Hey everyone, I'm a first-time homeowner (31F) living alone, and I've hit a wall (pun intended!) with patching up some minor holes in my smooth walls after removing anchors and screws. I've tried following various tutorials and reading up on the topic, but I still can't get my patches to blend in smoothly with the rest of the wall. There's always a noticeable spot that just stands out. Could I be over-sanding before I paint? I'm really looking for some advice to make this look better!
4 Answers
I find it helps to paint the entire wall if I'm fixing a few spots. Even if you're using the same color, new paint can dry differently. Also, make sure you’re sanding enough. I used to under-sand spots and it showed.
Have you checked if it’s a texture or sheen issue? If you notice lumps or uneven sheens after painting, that can also indicate an issue with the application process or the paint itself. Each problem requires a different fix!
One tip is to dimple the hole slightly before filling it. Try using the edge of your putty knife to tap the area gently; this creates a small crater that helps the compound blend better. Also, make sure to apply very light coats of the compound—multiple thin layers are way better than a couple of thick ones!
You might want to skim the area and feather it out about 10-12 inches around the patch. This really helps to hide any bumps. Also, check out Vancouver Carpenter on YouTube for some great drywall tips!
Thanks! I’ll check him out for sure!
Oh, I’m definitely a bit heavy-handed with the compound! I’ll definitely try the lighter coats. Thanks!