Patch nail holes and small drywall holes

Patching is the most useful wall skill there is, and the easiest to learn. The secret is thin coats and patience, not thick globs.

Nail holes and dents

1. Press a little lightweight spackle into the hole with a putty knife
2. Scrape the knife flat across so almost nothing is left on the surface
3. Let it dry (lightweight spackle often dries in under an hour)
4. Sand lightly with a fine sanding sponge and wipe off the dust
5. Prime the spot, then paint

Holes up to about 4 inches

1. Trim loose paper and crumbs from the edges
2. Stick a self-adhesive mesh patch over the hole
3. Spread a thin coat of joint compound over it, feathering out a few inches past the patch
4. Let it dry, sand lightly, then add a second, wider thin coat
5. Sand smooth, prime and paint

When it's bigger

Holes larger than a hand need a piece of new drywall screwed to backing. It's a good second project once small patches feel easy.

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