Patching and Plastering - Repairing A Large Cutout In A Drywall Wall: How ?

Hello,

Have a hole cut in a drywall wall in bathroom that was cut to get at a leaking pipe.
It's about 12" x 8" or so.

I guess the best thing would be to cut a new piece of drywall of approx. the same dimensions to fill up most of the cutout before replastering.

But, there's no stud behind the cutout to nail it to.

So, what's the best way to close up the hole ?

Tape doesn't sound so good, as it's a pretty big opening, I think, to span without some support.

If anyone has done any repair like this, or can offer any fairly specific suggestions (also, re brands of patching compound, and type to use) I would be most appreciative.

Thanks,
Bob

Cut a piece of wood longer than the hole, insert it the wall cavity and pull it tight to the back of the drywall and screw it at both ends. You can then screw your patch piece to the wood. Tape and finish as you normally would.

marks method is tryed and true and often recommended. On holes that approach nearly the size of stud-to-stud (16 inches),I just enlarge the hole to go from center of each stud and screw on the piece and tape and mud.

Thanks for the tips. I will file that away, as I'm sure I will face this soon.