.

My designs are built for US boxes and devices. I can make plates for other standards if you can send me exact dimensions and photos. Be aware that international shipping from the US is expensive.

Backing plates are also 1/8" and can be stacked, and I can make a custom 1/4" backing on request.

Backing plates

A backing plate is a second layer cut to the outline of your plate, made from MDF (the same core as the plates), with 3M adhesive on one side. It sticks to the back of the plate to add depth, which closes the gap when a switch or outlet sits proud of the wall. They come in 1/8" (and 1/16" on request) and are sized by gang: 1 for a single, 2 for a double, and so on. A duplex outlet takes a single (1-gang) backing plate.

It's entirely personal preference. Some folks like the plate floating slightly off the wall, some want it tight to the wall, and some don't need one at all because there's no gap. In my own house I only have a few, on the switches and outlets that stick out a little too far for my taste.

The best way to know is to put a plate on and look. If you'd like to check before ordering, try a quick DIY test: cut a rectangle the size of your switch or outlet opening out of a piece of cardboard and slip it over the device. To make it easy, print my true-size cardboard test templates for a toggle, rocker/Decora, and duplex outlet: https://varo.industries/assets/switch-plate-templates.pdf (print at 100% / "Actual size"). If there's a gap at the wall you don't like, order some backing plates.

A hint from photos: if your outlet or switch sits on top of the wall instead of nestled into the electrical box, you'll likely want one.

All backing plates attach the same way, with 3M adhesive transfer tape, so you have three options:

  1. Attached by me. Order them with your covers and I'll attach them before shipping.
  2. Shipped loose. Order them with your covers and attach them yourself as needed (see the video below).
  3. Skip them for now. If you find you need them later, order them and attach them yourself.

They're relatively cheap, a couple of bucks, but making one actually uses a lot of material, and the adhesive itself is quite expensive. So they're entirely an add-on, and it's all up to personal preference: some folks like it with the gap, some without, and some just don't need one because there's no gap. I actually sold these plates for years without backing plates, or even offering them as an option, until a customer reached out, we workshopped it, and now it's a thing.

3M 468MP Adhesive Transfer Tape.

Here's a quick video showing how: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/kdfZoSCGoHQ

Yes, if you decide you don't want it. Just note that the backing plate (not the cover) will probably break when you pull it off, because the 3M adhesive is tenacious! Once it's off, if there's any leftover adhesive residue, use isopropyl alcohol, denatured alcohol, or something like Goo Gone to remove it. Be careful not to soak the cover with whatever you use: apply it to a rag or paper towel and use that to wipe the residue away.

Here's a quick video showing how to work a backing plate off: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/bsIv_7mRn9U

Screws and hardware

Yes, matching screws are included, and I usually toss in an extra one or two. If you're anything like me, you'll lose at least one!

Antique Brass (default), Antique Copper, Antique Bronze, Antique Silver, Brass, Black, Brown, Stainless Steel, Ivory, and White. Choose yours in the personalization options when ordering.

Most are 1/2". Antique Copper and Antique Silver are 3/4". If you need longer screws (common with backing plates or deep-set devices), message me after ordering. I have 1" antique brass screws and will note your order.

Sure. Just ask and I'll include both.

Ordering options

  • Grain direction: vertical (default) or horizontal, i.e., which way the wood grain runs on the plate.
  • Corners: rounded (default, a small 1/10" roundover) or square.

Both are chosen in the personalization section when ordering.

Etsy only lets you attach photos after I've replied to your first message. Send me a quick note, I'll reply, and then you can attach photos. Or email them to [email protected] (check your junk folder for my reply; the domain is a little unusual).

Absolutely. Send me a count of each type (e.g., "11 duplex outlets, 4 single toggles, 2 quad toggles") plus photos of any unusual ones, and I'll put together a single custom order.

Yes. Etsy calculates shipping per order, so if you place more than one, I'll combine them into one shipment and refund the shipping difference.

Yes. Every packing slip has a coupon code for your next order.

Shipping

Most orders ship within 5 business days, often sooner, and a bit longer if I'm working through a backlog or waiting on a particular wood from my supplier. If anything delays your order, I'll message you.

Sorry, I'm not able to offer local pickup. Everything ships, packed carefully so it arrives in good shape.

Yes. Priority international usually takes 6-10 business days; first-class international can take several weeks. Shipping outside the US is costly, often more than the plate itself.

Message me. I'll make you a new one and get it back in the mail. Please send a photo if it arrived broken. If the original turns up later, just let me know.

Returns and problems

Returns and exchanges are accepted for 30 days from receipt on non-custom plates. The buyer pays return shipping, and I refund the purchase price minus the original shipping once the plate arrives back. Please message me first so I know it's coming, then ship it to:

VARO Industries, 679 Washington St., Unit #8-118, South Attleboro, MA 02703

Send me the tracking number if you can. It's a PO box, so it may be a few days after delivery before I can pick it up and issue the refund.

It happens all the time. These listings have a lot of options! Message me and we'll sort it out. If I haven't shipped yet, I can cancel and refund so you can reorder the right item.

Message me with a photo and I'll make it right. Usually that means a fresh plate in the mail right away, and in most cases there's no need to send the original back.

Installation and care

Both faces are real wood veneer, so they can look a lot alike. Look for the VARO logo mark: that's the back, which faces the wall (and where a backing plate attaches). Here's a quick video showing both sides: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/KTkH9CSFTaI

Just like any switch or outlet cover. Turn off power at the breaker, remove the old plate, and screw the new one on with the included screws. No special tools or wiring are needed.

Dust or wipe gently with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid harsh cleaners or soaking the wood.

Yes. The plywood sands easily if you need to take a hair off an edge. Sanding an edge also removes the dark charring left by the laser. For anything more than a light touch-up, I'd rather make you a custom plate at the right size.

Real Wood. Real Craft.

Every plate is cut and finished here in the shop. No drop-shipping, no mass production. If you can imagine it, we can probably cut it.