Spacing

• Studs should be spaced 16 inches apart on center. Because of the thickness of the wood, the first stud should be placed 15 1/4 inches from the end. This ensures that the sheathing will land exactly in the center of the fourth stud. Some studs can be spaced 24 inches apart if the wall will not be load bearing.
  
  

Preparation

• Before cutting the studs and assembling the wall, make sure you draw everything in chalk on the floor, including the locations of studs, doors and windows. This allows you to visualize everything in a concrete way and make any changes.
  
  

Considerations

• Although you can save money on a non-load-bearing wall by spacing the studs 24 inches apart instead of 16 inches apart, this type of wall is not as sturdy. The drywall, especially if it is thin, can sometimes move when you push it or lean on it.