How to Fix a Hole in Drywall

Patch small to medium drywall holes (fist-sized or smaller) with a clean, paintable finish in under an hour.

1. Clean up the hole

   Remove any loose or crumbling drywall around the edges. For small nail holes, skip to Step 3.

2. Apply a patch

   For holes larger than a coin, place a self-adhesive mesh drywall patch over the hole. Press the edges firmly so it bonds flat to the wall.

3. Spread joint compound over the patch

   Using a putty knife, apply a thin layer of spackle or joint compound over the patch (or directly into small holes). Feather the edges outward so it blends with the surrounding wall. Apply a second coat if needed after the first dries.

4. Sand it smooth

   Once fully dry (usually 1-2 hours), lightly sand with 120-150 grit sandpaper until the surface is flush and smooth to the touch. Wipe away dust with a damp cloth.

5. Prime and paint

   Apply a coat of primer over the patched area to seal it, then paint to match the surrounding wall. Two thin coats of paint blend better than one thick coat.