How to Patch a Hole in Drywall

Fix wall holes from nail size to large damage

⚡Quick Answer

Small holes: spackle, dry, sand, paint. Medium: mesh patch + joint compound (3 thin coats). Large: cut square, add backing, fit new drywall.

Apply spackling paste with putty knife. Let dry (check product time). Sand smooth. Prime and paint.

💡Fill slightly proud - spackle shrinks when drying.

Use a self-adhesive mesh patch. Stick over hole. Apply joint compound over mesh in thin coats. Sand between coats.

💡Apply 3 thin coats rather than 1 thick one for smooth finish.

Cut drywall into a square around hole. Add wood strips behind for support. Cut new drywall piece to fit. Screw in, tape seams, apply compound.

💡Buy a drywall repair kit - includes everything you need.

Once compound is dry and sanded smooth, apply primer over repair area. Paint to match wall.

💡Without primer, the repair will show as a different sheen.

Lightweight: 30 min - 1 hour. Regular: 24 hours. Check it's fully dry (white, not gray) before sanding.

For tiny nail holes temporarily, yes. But spackle is cheap and works much better.

Feather compound 6-8 inches beyond hole. Sand smooth. Prime before painting. Use same paint as wall.

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